Media releases

• Global international development leaders to headline Brock talk

  Tuesday, February 06, 2024 | By Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE: February 6 2024 – R0015

  Top leaders from the World Bank and United Nations will headline a panel at Brock University Friday focused on the global journey towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

  Hosted by Brock’s Goodman School of Business, the event will feature Ferid Belhaj, Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa at the World Bank, and Wafa Aboul Hosn, Chief of Economic Statistics at the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Africa, who will be joined by Goodman Dean Barry Wright and Accounting and Governance Professor Samir Trabelsi.

  The public panel, “Ground-level Delivery: Promoting the UN Sustainable Development Goals for a Livable Planet,” is part of International Development Week 2024 and will examine the critical and evolving contributions of multi-lateral institutions, such as the United Nations, World Bank and International Monetary Fund.

  Brock President and Vice-Chancellor Lesley Rigg says the University is honoured to host this important discussion and welcome both Belhaj and Aboul Hosn to campus virtually.

  “The event is a platform for consequential dialogue and actions towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals,” Rigg says. “This conversation will empower students, faculty and staff to embed the SDG principles in their academic and professional journeys, bridging theoretical knowledge with tangible community impact while affirming Brock’s domestic and global leadership in sustainability.”

  The panel will also explore how people can drive the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals at local and regional levels, highlighting practical and actionable steps communities can take.

  Trabelsi, whose work on sustainability and greenwashing is recognized globally, says Belhaj and Aboul Hosn will offer invaluable insights into advancing the global agenda and the concerted efforts required to tackle these monumental tasks.

  “Both Goodman and Brock are deeply committed to fostering awareness and dialogue in this space,” Trabelsi said. “This initiative is a testament to our dedication to creating a more sustainable and equitable world through education, engagement and strategic partnerships.”

  The event, which will cap off International Development Week, takes place Friday, Feb. 9 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the Goodman Atrium. All are welcome to attend. Register on the Goodman website to save a seat.

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews: 

  * Doug Hunt, Communications and Media Relations Specialist, Brock University dhunt2@brocku.ca or 905-941-6209

  – 30 –

  Categories: Media releases

• New homesharing option available to Brock students through SpacesShared

  Monday, February 05, 2024 | By Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE: February 5 2024 – R0014

  Through a collaboration with SpacesShared, Brock University is introducing a new homesharing option for students that also aims to help address affordable housing challenges in Niagara.

  Launching for Brock students on Monday, Feb. 5, the innovative online platform uses an advanced algorithm — paired with the expertise of SpacesShared’s team of professionals — to match students in need of housing with older adult hosts with space in their home to rent.

  “The SpacesShared platform offers an additional safe and affordable housing option while also providing an opportunity for our students to build meaningful connections in the community they call home,” says Kristen Smith, Brock’s Manager, Off-Campus and Community Experience. “Through this new initiative, students have a chance to have a lasting impact on the lives of older individuals in the region, providing companionship, helping around the house and learning from the person with whom they are sharing a home.”

  In addition to expanding access to affordable and safe housing for students, SpacesShared helps more Canadians to age at home. Students have the option of doing some household chores for their host in exchange for a reduction on their rent.

  “Homesharing is a proven model that not only increases the stock of affordable housing, but also encourages intergenerational relationships, helps older adults age in place and helps alleviate social isolation for both hosts and students,” says SpacesShared CEO Rylan Kinnon. “If you are an older adult in the area and you are interested in homesharing, we urge you to check out our website to see if SpacesShared is a fit for you.”

  SpacesShared has a vetting process for hosts and students, and provides regular check-ins, surveys, support and problem-solving to ensure the homesharing arrangement is a positive experience for all involved. The organization also handles the homeshare agreement and collection of rent.

  For anyone looking to learn more about hosting opportunities, Brock and SpacesShared will be holding community information sessions on Wednesday, Feb. 21 from 11 a.m. to noon in the Goodman Atrium at the University and on Wednesday, March 6 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Thorold Community Activities Group, 131 Richmond St. in Thorold.

  More information about off-campus living and on-campus housing options is available on the Brock website.

  To register for a free account as a SpacesShared host or student, visit spacesshared.ca

  Categories: Media releases