The Voice4Change England Infrastructure and Development Team were invited by Hackney CVS to deliver a workshop on Networking and Partnerships.
The main focus of the workshop was how Networking and Partnerships can be utilised to amplify an organisations reach and impact.
The session was well-attended by 12 engaged participants who represented a cross-section of BME-led organisations based in Hackney.
Infrastructure and Development Officer Sophia Hossain provided an introduction to Voice4Change England, in particular highlighting our Catalyst Programme aimed at supporting BME communities to develop resilence and influence.
Dr. Sharmin Shajahan, Deputy Director, then facilitated the core session on Networking and Partnership. After an engaging presentation, participants engaged in lively table discussion where they were encouraged to share their own challenges, insights and opportunities.
Some insights from the discussions:
Key Challenges
Establishing genuine connections and fostering trust, especially in virtual environments, can be time-consuming and requires consistent effort.
Finding compatible partnerships who align with shared goals and values can be a daunting task.
Effective communication and clear expectations are crucial to avoid misunderstandings and maintain positive relationships.
Allocating sufficient time and resources to nurture relationships and collaborations can be challenging.
Measuring the impact of networking and partnership efforts can be difficult, as many benefits are intangible.
Valuable Insights
Quality Over Quantity is key - prioritising building strong, meaningful relationships over accumulating a large number of contacts.
Pay attention to others' needs and perspectives to foster genuine connections.
Utilise digital tools to efficiently connect, communicate, and collaborate with partners.
Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to enhance networking and partnership skills.
Contribute to the community through mentorship, volunteering, or sharing knowledge to strengthen relationships.
We are pleased to report that the session allowed for a positive and supportive atmosphere, and attendees felt encouraged to spark potential future collaborations during the event. In feedback, participants expressed their appreciation for the practical insights and strategies shared during the workshop.
By Ella Armitage,
Marketing and Communications Intern
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