Shifting Power: Localizing Leadership and Transforming Development
The push to shift power in global development is gaining traction, but how do we move from conversation to action? This session will explore how coalitions, collaborations, and community-led investments can drive real power shifts, ensuring that decisions, resources, and leadership are centered where they belong—at the local level.
We will discuss proven models for bottom-up localization, decentralization, and sustainable approaches to aid and development. How can philanthropy and international organizations engage in true collective action that prioritizes autonomy and trust? What systems and structures need to change to make power transfer real and measurable? Participants will explore how advocacy and governance reforms can reinforce local leadership, ensuring that those closest to the challenges are the ones shaping solutions.
Key Questions:
What are effective models for decentralizing power and strengthening locally-led development?
How can philanthropy and development organizations restructure investments to ensure real power transfer?
What role do coalitions and collaborations play in catalyzing community-centered development?
How can advocacy efforts shift power dynamics to ensure grassroots voices lead policy and decision-making?
What systemic reforms are needed to make power shifts sustainable rather than symbolic?
This discussion will bring together changemakers to share insights, strategies, and real-world examples of power shifting in action, fostering a more equitable and community-driven approach to development.
Session Co-Leaders:
Amelia Yeo – Philanthropy and Partnerships Director, specializing in inclusive fundraising, civil society partnerships, leadership, accountability, and youth advocacy.
Liby Thomas Johnson – Executive Director of Gram Vikas, leading large-scale community development efforts in India across water, migration, livelihoods, and governance.
Sonja Betschart – Co-Founder of WeRobotics, a social impact organization empowering local expertise with emerging technologies like drones, data, and AI to drive sustainable solutions.
Ben Wrobel – Co-founder and Managing Editor of Proximate Press, covering movements to shift power in philanthropy and impact investing, and co-author of Letting Go.