Global Leadership Academy's Visit
AVPN-Global Leadership Academy’s Visit to SangGati in Lucknow.
The Asian Voluntary Philanthropic Network led Global Leadership Academy, known for fostering a dynamic learning environment, seeks to transcend the conventional approach to impact leadership. Rather than merely enhancing skills within the existing Global North-dominated framework, the AVPN Global Leadership Academy (GLA) aspires to delve into the uncharted territories of local contexts and communities in the Global South. In an effort to convert these intentions into tangible actions, GLA professionals recently visited the SangGati Centre in Lucknow, a hub for inclusive transport initiatives addressing the intersection of gender, mobility, and climate change.
The SangGati Centre, an initiative by the Climate Agenda, focuses on amplifying the voices of local women, adolescent girls and LGBTQIA+ communities in shaping a sustainable urban transport network. GLA recognized the significance of understanding grassroots initiatives and aimed to learn from the experiences and journeys of those working on the ground. This visit aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application, offering GLA professionals an opportunity to witness firsthand the challenges and successes of community-driven climate action.
Details of the Visit:
A team of four GLA members was warmly welcomed by the Climate Agenda members and volunteers of SangGati Centre. The genuine hospitality extended to the GLA professionals was evident in the handmade welcome cards presented by SangGati volunteers. Crafted with care, these paper cards symbolized the personal touch and warmth characteristic of community-driven initiatives.
The session commenced with a comprehensive overview of SangGati Centre, outlining its mission, goals, and the communities it serves. The GLA visitors were then encouraged to engage in an open dialogue, prompting rounds of insightful questions that demonstrated their genuine interest in understanding the nuances of the center’s operations. Despite potential language barriers, the SangGati volunteers skillfully facilitated communication, emphasizing the universal language of shared passion for community empowerment.
Positive Engagement and Enthusiastic Learning:
The enthusiasm of the GLA visitors was palpable as they absorbed the intricacies of SangGati‘s inclusive transport initiatives. The session served as a platform for cultural exchange, breaking down barriers and fostering mutual understanding. SangGati volunteers showcased the impact of their work through real-life stories, allowing GLA professionals to connect theoretical knowledge with the lived experiences of the communities they serve.
Impressed by the SangGati Centre’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainability, the GLA visitors expressed their desire to establish ongoing channels of communication. Recognizing the value of continuous learning from grassroots initiatives, they sought ways to stay connected with SangGati‘s activities, fostering a potential collaboration that extends beyond the boundaries of a single visit.
In a notable exchange, the SangGati volunteers expressed their eagerness to understand social problems in the countries of the GLA visitors. This led to a detailed discussion where GLA professionals shared insights into transport-related issues, gender concerns, and livelihood challenges prevalent in their respective countries. This cross-cultural dialogue not only enriched the overall learning experience but also fostered a deeper understanding of the diverse contexts that shape the global landscape of social and environmental issues.
Conclusion:
The GLA Leadership Academy’s visit to the SangGati Centre in Lucknow served as a pivotal moment in bridging the gap between global leadership theories and community-driven climate action. By immersing themselves in the local context and engaging with the SangGati community, GLA professionals not only enriched their understanding but also laid the foundation for potential future collaborations. This visit exemplified the power of experiential learning and the importance of transcending traditional frameworks to create meaningful impact in the dynamic landscape of global climate action.
