There were three main challenges the organization asked GLP to consider and find solutions to:

There was a lot to do.

To achieve all our goals, we needed six days – that’s a lot! To help maintain good energy throughout, we did two things:

Developed a learning-centered design using a variety of techniques to engage with self, each other and the content. The participants were out of their seats a lot, working and making meaning together. From role play to writing African proverbs to going for a walk & talk to building Cycle 3 on the floor, participants were active. Energy and engagement remained high throughout.

Used a metaphor to stay focused. Over the 6 days, we built a visual forest of trees on the main wall with each tree representing one MTM country. Every time we went to the wall to add something to the forest of trees, we were reminded of why we were there: to build vibrant and healthy communities and networks of change. The metaphor was powerful and helped to build excitement in the work.

ERD wanted to ensure a continued sense of ownership among MTM partners.

This is important to them and at every step of developing this program, partners have been invited to co-create, collaborate, and offer input. In these 6 days we collected valuable feedback on three new components of MTM: an implementation manual, a digital monitoring system, and a 3rd cycle to the learning program. Inviting partners at every step of the way felt deeply respectful to all involved. To build a sense of ownership, we did the following:

Collected all the feedback and ideas offered – from the walls, floor, tables, and draft documents. We assured the group this would be transcribed and considered in the next steps of the work. Transparency and communication on the action coming out of this event was seen as critical.

Each individual in the room offered their input in a variety of ways. Using solo, pair, triad, small group and large group activities, everyone offered much for ERD to use to strengthen the program. Much gratitude was shared by ERD for all that was offered, and by the participants for being seen as valuable co-creators.

A few guests wanted to join to learn about MTM.

As the MTM program gains recognition and success on the continent, more countries and groups want to be involved. To help two interested parties join the event without distraction to the group, we did two things:

Asked that they be full participants, and not merely observers. Their voices were important in the dialogue and their ideas collected.

Invited in ‘outsider’ voices for a new perspective. Intentionally pausing from time to time to hear what ‘new’ eyes and ears were noticing was extremely valuable.

The Impact

By the end of this week, our hope was that participants had: 

• Reconnected with friends and colleagues
• Reflected on and celebrated successes
• Refreshed their understanding, ability and confidence in how to implement an MTM Program from set-up to sustainability
• Delved deeply into the differences between the three MTM Cycles
• Co-created Cycle 3 for MTM
• Provided feedback and new insights on various aspects of MTM implementation to be changed or incorporated into the Implementation Manual
• Identified for themselves adaptations that work well and those that may compromise the efficacy of the program and impact
• Co-created some solutions to challenges to be tested/piloted
• Received training on the new digital monitoring system and practiced the new tool
• Introduced MTM to visitors
• Had fun!

By all accounts each of these goals was achieved! Deep gratitude was shared by all. As a result of this 6-day event, MTM is a stronger program to increase the health and wellbeing of 0–3 year old children in rural, underserved communities, where access to information about nurturing care and resources are limited. As well, with Cycle 3 as part of the program, community ownership is now ensured.