Social justice is based on the values of fairness, equality, respect for diversity, access to social protection, and the application of human rights in all spheres of life, including in the workplace. We strive to integrate social justice principles throughout our work, from ensuring that our programmes adopt a human rights approach, to ensuring that marginalised and vulnerable people are at the forefront of our work in Canada and abroad, to ensuring that the rights of indigenous peoples are strengthened through our work. Social justice is not just something that is “done to others”, it emanates from the centre of the organisation and includes a commitment to maintaining a diverse staff and Board where women and indigenous people are represented in leadership positions, to maintaining a fair and empowering workplace.
We live in a world where extreme poverty and a lack of access to education, health care, a clean environment, gender equality, human rights and economic opportunities are a reality for many. The challenges of poverty are exacerbated by the HIV-AIDS pandemic, which is having a profound effect on daily life and social and economic development.
We believe that a key part of addressing these challenges is to work with youth and community in Canada, to build lasting relationships with overseas partners and communities, and to advocate for global responsibility. Our approach involves innovative education in schools, engaging the public, overseas exchanges, and community-based international development projects.
Carrying forth a legacy of strong programming over 37 years, VIDEA takes pride in our vibrant Indigenous Knowledge, Youth and Schools, International, Research, and Public Engagement Programs. Our work is carried out across BC, the Yukon and Eastern and Southern Africa by over 100 volunteers who in the last year gave over 10,000 volunteer hours to activities that engaged over 25,000 British Colombians and benefited more than 27,000 vulnerable women and men, girls and boys in sub-Saharan Africa.
VIDEA could not do the work that we do without the tremendous support of our many volunteers! They really do drive our organisation. Two groups in particular are incredibly dedicated and constantly go above and beyond to support projects or programmes that need an extra boost. Kelowna Zambia Partnership and Nelson Area Kaoma Alliance are groups located in the interior of BC who partner with communities in Zambia (through our partner organisation Women for Change) to create sustaining links of friendship and solidarity.
