From March 11-13, 2025, a dynamic Sustainability Workshop was held in Colombo, Kollupitty, supported by Wilde Ganzen. This interactive event brought together development practitioners, local leaders, and organizations working towards sustainable community development.
Over two and a half days, participants engaged in discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities focused on:
Project & Financial Management – Strengthening financial sustainability and working effectively with local governments.
Community Participation & Ownership – Encouraging grassroots involvement and action planning for impactful development.
Local Fundraising Strategies – Reducing donor dependency by diversifying income sources.
Key Takeaways from the Workshop
1. Strengthening Collaboration with Local Governments
A session on Social Accountability provided insights on engaging with government stakeholders to ensure transparency, accountability, and mutual respect. Participants shared best practices in working with local authorities to enhance the sustainability of their projects.
2. Financial Management for Sustainable Organizations
A deep dive into financial planning covered budgeting, expense tracking, and reporting, helping organizations establish trust with donors and partners. The Wilde Ganzen partnership requirements were also explored, equipping participants with the knowledge to secure funding and meet compliance standards.
3. Local Fundraising for Financial Sustainability
A crucial session highlighted how organizations can develop local fundraising strategies, featuring case studies of successful community-driven initiatives in Sri Lanka. Participants discussed innovative ways to mobilize resources within their own communities.
4. Empowering Communities for Development
Sessions on community-led development emphasized the importance of involving local people in decision-making. Through interactive exercises, participants developed action plans to integrate community participation in every stage of their projects.
5. Reflection, Action Planning & Certification
On the final day, participants identified key takeaways, set actionable goals, and discussed next steps to improve collaboration, financial sustainability, and community involvement. The workshop concluded with a certificate ceremony, celebrating the commitment of participants to sustainable development.
Looking Ahead
The workshop fostered a strong network of changemakers, committed to making long-term, sustainable impact in their communities. By adopting the strategies and tools learned, participants are now better equipped to strengthen their organizations, mobilize local resources, and empower their communities.
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