Voice from participant of ILDC2024 – Konthea
What was the most significant to you?
It was my first time to participate in this kind of training course whose participants are from different countries.
The participatory approach made us to draw the different experiences and ideas out of ourselves. I think it is very important in my work field to have an opportunity that diverse members of the CBO can share their thoughts to understand each other.
How did you apply?
In the review and planning meeting of Commune Committees for Women and Children (CCWCs) in commune social budget activities, I facilitated a leadership training for the commune chiefs, commune clerks and OKNG of my target area, who are expected to be the key actors of the CBO to sustain the child health promotion activities. In the beginning, I asked the participants what kind of behaviors are required for the commune leaders to work with community people. They said, “we need to listen, not give a speech”, or “we should accept feedback”, etc. Usually, high-rank officers are reluctant to receive negative feedback from others. However, they decided to receive feedback from CSSAs (Commune Social Service Assistants) of OKNG, who are the ordinary citizen and support to develop the plan.
What outcome was made?
Peer-to-peer workshops were conducted in the new phase area (Chhaeb and Cheysen district). In order to demonstrate good practices, I invited the old CBOs that I previously worked with and asked for sharing their experiences with the new CBOs. I did not specify which case to be introduced and let them choose by themselves. Unexpectedly, the members of the CBO had a meeting and discussed what to share with other CBOs. In the workshop they made a well-prepared presentation without my support. I am very proud of the CBO members.
Is there any personal change?
In fact, after coming back from AHI, I could not have an opportunity to share my learning with my team members in my organization. However, they also joined the above-mentioned workshop and saw what I learned from ILDC. They also told me that my attitude has been changed from bossy style to friendly one. I agree because now I’m trying to listen to them.
Through my application in the field, I believe that I become more confident in using participatory approach.
