The webinar was hosted by Zutari Namibia and presented by Amelia Visagie, Associate Design Director: Social Sustainability.
The session aimed to offer insight into the ABCD framework used in Zutari and how communities can leverage their inherent assets for sustainable development. This approach is celebrated for its transformative effects on community development. It shifts the focus from needs-based to strengths-based planning, leveraging the framework’s ability to uncover the “hidden gold” within communities.
Amelia Visagie passionately shared how ABCD principles had led to remarkable growth and empowerment in various projects, notably in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape. She illustrated the profound impact of focusing on existing assets rather than deficiencies. This shift in perspective not only mobilises communities but also fosters a sense of ownership and self-reliance.
ABCD stands out by emphasising the assets within a community, such as skills, knowledge, talents, and energies, which can be harnessed to drive their development processes – offering a more appreciative and empowering framework.
Central to the ABCD is the approach that utilises interactive and participatory activities to engage community members, making the development process more inclusive and dynamic. Community members are given the power and decision-making authority to shape their development.
The discussion also touched on the importance of identifying and leveraging community assets that are not limited to physical resources but include social networks, cultural practices, and local institutions that can all collaborate for sustainable growth and development.
The webinar’s insights underscored ABCD’s potential to create sustainable, empowered communities – encouraging communities to start where they are, use what they have and do what they can.
As Zutari continues to champion this approach, the hope is that more communities will realise their potential, unlocking a future where the strengths within drive development.
Watch the recorded webinar below.
