Western Heads East

Western Heads East is a collaboration between Western staff, students, faculty and African partners using probiotic foods to contribute to health and sustainable development. Largely through probiotic yogurt social enterprises, the program is established with partners in Sub-Saharan Africa in collaboration with local NGOs, universities and medical research institutes to enhance community health, economic development and the empowerment of women.

The program has also begun working in London, Ontario with Youth Opportunities Unlimited and Mistyglen Creameries. In cooperation with our partners, we offer virtual internships on social media, health promotion, business and marketing, and community engaged learning projects. Our partner organizations include:

Program Details

Cohort start dates:

  • Fall: September - December
  • Winter: January - April
  • Summer: May - August

Who can apply?

All faculties are eligible to apply.

  • *Certain placements require students in a specific field of study/expertise. (Completed second year at Western by time of placement.)
  • **Open to graduating students (graduate and undergraduate students can apply)
  • ***Graduate students are NOT eligible for GSO funding.
Special Features
Undergraduate students in fourth year and graduate students (Master’s, PhD) can conduct their theses research in conjunction with the program. Please see your faculty advisor.

Virtual Program Fees

  • $165 Placement Fee
  • $65 Application Fee
  • $200 Program Voluntary Contribution as applicable

Funding eligibility

GSO-Logo_ENG-Blue.pngWestern Heads East is part of Canada's Global Skills Opportunity (GSO) program. Financial support of either $500 or $1,000 is available to support students participating in virtual international internship placements. Applicants and virtual placements must meet all GSO eligibility criteria; placement criteria varies* across programs.

Applicants must be:

    • A Canadian citizen or permanent resident
    • An undergraduate student
    • Registered with any faculty* at main campus**
      • *Inclusive of affiliate students officially registered with a main campus faculty
      • **Inclusive of second-entry programs
    • At least 18 years old
    • In good academic standing
    • Applicants must NOT have previously received GSO funding

Program specific requirements:

  • The program must be between 8 to 12 weeks long.
  • Placement partners must be international (Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzaia) partners
  • Placements with Canadian partners are NOT eligible