Hasina Qaderi: “I’m looking forward to learning more about what international development looks like in practice within a Canadian non-profit.” Photo: Tess Sison/CJI
Recent Humber College graduate Hasina Qaderi has joined Canadian Jesuits International (CJI) as part of the Canada Summer Jobs program. She will be helping the organization’s outreach program, which involves education, awareness raising, and advocacy on issues affecting marginalized communities in the Global South.
Hasina, who is Afghan-Canadian, recently completed a post-graduate Certificate in International Development at Toronto’s Humber College after earning an undergraduate degree in Justice, Political Philosophy, and Law at McMaster University, in Hamilton, Ont. “Throughout my studies and work, I’ve developed a passion for community engagement, youth leadership, and creating opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and make a difference,” she said.
Hasina spends her spare time volunteering, staying active, and reading. “I enjoy playing volleyball and have been training in Muay Thai for about four years. I’m also a big reader, I love everything from fiction to books about history, leadership, and global issues,” she said.
CJI asked Hasina some questions related to her summer job at CJI. Excerpts:
What made you decide to apply for a summer job at CJI?
I’ve worked in youth programming and community development, planning events, coordinating volunteers, and building partnerships with schools, municipalities, and community organizations. Those experiences really reinforced my passion for social justice, education, and community impact.
I applied to CJI because I wanted the opportunity to contribute to an organization that’s making a difference through education, advocacy, and global partnerships. The chance to create educational resources, engage young people, and support advocacy initiatives felt like a great fit with both my academic background and my professional experience.
What expectations, if any, do you have about the position. What are you hoping to learn, or what skills are you hoping to acquire at the end of your stint?
I’m looking forward to learning more about what international development looks like in practice within a Canadian non-profit. My studies introduced me to project planning, monitoring and evaluation, and development theory, but I’m excited to see how those ideas come to life through advocacy, education, and partnerships.
I’m also hoping to strengthen my skills in educational content development, public engagement, communications, and advocacy. Most of all, I’m excited to learn from the people around me and gain a better understanding of how organizations like CJI build meaningful relationships with communities and supporters.
What skills are you excited to share with CJI?
I’m excited to bring my experience in youth engagement, program coordination, and community outreach to the team. In previous roles, I’ve coordinated projects with multiple stakeholders, managed volunteers, organized events, and developed educational programming.
My background in International Development has also strengthened my skills in critical thinking, communication, and project planning, and I’m excited to apply those to CJI’s education and advocacy work. More than anything, I enjoy being part of positive, collaborative teams, and I’m looking forward to contributing my energy, creativity, and perspective while learning from everyone at CJI.
