A year of continued insightful community of practice sessions and further investment in partner leadership
In 2023, the No Means No global network experienced growth and progress, fostering stronger relationships among members through both online and in-person interactions. Rooted in the vision ignited in 2022, we aim to enhance the effectiveness of implementing partners' programs, improve program quality, and collectively combat sexual and gender-based violence. The dedication of partners has indeed resulted in the emergence of a vibrant, interconnected community as we saw 50 partners participate in network activities across all 10 countries where No Means No is implemented.
Zimbabwe-based No Means No partners gather for a meeting, one of many global network activities in 2023.
LEARNING MEETINGS
Learning Meetings in 2023 served as platforms for partners to share their experiences, discussing progress, challenges, and successes to inspire collective growth. These gatherings facilitated the exchange of insights and learnings, covering significant topics such as fundraising strategies; insights into a new collaborative SKILLZ No Means No curriculum; and an introduction to the Technical Performance Quality Assessment (TPQA), a new tool which helps to identify gaps and barriers to quality program management and implementation.
TOPIC DISCUSSIONS
The following Topic Discussions served as curated learning spaces enhancing partner capacity development by featuring presentations from experts.
Implementing and Scaling the No Means No Program in Schools
Moitshepi Matsheng, co-founder of Youth Impact, shared how they are leveraging partnership with the Government of Botswana to scale their ‘Teaching at the Right Level’ program. The key takeaways included understanding how to seize opportunities where problems, policies, and priorities converge; foster a culture of flexible adaptation and innovation with key stakeholders across the program life cycle; pursue demand-driven scaling with a focus on regional champions; and use tailored and timely data as fuel for scaling impact.
Making our Programs Accessible to Persons with Disabilities
South African activist Tshepiso Mokoena shared insights into raising awareness about the challenges faced by D/deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Our newer partners from Mozambique, Light for The World and Girl Child Rights, discussed their efforts to advance the rights of girls with disabilities. Their intersectional approach acknowledges the overlap between sexism, ableism, and discrimination, emphasizing inclusive programs and advocacy to address these issues.
SHARED LEADERSHIP
The establishment of the Global Network Advisory Group marked a pivotal moment, emphasizing shared leadership and collective decision-making to guide the management of the network to ensure activities align with partner needs and interests. We selected a team which collectively represents the diverse membership of the network. The Advisory Group met virtually for quarterly meetings and convened in Johannesburg to strengthen their focus by creating space for constructive reflection on the function, performance, and management of the partner network, in order to articulate a clear work plan for 2024.
LOOKING FORWARD
As we embark on our journey in 2024, we are brimming with excitement and optimism. Our commitment to fostering engagement and exploring innovative avenues remains unwavering as we forge ahead in our mission to combat SGBV. Together, we stand poised to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and create a world where every individual can live free from violence.
