connected

To start with Daidalos, the consultancy company I have been working for since 2006. On Monday we had our yearly strategy meeting. Not only is it uncommon for people who have resigned to attend these meetings, it's even more uncommon for such person to receive a time slot. In this case, one to explain what I'm about to do, and the partnership we've agreed on. It feels really nice that people you've worked with over almost the last 5 years are willing to support this project. A handout of my presentation and some information of the partnership can be found here.

Secondly, I've had a meeting with the VNG - International. As I'm going to work for the Association of Municipalities of Burkina Faso, and knowing that there is a partnership between VNG - International and a number of countries in West-Africa, it was an excellent opportunity to speak to people who know a lot on the topic of LGA's (Local Government Associations). We've decided to keep in touch to see if we can work together during my placement.

And last but not least, last weekend I've had a coffee break with a volunteer I've met on the P2V training. It looks like we're heading towards 'same place, same time' in Burkina Faso. Which, seen the length of our coffee break, will be joy.

the CLEAR framework on participation

The table below gives a nice overview of matters to take into account when it comes to participation. I found it in a publication of VNG (found here) and it is a summary from the report of Prof. Gerry Stoker ‘Extending Local Participation' to the CDRL, October 2004.

As an architect, I like frameworks, and this one is no exception.

Factor affecting participation How it works Associated policy target
Can do The individual resources that people have to mobilize and organize (speaking, writing and technical skills, as well as confidence to use them) make a difference in their capacity to participate Capacity building: specific support measures or targeted development
Like to To commit to participation requires a sense of involvement with the public entity that is the focus of engagement Sense of community, civic engagement, social capital and citizenship
Enabled to The civic infrastructure of groups and umbrella organizations makes a difference because it creates or blocs an opportunity structure for participation To build the civic infrastructure so that there are groups and organizations around to channel and facilitate participation
Asked to Mobilizing people into participation by asking for their input can make a big difference Public participation schemes that are diverse, engaging and reflexive
Responded to When asked people say they will participate if they are listened to, not necessarily agreed with, but able to see a response A public policy system that can show a capacity to respond

things ... and stuff that matters

After a couple of days of frenzy not-knowing where to begin it seems that the start of the puzzle has been solved. Doctor, dentist and medical clearance appointments have been planned in, my new passport should be on its way and helping hands to get my house cleared came flying in. I should admit though that for this last one I announced a couple of times that my supply of Belgian beer needed to be exterminated. Last but not least action for this week, I've turned in my resignation letter at work.

Together with these plans, it's also time to face reality that I'm leaving behind a lot of people I care for. First of all my father, we've spent so much time together since my mom died suddenly in 2009, making up time we've lost years before. I'll miss the talks with my sister, and smart-mouthing my brother. I'll miss my grandparents and knowing that since they are aging, there is a chance we will not be able to see each other again. And I'll miss gatherings with uncles and aunties, nephews and nieces. I took it all into account before deciding to go with VSO, but this is the part I don't look forward to.

destination known

Another morning, another episode. Response from Burkina Faso - 'yes'. So not even 3 months after writing a first mail to VSO, my destination is known.

One important step is already taken: a new home for my cat. Believe the right person stood up, last week it was. But definitely, I couldn't be more relieved with this solution and am convinced my big red furry monster will do fine!

And with this response, I'll probably start the only project for the coming years which might go according plan; let's call it project-cleanup-behind-you-and-prepare-to-quit-holland. 10 weeks left.

And 8 weeks left to work with my current employer. Slogan-wise, it's a change from 'dedicated people, smart solutions' to 'sharing skills, changing lives'. Somehow, they do fit together.