Hello folks! My name is Leeza Gheerawo. I am currently completing a Co-op Specialist in International Development Studies and a Sociology Minor in Critical Migration Studies.
In the Fall of 2019, I will be traveling to the Kingdom of eSwatini (Swaziland) for 10 months to work with the Canadian and African Women’s Business’s Alliance’s (CAABWA) Internship Program. The program strives to strengthen women’s trade and support organizations and businesses through promoting access to international markets, with the goal of improving the overall enabling environment for export in African nations. In eSwatini, I will have the opportunity to work with CAABWA’s partners, Swaziland Fair Trade (SWIFT) and Trade Plus Impact (T+I).
For the first half of my placement I will be working with the SWIFT team. SWIFT is a member-based organization providing training, trade and advocacy to support businesses through promoting Fair Trade for the sustainable socio-economic empowerment of producers and communities.
During the second half of my placement, I will be with T+I. This non-profit trade association is a collaborative global community of members from the craft and natural cosmetic sectors, with a focus on women-led social enterprises in Africa and the Middle East.
I am excited to take part in this placement and to explore Southern Africa! Follow my adventures in eSwatini on Instagram: @eswaleezi.
This placement is funded by CAABWA, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarship, and Gallant Y.T. Ho Scholarship in International Development scholarship.