This project involved collaborating with Dalberg and the Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) to deliver a comprehensive series of in-person and virtual capacity-building workshops focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) leadership. We worked with 18 grantee leaders and decision-makers, all coming with different levels of DEI experience within their organisations.

Some of the program modules were designed to introduce these leaders to foundational Human-Centred Design (HCD) and DEI concepts, frameworks, and practical applications. We even developed a specific module around community-informed approaches to DEI programming. By drawing on HCD principles, we aimed to equip them with the knowledge and tools to embed DEI into both their leadership styles and their programs. Our activities included ecosystem mapping, which helped leaders visualise their position within their networks, identify key players, and understand what truly helps or hinders effective DEI work. We also facilitated power mapping exercises, assisting leaders in recognising how their own identities—things like gender, age, and race—shape their leadership roles and influence power dynamics. And through storytelling exercises, we guided them on using narratives to connect with their teams, engage stakeholders, and amplify the impact of their DEI initiatives. Read more.