Experience North 2023

Graeme Dick is originally from Sault Ste Marie, ON, and will graduate from Wilfrid Laurier University in June 2023, receiving an Honours Bachelor of Arts with a double major in both global studies and political science. Throughout his undergraduate studies Graeme has formulated a dynamic understanding and interest in the areas of international affairs, political economics, and both domestic and foreign relations.

He will be attending the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs at Carleton University in fall of 2023 with a specialization in either foreign policy or intelligence/ international affairs. In the summer of 2022 Graeme participated in the Stimson Centre's Internship Program, a nonpartisan think tank located in Washington D.C. in which he served as research intern to the President and CEO. Specific projects included research and policy briefings regarding strategic interests of the U.S.-ASEAN Summit, the 14th BRICS Summit, and the negotiation positions of the U.S. and Russia with respect to arms control.

Now as a policy analyst for Northern Policy Institute Graeme looks forward the unique opportunity to put his degree to use in his hometown for the facilitation of sustainable and welcoming policies for Ontario's varied regions. In his spare time Graeme enjoys playing tennis, physical fitness, and watching the European football.

Andrea Javellana is a student at the University of Toronto pursuing her Bachelor of Science degree in Statistics and Conservation Biology. She became interested in data-driven research in demographics, public opinion, and environmental affairs during her studies. Professionally, Andrea has worked in agronomy research, student mentorship, and philanthropy.

Having immigrated from the Philippines, Andrea recognizes the privilege of living in a developed country and hopes to uplift over-looked communities via evidence-based research and policies. In her spare time, Andrea enjoys growing flowers, baking sweets, and watching sports. Although new to Thunder Bay, she hopes to immerse herself in the rich culture and nature of Northwestern Ontario.

Aurora is a recent graduate from Wilfrid Laurier University where she obtained an Honours Double Degree in Political Science and Spanish. Her interest in exploring the intricacies of government policy and cross-cultural communication led her to pursue this degree combination and is now eager to bring her knowledge to Northern Policy Institute.  

Aurora's degree gave her a deep understanding of government policy-making processes and political systems. She is excited to apply her knowledge of political institutions and decision-making to her role as a Research Analyst in Supply Chains. Analyzing complex issues and communicating findings will be skills she looks forward to contributing and improving to NPI's research on supply chain development in Northern Ontario. In addition to academics, she was an active member of student organizations and community clubs focused on humanitarian relief, demonstrating her commitment to social justice and community engagement.

In her free time, she enjoys hiking, playing soccer, and working out. She is excited to bring her policy-related background and passion for research to NPI and contribute to the economic development of Northern Ontario through her work in supply chain analysis. 

Drew Nesbitt recently graduated from Mount Allison University in New Brunswick with an honours bachelor's degree in Political Science. During his time at Mount Allison, Drew worked as a research assistant within the International Relations Department where he contributed to research on decolonizing International Relations education, and he contributed to research on grassroots shared economies focused on tool libraries. In the fall, Drew will be attending the Norman Patterson School of International Affairs at Carleton University where he will pursue a master's degree in International Affairs, specializing in international development policy.

Drew is interested in the ways that different Indigenous and labour movements interact with each other at the intersection of domestic public policy and broader global policy issues. As a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario, together with family connections in the North, Drew strongly desires to contribute to innovative, diverse, and evidence-based thinking in order to help further and support the labour force of Northern Ontario. Drew has lived in a diverse range of Canadian cities across Ontario and New Brunswick and enjoys playing hockey, running, and fishing.

Abigail was born in Kirkland Lake and grew up in Timmins. She holds a B.A. in History from the University of Waterloo and is currently pursuing an M.A. in Global Governance at the Balsillie School of International Affairs. Her graduate research examines modern treaty implementation in Canada from a global Indigenous rights perspective. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, and anything that takes her outdoors to explore the beautiful landscapes of the north. Her favourite hiking spots are the Ghost Range and les Collines Kékéko, both in the Abitibi region.