As part of the celebrations surrounding CECI’s 60th anniversary, Karl Brown, former volunteer of the Uniterra Program by CECI and WUSC, was presented with the Rosario Demers Award for his exceptional engagement as a volunteer, as well as his contribution to the promotion of CECI.
After many years working in the fields of finance and information technologies, Karl Brown left his position in the private sector to take on an assignment in Nepal as an advisor in capacity building and entrepreneurship with the Uniterra international cooperation program.
“As an advisor in entrepreneurship and skills development, I was able to design training programs aimed at exposing participants to theories and practices of strategic planning, leadership, communication, project management, career counselling and mental health. I had the privilege of providing training to almost 1000 youth around the country, covering everything from active listening to situational leadership, critical thinking to job interview techniques and proper CV writing,” said Karl.
Karl Brown completed three assignments in Nepal. CECI’s team in Nepal and the partners that worked with Karl say he is as engaged and devoted a volunteer as can be. In the field, Karl spared no effort to achieve and surpass his objectives. He worked relentlessly to help disadvantaged groups such as the dalits, women and youth. Soon after the dreadful earthquake in 2015, Karl got involved with the community in a remarkable display of courage, cooperation and solidarity.
Through the Uniterra program, Karl really made a difference in Nepal by putting his skills, expertise and know-how to good use to help build a fairer world.
“The most rewarding part of my volunteer work has been meeting the youth from various backgrounds and watching them challenge themselves and grow their skills while sharing their personalities, goals, ambitions, drive and experiences. It has been truly inspiring,” said Karl.
Upon his return to Montreal, Karl immediately got involved in CECI’s activities, contributing to the promotion of the organization and working to increase engagement of the Canadian public in cooperation.
The teams who worked with Karl and the judges for the CECI Awards all recognized he was the perfect example of a cooperation volunteer who shares the values of international cooperation, respect, equality and engagement championed by CECI.
To learn more, read Karl’s interview in the “Meet our volunteers series”.
