What’s Possible in Accra, Ghana
What’s Possible is an Experimental Learning Institute and $1M pooled fund presented by the Children’s Rights Innovation Fund (CRIF) in partnership with We Trust You(th). What’s Possible’s aim is to enable a cohort of donors to learn and plan while funding participatory youth-driven grant-making. The purpose was to collaboratively learn how to be a partner and not just a funder when it comes to working with young people. Including collectively funding a youth-driven participatory grantmaking process and helping donors plan for organizational evolution as they learn. The most important thing was for donors to be held accountable and to achieve this, the space provides an opportunity to support the development of youth-led accountability processes to sustain progress beyond the first cohort.
What was the goal?
The goal of the What’s Possible Learning Institute was to enable donors to learn and plan while funding participatory youth-driven grantmaking. The institute aimed to provide a platform for fostering collaboration and learning between Ghanaian youth activists and donors, with a focus on shifting power dynamics and fostering inclusive practices within the philanthropic sector. The overarching goal was to empower donors to be partners, not just funders, in working with young people, and to support the development of youth-led accountability processes to sustain progress beyond the first cohort.
The Tiny Cave Experience
The Tiny Cave book, with its detailed graphics and captivating narrative, served as a powerful tool for exploring themes of risk-taking, empowerment, and transformation. The story of The Tiny Cave revolves around young characters navigating the challenges of the cave, symbolizing a journey from darkness to light. This metaphorical journey mirrored the real-life experiences of many young activists, highlighting the obstacles they face and the resilience they demonstrate in overcoming them.
During the Tiny Cave experience, CRIF constructed a forest precipice and cave set, providing participants with a fully immersive journey into the story. We were able to physically enter the cave, allowing us to relive the experiences narrated in the book. This surreal experience transported us to the precipice, where we were able to reflect on our values and reimagine our approach to grantmaking and youth engagement.
We Trust You(th)’s Role
The We Trust You(th) team played a crucial role during the What’s Possible Learning Institute, serving as a key partner in the event’s organization and implementation. Our contributions included:
- Facilitation: We facilitated discussions and workshops, ensuring that the voices and perspectives of young people were at the forefront of the conversation.
- Youth Engagement: We actively engaged with young activists and participants, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone involved.
- Advocacy: We advocated for meaningful youth engagement and empowerment throughout the institute.
- Collaboration: We collaborated with CRIF and other partners to ensure the institute’s success and to support the development of youth-led accountability processes.
Key Takeaways
One of the most significant takeaways from the institute was the importance of centering youth voices in decision-making processes. Throughout the sessions, young activists shared their experiences and perspectives, highlighting the need for donors to listen and learn from young people directly. This emphasis on inclusivity and collaboration set the tone for the entire institute, creating a supportive and empowering environment for all participants.
Another key takeaway was the impact of storytelling and narrative-building in driving social change. The Tiny Cave book, which was narrated during the workshop, served as a powerful metaphor for the journey from darkness to light, symbolizing the transformational process of addressing challenges and finding solutions. This storytelling approach resonated with many participants, inspiring them to reflect on their own values and goals.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the What’s Possible Learning Institute, we are reminded of the importance of collaboration, learning, and innovation in driving positive change. We Trust You(th) is committed to continuing this journey, working alongside donors and young activists to create a more equitable and inclusive world for all. Together, we can build a future where young people are empowered to lead and create lasting change in their communities.