From education to resilient ecosystems, Brock researchers examined how interconnected systems can help break cycles of global poverty during a panel discussion on Wednesday, Feb. 4. as part of International Development Week (IDW).

Moderated by Associate Vice-President, Research Deborah O’Leary, the event gathered Brock community members working at the intersection of international development, sustainability and poverty reduction.

Panelists included Jessica Blythe, Associate Professor in the Environmental Sustainability Research Centre; Liette Vasseur, Professor of Biological Sciences and UNESCO Chair in Community Sustainability; Debora Rios, Instructor in the Department of Earth Sciences; and Jill Grose, Workshop Leader at the Centre for Pedagogical Innovation.

The discussion highlighted research and practice from diverse global contexts, emphasizing ecosystem-based livelihoods, ethical partnerships and experiential learning as ways to disrupt cycles of poverty without deepening inequality.

During a question period, the Panel also reflected on the role universities play in co-creating knowledge with communities while also developing community-driven solutions.

The event was part of Brock’s broader participation in IDW, an annual initiative led by Global Affairs Canada which runs until Saturday, Feb. 7.