In November 2024, a team of students from our Masters of Public Policy and Global Affairs program (MPPGA) had the honour of representing Global Affairs Canada at the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)’s eighth Commission Meeting hosted in Vancouver. Eleven of our students were recruited as liaison officers to support the commission, granting them the special opportunity to engage with government officials while gaining firsthand involvement in key diplomatic processes.
Global Affairs Canada’s deputy director Marie-Hélène Cantin reflects on the pivotal role of MPPGA students in facilitating the meeting and acting as key team players.
“The professionalism, dedication, and enthusiasm demonstrated by the students was impressive. From their adept handling of logistical tasks to their warm and courteous interactions with their delegations, they were instrumental in ensuring the Commission Meeting’s smooth execution. Their positive attitudes and willingness to step up whenever needed reflected not only their personal qualities but also the high standard of education and professionalism imparted by UBC.”
The students also shared their insights from the invaluable experience with us. MPPGA student Lindsey Eiwanger notes that the event is “easily the highlight” of her first term in the MPPGA program. She remarks on her main takeaways in the following words:
“This experience emphasizes the hands-on learning that the MPPGA program prides itself on, and I learned so much about GAC on the ground, supporting mutually beneficial trade relations between CPTPP members, and demonstrating professionalism through the Liaison Officer position. Finally, I believe that my experience as the Liaison Officer for the Japan delegation enabled me to practice cultural sensitivity and respect through aligning myself intentionally with Japanese business etiquette. This experience will certainly support positive interpersonal relationship formation in the Global Policy Project in Year 2 as I may have the opportunity to collaborate with international partners, where it is critical to appreciate the significance of cross-cultural sensitivity!”
MPPGA student Joel Sawyer also expresses gratitude for his involvement in the event. He writes the following:
“I feel extraordinarily [privileged] to have not only been trusted to serve alongside some of my peers in the UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs program in the Canadian Delegation, but also to perform the duties of Liaison Officer for the Australian Delegation from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I have the utmost gratitude for the Canadian Team for making it all happen. The professionalism shown by my peers was outstanding throughout the commission, and […] it was very much a great pleasure to work with them towards the success of the meeting.”
Check out more photos from the event below:
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