The Development Institute (The DI) holds strategic engagement with Certified ToP facilitator, Heidi Kolbe.

In an effort to promote the Technology of Participation (ToP) methodology in Africa continent, The Development Institute (The DI), a member of The Institute of Cultural Affairs-International (ICA-I) held a 2-day strategic engagement in March with Heidi Kolbe, a Certified ToP facilitator and representative from the Institute of Cultural Affairs, United States of America (ICA-USA) in Accra.

The ToP facilitation methods program by ICA-I is designed to strengthen the capacities of individuals, organisations, and communities to build and implement innovative plans for action and engagement.

 The meeting’s goal is to provide exposure to and training in facilitation techniques that harness people’s wisdom and energy to create consensus within the group and carry out projects and programs.

The core principles of ICA-I; inclusive participation and deep respect, were the focus of the opening of the meeting.

In order to foster constructive group work, participants participate in ToP facilitation techniques such as the Focused Conversation approach, the Consensus workshop approach, and the Action Planning Process.

In a speech by Heidi Kolbe, she highlighted on the necessity of facilitation and how it can open doors of opportunities to an individual.

She said, “While facilitation requires ongoing work, once you get the hang of it, it can lead to opportunities. You’ll be able to motivate others to collaborate. Having spent more than 50 years in this field, I’ve been exposed to a wide range of options.”

ICA-l is a global network of 35 ICA- related organisations that use participatory facilitation methods in community and organisational development.