What are the processes, patterns, and tools that help communities make more effective decisions collectively?

Enabling many individuals to engage in the decisions across a network can be a complex and daunting task. But it need not be so! 

Spreading ownership can increase transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. It can help a network guide its own strategy and actions so they become relevant to those who engage in it. And it can lead to better decisions, increased engagement, and more sustainable outcomes.

Most network leaders though face a multitude of questions as they attempt to move towards distributed structures. How do we find consensus across vast differences in ideas and opinions and navigate power dynamics? How do we balance hunger for momentum and action with the need for deep listening and consensus-making? How do we foster shared responsibility – and avoid the burden falling on the shoulders of the few? 

This workshop will aim to address those questions through an interactive and participatory format – practicing what we preach!

What will I gain from attending?

• Understanding the benefits of distributing ownership and decision-making in a network
• Explore practical tools and strategies for collective decision-making
• Developing skills to navigate power dynamics and maintain momentum in a distributed network

About the Speakers & Facilitators

Our contributors collectively bring a rich and deep experience of guiding dozens of organizations and networks to adopt distributed decision-making structures across the globe:

Susan Basterfield is a catalyst and convener who believes that awareness and discernment can unblock drains and move mountains. From 35-plus years in business—spanning global multinationals, startups and schools—arose experiences that drive her work as a systems transformation partner. Her work includes standing shoulder to shoulder with leaders and organizations on their transformational journeys, often over many years. She is an educator, coach, facilitator and collective entrepreneur. A long-standing Enspiral member, she currently energises the role of Foundation Director on the Minimum Viable Board, and creates livelihood alongside her colleagues at Greaterthan, a venture that sprang from the Enspiral (and Ouishare) soil. She is the proud co-author of Lead Together: The bold, brave,intentional path to scaling your business and Better Work Together: How the power of community can transform your business.

Manel Heredero believes in the power of innovative organisations empowering their teams to create value and have a positive impact. He is fascinated by networked organisations, distributed leadership and innovative governance models. His focus is on collective intelligence and strategic learning. Organisations he works with are interested in increasing the levels of internal and external collaboration, in breaking down the silos, in making the most of their collective intelligence and in unlocking the potential of their teams.

Pedro Portela is an international independent consultant, based in Portugal, specializing in peacebuilding, governance, and networks. With a background in aerospace engineering, he transitioned into social change and personal development a decade ago. Pedro's mission is to facilitate the transformation of our current civilization into a harmonious, Type I planetary society as envisioned by the Kardashev scale.

Zahra Davidson is Chief Exec of Huddlecraft, who specialise in peer-to-peer learning and change. In the 21st Century we face the steepest collective learning curve in human history: Huddlecraft exist to unearth more of our infinite potential to learn together. They’ve been creating infrastructure for collective learning and change since 2016, through Huddles and collaborations, e.g. Money Movers: a peer support network to help women move their money for the planet, in partnership with Friends of the Earth.

Hosted at the Workshops Zone

Step into the Workshops Zone, where creativity and collaboration collide. For centuries, artisans and craftsmen have gathered to share their skills and passions with one another. Honoring this long-held tradition, we bring together diverse makers, creators, and innovators to roll up their sleeves and dive into hands-on learning. From the scraping of chisels to the gentle human of sewing machines, immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of this vibrant space – and learn, contribute, and connect. 

What is the Networks Festival?

Embark on a month-long journey filled with connection, curiosity, and play bringing together thousands of changemakers, funders, conveners, companies, and governments to explore the power of networks to transform our world.

As you step into the festival grounds, you'll be greeted by a buzzing atmosphere of excitement and innovation. Everywhere you look, there are people eagerly discussing the latest breakthroughs in network theory, sharing stories of how networks have changed their lives and communities, and dreaming up new ways to harness the power of connections.

Leveraging the power of lived experience, we will strengthen our collective practice, directly increase funding opportunities for networks, and foster new collaborations to scale innovations and amplify transformational impact on the lives of billions around the world.

Whether you're a seasoned networker, curious changemaker, or philanthropist interest in "doing things differently" – there's something for everyone at the Networks Festival. Join us!