How can philanthropy support and embed participatory learning structures to achieve systemic change?

Evaluation of social change is often approached through structured mechanisms of monitoring and reporting. Often, it is based on linear, predicted outcomes in the forms of reports that are submitted "up" for review and sign-off. Rarely is space given to analyze together what can be learned from the report to improve change strategies. Instead, evaluation acts more as a mechanism for reviewing whether money has been well-spent (and it's often not even good at assessing that!).

Do such rigid systems really help us better understand our impact on the system? Do they offer us the information  and structures we need to adapt and change our strategies for more effective and sustainable change?

What if we did it a completely different way?

A new, collaborative approach to learning

In recent years, some foundations have been experimenting around more integrated, partner-based models for evaluation and learning – where the funder acts as a shareholder and supports networks of partners to reflect together on learnings and apply those to future strategies and approaches for change.

Ironically, this approach aligns with how some of the most respected businesses in the world operate. 

Embedded structures for learning and evaluation between funders, partners, and networks can help us:

• Save time and money by avoiding repeating mistakes and failures

• Reduce silos and increase alignment across disconnected but overlapping social change initiatives

• Spread innovations more effectively, so they can adapt to and benefit diverse local contexts

What will you gain from participating?

At this session, we will together explore practical insights around how to:

• Develop learning structures based in developmental evaluation

• Invest in connecting organizations and networks for deep, embedded learning

• Track emergent outcomes, relationships, and network health as indicators for systemic change

• Develop new structures that helps funders act as engaged but neutral shareholders

About the Speakers

Fasoranti Damilola is an Education leader with 10+ years of experience in 13 countries interfacing with the Government, Communities and Education Stakeholders to create learning that is personalized, fun, of quality and relevant to build rare and valuable career capital. Strong background and practical engagement in grassroots education, asset-based community development, resource mobilization, knowledge management, facilitation, human-centered design thinking, foresight, network weaving, and more

Gurpreet Singh As a Senior Program Manager at the Roddenberry Foundation, Gurpreet contributes to the design and implementation of the +1 Global Fund, and supports other Roddenberry programs & efforts. Prior to joining the Roddenberry Foundation, Gurpreet contributed to the Evaluation and Learning teams at the Skoll Foundation and David and Lucile Packard Foundation—where he helped internal teams reflect and adapt—as well as to non-profit organizations and government agencies. An explorer at heart, he enjoys diving into new books, music, outdoor adventures, and more. He is thoroughly enjoying his journey through life, while attempting to fulfill his obligations to the community of life on Earth that makes his journey possible.

Donika Dimovska worked at Results for Development (R4D) for 11 years, especially as as a Senior Director and Innovation Practice Lead. Now, Donika is the Chief Knowledge Officer at the Jacobs Foundation, which invests in the future of young people so that they become socially responsible and productive members of society.

Hosted at the Pitch Tent

As the sun beats down on the vibrant network festival grounds, a colorful tent catches your attention. In the “Pitch Tent: Where Network Leaders and Funders Meet" people mingle and engage in lively conversation. In one corner, a group brainstorms ways to evaluate the impact of their collaborative efforts. Others discuss the potential for funding networks to create systems change. As attendees say their goodbyes and exchange their contact details, the sense of excitement for future collaboration lingers in the air.

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!