This episode of Changemaker Q&A is an exciting one- I'm finally ready to share my explanatory framework of empowerment from my doctoral research! After presenting the framework at an international conference (I'll share the paper here when it's published), I wanted to share the philosophy/theoretical underpinnings of the framework for anyone who is interested in how/why my research took me in tis direction first. It might seem like women's empowerment is something that is well-researched, but since empowerment emerged in the development field in the 1970s, it has become somewhat of a buzzw ..read more

In this thought-provoking episode, we unravel the profound connection between spirituality and science to challenge traditional notions of manifestation, stripping away the new-age veneer to explore its philosophical roots. Drawing inspiration from gravity and scientific laws, we delve into the nuanced process of intentionally manifesting social change. Discover how positive thinking, visionary practices, and intentional actions converge to create the necessary conditions for transformative impact. As social changemakers, we explore the broad spectrum of beliefs that align with our understandi ..read more

“How can you do a PhD on a topic soooo subjective… as an Industrial Hygienist have to read so many scientific articles from research and a lot are so inconclusive basically *use at your own risk, *needs more research, etc. can't imagine research about a word like empowerment.” This is a common question I get asked as a social researcher, which opens the door to a broader discussion about the often overlooked philosophical foundations of research and the need to embrace both the subjective and objective aspects of knowledge, and avoid many of the dualisms we see in contemporary Western thinking ..read more

Beyond just gardening or sustainable living, the integration of permaculture design principles can offer us a surprisingly useful framework for social change. The first of these principles is Observation and Interaction, which like other permaculture principles transcends the agricultural context, offering invaluable insights and methodologies applicable to social change endeavours guided by design and systems thinking. In this episode, I explored the permaculture principle Observe and Interact through a systems and design thinking lens for changemakers, and in subsequent episodes each month t ..read more

In the realm of social justice, our pursuit for change often navigates through various channels, methodologies, and practices. Amidst this landscape, the integration of mindfulness emerges as a pivotal tool, offering not just personal development but a transformative force within social movements. Traditionally focused on individual well-being, mindfulness extends its impact to the collective when embedded within the tapestry of social justice and change. This paradigm shift renders mindfulness a potent instrument at both individual and collective levels, and it’s the topic of this week’s podc ..read more

In the realm of social change and sustainable development, the integration of permaculture design principles has offered an innovative and holistic approach. The first of these principles is Observation and Interaction, which like other permaculture principles transcends the agricultural context, offering invaluable insights and methodologies applicable to social change endeavours guided by design and systems thinking. In this episode, I explored the permaculture principle Observe and Interact through a systems and design thinking lens for changemakers, and in subsequent episodes each month th ..read more

Catalytic Thinking, a theory rooted in the philosophy of abundance, initially proposed by Hilde Gottlieb, urging a reframe of questions, fostering collaboration, and highlighting its transformative potential in driving meaningful, enduring change. In this episode, we invite listeners to join in fostering a future where abundance is not an aspiration but a shared reality through collaboration, compassion, and collective action. You can access the episode transcript and any relevant resources on this topic here. Get 10% off your first purchase with Changemaker Co. If you want to change the world ..read more

While it may sound academic and complex, systems-thinking holds profound potential and applications in our efforts to drive positive change in the world. In this episode of Changemaker Q&A, we delve into what systems thinking is, its history, and why it's crucial for addressing 'wicked problems' in society. You can access the episode transcript and any relevant resources to this topic here. If you want to change the world, you have to experience it first, and one of the best ways to experience the world affordably and meet like-minded travellers is staying in hostels. Explore over 36,000 p ..read more

As we approach the turn of a new year, our intentions often align with resolutions aimed at self-improvement. For Ashley, a member of our community working in the non-profit sector, the focus for the upcoming year is on self-care and self-development. The final 2023 podcast episode dives deep into Ashley's questions about self-development for social change through the Inner Development Goals (IDGs), a comprehensive framework designed to foster personal development while actively contributing to broader social change. You can access the episode transcript and any relevant resources on this topi ..read more

“What does it mean to live a good life and how do we assess our life?” In this podcast episode, Tiyana explores various perspectives on what constitutes a good life, considering the ethical, cultural, and societal viewpoints that influence this complex question, and shares her personal framework for conscious living that helps changemakers align their values, passions, and purpose to create a fulfilling life while contributing to meaningful social change. You can access the episode transcript and any relevant resources on this topic at: https://humanitarianchangemakers.net/living-a-good-life-a ..read more