History

History

Our Journey of Empowerment and Advocacy

Since our inception, we have been at the forefront of championing the effectiveness and influence of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) around the world. Our story is one of passion, perseverance, and partnership, as we strive to create a just and equitable society.

The Founding Vision

We were born out of a collective realization that while CSOs were making significant strides in their individual efforts, there was a greater need for coordination, shared learning, and advocacy to amplify their impact. A small group of dedicated activists and development professionals came together with a shared vision to create a platform that would unite the voices of civil society and enhance their developmental effectiveness.

 

Early Milestones

Our early years were focused on establishing strong foundations. Some key milestones included:

  • Year 1: Official registration as a non-profit organization.
  • Year 2: Launch of our first collaborative project, which successfully empowered local change agents.
  • Year 3: Expansion to 6 countries, enabling a broader exchange of ideas and best practices.

Our Legacy


Championing Civil Society


Since our inception, We have been at the forefront of advocating for civil society. We believe in the power of collective action to drive transformative change.


Documenting Milestones


Our history is a tapestry of pivotal moments and achievements. We preserve the stories of CSOs' resilience and innovation, inspiring others to join the cause.


Guiding Future Generations


As we look back, we are also focused on the road ahead. Our past shapes our future strategies to support a vibrant and effective civil society.

Embracing the Istanbul Principles

In 2010, we embraced the Istanbul Principles, which have since guided our work. Our commitment to these principles has sharpened our focus on promoting human rights, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and equitable partnerships.

Scaling Up Impact

As we grew, so did our impact. Some highlights include:

  • 2012: Introduction of our flagship capacity-building program, the “Empowerment Initiative”, which has since empowered thousands of CSO professionals.
  • 2015: Hosting the “Global Civil Society Summit”, a landmark conference that brought together CSOs from 50 countries to discuss climate action and sustainable development.
  • 2018: Launching our research division, which has contributed to influential policy papers and advocacy campaigns on issues such as digital freedom and economic inclusion.

Overcoming Challenges

Our journey has not been without its challenges. From navigating the complexities of international funding to responding to global crises, we have adapted and grown stronger. Notable challenges we’ve overcome include:

  • Responding to the “2016 Global Health Crisis”, where we mobilized CSOs for emergency relief and long-term recovery.
  • Advocating for civil society space in regions where freedoms were under threat, resulting in policy reforms in 2019 that enhanced NGO operations.

Today and Tomorrow

Today, we stand as a beacon of hope and collaboration for CSOs worldwide. We have facilitated dialogues, influenced policy, and supported grassroots movements that have shaped the course of development and civil society engagement.

As we look to the future, we are focused on advancing digital literacy among CSOs, ensuring that civil societies remain at the forefront of sustainable and inclusive development.

Celebrate Our Legacy

Our history is not just a record of past achievements; it’s a testament to the resilience and commitment of those who believe in the power of collective action. We invite you to join us as we continue to write the story shaping a better future for all.