Kate Debaets

Background

About Kate Debaets

I am a recent MSc Capacity Development and Extension graduate with a specialization in International Development. I completed my undergraduate degree in International Development with a focus on Rural Agriculture and Development at the University of Guelph. My Master's research examined women's land rights in Gujarat, India, specifically how The Working Group for Women's Land Ownership (WGWLO) has impacted the community. WGWLO is a formal but unregistered network of organizations and individuals that has been active in Gujarat, India, since 2002. WGWLO addresses the issues of women’s land ownership, gender equality and livelihood. Through my research, I was able to gain an understanding of WGWLO's Legal Clinics, a capacity building tool and educational program, and how they have impacted women's land rights in Gujarat. Through my education, I have developed an advanced understanding of capacity development and how it pertains to international development. I have spent a large amount of my education focusing on community development and the importance of a systems-based approach that includes stakeholders at all levels rather than just stakeholders at the highest levels. My Master's research has allowed me to develop qualitative research skills, including conducting case study research, literature reviews, and scoping analysis. My work with The Literacy Group, a non-profit organization focusing on adult education, allowed me to develop my project management skills. I worked to oversee the development of educational programs, from assisting with the initial sourcing of content to ensuring that the programs were implemented in a timely manner. Through working with The Literacy Group, I was able to support several students with securing jobs, applying for college courses, and completing life tasks such as taxes and banking.