Life-changing lessons as NorQuest students explore global learning in Zimbabwe

From March 7 to 22, 2025, a group of NorQuest students and faculty embarked on a transformative two-week global learning experience in Zimbabwe, supported by the Government of Canada’s Global Skills Opportunity (GSO) initiative. Led by Mary Stewart and Fungayi Madzonga, the cross-faculty trip brought together 10 students from Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC), Disability Studies (DS), Educational Assistant (EA), and Community Support Worker (CSW) programs.

Partnering with the Catholic University of Zimbabwe (CUZ), chosen for its inclusive values and commitment to community engagement, as well as through an established relationship with NorQuest through Maroro Zinyemba, Dean of the Faculty of Skills and Foundational Learning (FSFL). NorQuest students engaged in field placements at Danhiko Secondary School and early childhood education centres across Harare. “It was challenging to adapt, but incredibly eye-opening,” students said, as they worked alongside local practitioners and integrated Canadian classroom learning into real-world contexts.

Throughout the trip, students built cross-cultural relationships and discovered surprising similarities between Canada and Zimbabwe’s approaches to care, education, and community. “Even though resources and methods were different, the passion for supporting learners and individuals with disabilities was the same,” said Zaji, an ELCC student.

One highlight included a day at Tose Respite Centre, where students served lunch alongside caregivers supporting individuals with complex developmental needs. They facilitated interactive, person-centered activities using sensory materials—a hands-on lesson in empathy, resourcefulness, and creativity.

Mary Lou, from the ELCC certificate program, was inspired by the local approach to behavior guidance and culture-based teaching. “It was fascinating to see how they incorporate heritage learning through play,” she said, now planning to pursue the ELCC diploma.

From professional development to personal growth, the trip was filled with moments of deep reflection. “This trip changed my life. I’ll never see things the same,” said Tyler, the only male student on the trip and a Disability Studies learner.

The faculty in partnership with Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) played a pivotal role in supporting the students’ placements and building experiences abroad, ensuring student outcomes and learning outcomes could be embedded in the Zimbabwean context. At a student exchange hosted by the Canadian Ambassador in Harare, NorQuest students connected with peers from the Institute of Women’s Social Work to discuss women’s rights and children’s rights, education systems, and practicum placement differences.

The journey also included a weekend at Imire Rhino and Wildlife Conservation, where students explored the UN Sustainable Development Goals and reflected on climate action, conservation, and mental well-being—drawing connections between Zimbabwe’s changing climate landscapes and those back home, like fires that affected the town of Jasper, near Edmonton.

Simrit Parmar, Manager of International Projects, shared, “It makes our work more meaningful to hear how life-changing these global opportunities can be. They prepare students for diverse, real-world experiences.”

NorQuest's strategy “We Are Who We Include” strives to create opportunities that support students to participate in an international learning experiences to expand their understanding and help them see themselves as part of a global community. Students returned with an appreciation and deeper understanding of how their work in community settings transcends boundaries and speaks to the universal practices of relationships, communication and the importance of observation to gain understanding.

"Travel is always an eye opening, horizon expanding experience and we truly felt honored to be a part of this and we give huge thank you to our colleagues in the International Dept. and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences leadership team,” shared Mary Stewart, Program Chair of Community Studies Programs.

The trip reinforced NorQuest’s commitment to creating inclusive, career-relevant learning pathways while highlighting the impact of international collaboration. Students returned with broadened perspectives, inspired to share what they learned and to advocate for global citizenship in their communities.