particiaptory process

We designed the co-creation process around anticipated human dynamics — such as past relationships or histories that may have caused reservations — seeking to first build unity, then “do the work.

Build an invested community of collaborators.

Facilitating a co-creation process is about articulating a vision, establishing the parameters, and guiding participants to a shared definition of what success looks like.

Define the “what” and allow creativity around the “how.”

They were also asked to be highly sensitive of their influence in group settings, and to participate by asking clarifying questions rather than offering opinions that might overly sway the conversation.

We framed conversations to draw on the experiences of less-privileged voices, and asked the more-powerful actors to be transparent around their interests and resources.

we asked participants to bring their individual experience to the fore, rather than calling on them as representatives of their organizations.

To do so, we first worked to understand the interests, experiences, and expectations of each co-creator.

[1] Break out of established roles and mindsets.

As with most such gatherings, there were power imbalances within our group, which included both donors and grantees, as well as representatives from the global North and South. To break with traditional hierarchies, we had to force participants out of familiar roles and mindsets.