On Friday 18 November, 41 community members and stakeholders from Khayelitsha joined us for our very first activation workshop in the area! This workshop marks the official launch of the Nedbank Proud of my Town programme in the community.
A big thank you to the Abalimi Bezekhaya team who have been instrumental in opening doors for us in the community and for their practical assistance in arranging the workshop. We are excited about our shared journey ahead!
Our activation workshops give local communities a voice. This is where our team of urban planners and development specialists gain a better understanding of the real challenges facing the community, strengths and opportunities, and the oft hidden gems in the community who are already making a difference. This is where you speak – and we listen. (And the listening will not end here!)
The information we gather at this interactive DNA mapping exercise makes it possible for our team to gain valuable insight into the well-being of the area. This data goes a long way towards guiding decision-making in collaboration with community stakeholders when it comes to identifying the types of programmes and projects that would have the greatest impact.
Our activation workshops are not only about pointing out challenges and problems, though. These workshops also introduce us to the resources and strengths within these communities.
You see, we do not believe in reinventing the wheel. In every area where we work, we actively seek out partners such as Abalimi Bezekhaya who are already working in an area. We connect, build local networks and explore ways in which, together, we can implement an integrated plan to help bring solutions to challenges facing these areas – a plan that has been developed hand-in-hand with the local community.
Looking ahead, stakeholders who attended the activation workshop as well as role players who have crossed our path since then, will be invited to attend a feedback session where we will be sharing the outcome of the initial workshop. That’s where we present a proposed plan of action to the community – and where the community has the opportunity to give further input and feedback.
If you are a resident, stakeholder or interested party in Khayelitsha and would like more information, please email office@ranyaka.co.za.
Khayelitsha one of 25 communities in 8 provinces across South Africa where Ranyaka is implementing the Nedbank Proud of my Town programme – a first-of-its-kind, holistic community development initiative that is built on the principles of sustainable investment, collaboration, active citizenry and planning with the broader eco system in mind. For more information, visit www.ranyaka.co.za.