CELEBRATING OUR PARTNERS
It is no secret that our programme partners are at the heart of what we do – the programmes simply wouldn’t be so successful without their guidance, expertise and dedication in supporting group members. Recently, Rachel asked Grace, our partner in Aru, DR Congo, if she would support our brand new partners in Katanga (DRC) with a programme design workshop. Grace replied:
“Nous sommes très contents d’être invité. C’est pour dire que vous nous avez fait confiance. d’où nous ne pouvons pas refuser de vous accompagner à Lubumbashi.”
It sounds more lovely in French! But translates to: “We are very happy to be invited. It means you have put your trust in us, and so we cannot refuse to accompany you to Lubumbashi.”
The journey is around 2,6000km, which Google estimates would take around 45 hours by road! Thankfully, we are able to fly Grace there, so the journey will be much shorter, but her incredible heart and dedication to seeing communities in DR Congo thrive is clear. Her extensive skills, knowledge and experience in Aru will be invaluable in enabling our newest programme partners to thrive.
PARTNER WORKSHOP
Fifty partners from thirteen countries across east and central Africa gathered in Nairobi last week. Joined by members of the Global Programmes Team, they shared learning and fellowship and discussed the various contexts and challenges they face – together. It was a great opportunity to share their unique insights on what is working well for them, and collaborate on improvements to unlock lasting change in their communities.
Our partners left the workshop inspired, ready to take new ideas into their own programmes. One partner reflected on what they would take away from the workshop:
“Empowering the [savings] group members to be ready to respond to any eventuality; creating strong united communities.”
UPCOMING EVENTS
Our events calendar for the rest of the year is set! We’d love for you to join us for our virtual event introducing Victor and Florence, the team in Malawi, on 4th November. You can register here.
Our annual Winter Drinks Reception will be held in Armourer’s Hall in the heart of the City on 26th November. Having been recently refurbished, the evening will include a tour of the most magnificent and elegant rooms – each packed with historical interest. The hall is seconds away from the Elizabeth Line at Moorgate and a short walk from both Bank and Liverpool Street Stations. Please join us for a celebration of Five Talent’s supporters and partners – and learn more about our achievements and plans for the future. You can register here.
And rounding out the year will be our annual Christmas Carol Service at St Mary-le-Bow Church on the 15th December. We would love for you to join us and celebrate the festive season and all that our programme partners and members have accomplished this year. You can sign up for a ticket here.
WHAT WE’RE READING
Renk in South Sudan is seeing an increase in displaced people and refugees. Many people fleeing the war in Sudan went to Renk, on South Sudan’s northern border. In Renk the UN, NGOs and government agencies, were supporting people to return to their homes. Now, with aid funding cuts, agencies have shut down and limited access to humanitarian services. You can read more here.