Prepare a working page
Use a notebook or a document that you keep for yourself. Write short answers in your own words. You do not need names, contact information or other personal details of anyone involved. Leave space for questions you cannot yet answer.
Choose a need you want to understand
Start with something you have observed directly. Separate your observation from your assumption about its cause. Before choosing a solution, listen to the people affected and ask what would be useful to them. Choose just one need to begin with.
- What exactly have I observed?
- What do I need to understand from those involved?
- Why does contributing here matter to me?
Describe the need in one sentence and write down the first question you will clarify.
Describe a result you can observe
State what you want to be different and for whom. Choose a small result you can act towards and a deadline that fits your available time. Distinguish the activity you will carry out from the change you hope it will support.
- What will exist or happen by the end?
- How will I notice whether the action was useful?
- When will I review the result?
Write down your goal, deadline and one concrete sign you will use to follow progress.
Plan a first step you can carry out
Break the goal into a few actions and choose a first action within your control. Check the time, materials, space and permissions needed. If your plan requires resources you do not have, make the action smaller before committing to costs or promises.
- What can I do in the next seven days?
- What do I already have, and what is missing?
- What permission is needed before I start?
Put your first step in your calendar and note the time and resources you will set aside.
Agree on how you will work together
Explain the purpose and listen to suggestions from people who want to help. Together, agree on clear tasks, limits to involvement and a time to talk. Do not assume anyone is available: each person chooses their contribution and can decline to take part.
- Who wants to contribute, and in what way?
- Who takes responsibility for each step, and by when?
- How will we discuss any difficulties?
Record agreed responsibilities and the next discussion without unnecessary personal details.
Review progress each week
Return to your chosen sign of progress and what you have actually done. Ask whether the action was useful, without assuming that participation means satisfaction. If the result is delayed, examine what is missing and decide what to change, continue or stop.
- What have I done, and what remains unclear?
- What have I learned from those involved?
- What is the right next step now?
Keep a weekly note of observed progress and one adjustment to make.
Finish with an honest reflection
At your chosen deadline, compare your intention with the result you observed. You can finish an action without turning it into a larger project. Keep what you learned for your next contribution.
- What was useful, and what supports my answer?
- What would I do differently next time?
- Do the people involved also want a next step?
Would you like to join the association’s programmes?
If you are aged 30 or under, you can apply for free participation in an eligible leadership programme or event.
Every application is reviewed for suitability and available places. For partner events, participation also depends on the organiser’s confirmation. Submitting the form does not guarantee a place.
View the conditions and application form