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Why Calgary Stampede Is More Than a Rodeo

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We went to Calgary during Stampede week. No, not for the rodeo. (Although we definitely donned some cowboy hats, you can check out the evidence below.) 

For ten days every July, the Calgary landscape transforms into a place where politicians, faith leaders, business executives, and nonprofits are shoulder to shoulder at the same breakfasts and receptions. It’s more than just a moment to see and be seen, it’s a time to coalesce on shared priorities. Here is what happened:  

Opening new doors  

We spent the week moving between political events, faith gatherings, and sector mixers, connecting with a wide range of partners: global health and vaccine organizations, business and industry groups, humanitarian and development nonprofits, a major tech company, provincial health services, and several Members of Parliament. 

We met with student groups who expressed interest want to bring our Global Activist Program to campus.  

Postcards with a purpose 

We closed the week with our Calgary-based Global Activists, handing out postcards for community outreach before they are mailed to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand. It’s the kickoff to our energy campaign with our longtime partner, Engineers Without Borders. See the digital version here

What we’re taking home 

Calgary continues to stand out as an important place for relationship building. The number of decision-makers, organizations, and partners gathered during Stampede makes it a valuable opportunity for engagement.   

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