Who We Are

OEDD prepares underrepresented youth, particularly Black youth aged 6–35, for careers in diplomacy, governance, cybersecurity, and global affairs through hands-on programs and mentorship. We emphasize equity, cultural responsiveness, and creating pipelines to high-impact opportunities, with over 500 participants served and 85% reporting new opportunities post-graduation

Preparing Leaders for Global Impact

We equip underrepresented leaders to navigate diplomacy and international systems with confidence. Through mentorship, real-world placements, and guided learning, they gain the skills and relationships to make meaningful impact.

Alumni now working in policy, NGOs, and global business.

Upcoming Important Dates

Mark your calendar for these key events
Saturday, May 30, 2026

Register for Winnipeg Consultation

📍 Location: University of Manitoba (room shared with registrants) 🕐 Time: 12:00–3:00 PM CT 💬 Ages: 18–35, lunch provided Join us at the University of Manitoba for an in-person youth consultation. Open to ages 18–35, this 3-hour session includes lunch and a chance to shape OEDD's national agenda.
Register for Winnipeg
June 6, 2026

Montreal, QC Consultation

📍 Location: Montreal, QC OEDD heads to Montreal for a regional consultation engaging young leaders in conversations on economic development, diplomacy, and Canada's future. Details on venue shared with registrants.
June 9–11, 2026

Big Thinking Summit 2026: Inflection Point

📍 Location: Edmonton Convention Centre, Edmonton, Alberta OEDD participates in the Federation's national summit in Edmonton, bringing humanities and social sciences to the forefront to address Canada's most pressing policy and knowledge challenges.
June 16–22, 2026

Atlantic Canada Consultation

📍 Locations: Moncton, Charlottetown, St. John's A multi-city tour across Atlantic Canada, connecting with youth and community leaders in Moncton, Charlottetown, and St. John's to advance regional dialogue and OEDD's national consultation.
July 17, 2026

OEDD 7th Anniversary

Celebrating seven years of advancing economic development and diplomacy across Canada. Join us in marking this milestone and reflecting on the impact, growth, and vision that drives OEDD forward.
August 30–31, 2026

🗓 Save the Date: The Windsor Convening 2026

📍 Location: Windsor, Ontario From Underground Railroad to Global Recognition. A landmark two-day convening bringing together government leaders, diplomats, academics, historians, youth advocates, and community voices to celebrate Black heritage, cultural memory, and Windsor-Essex's historic role as a final destination of the Underground Railroad — held in recognition of the UN International Day for People of African Descent.
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  • Who we serve

    Black youth and young professionals aged 6–35 across Canada and internationally.

  • Our reach

    Over 500 participants engaged in leadership, diplomacy, and cybersecurity programs.

  • Proven impact

    85% of graduates report securing new opportunities within 12 months of program completion.

  • Our commitment

    Equity, cultural responsiveness, and creating pipelines to underrepresented careers.

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Our Supporters

  • Volunteer

    Share your time and skills with young people who are building futures in leadership, diplomacy, and technology.

    Become a Volunteer 
  • Partner

    Let's work together. By sharing skills and reources, organizations and institutions can help scale impact.

    Explore Partnership 
  • Mentor

    Guide a young person through career decisions, confidence-building, and leadership growth.

    Become a Mentor 

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