By Feryal Domingo

We recently wrapped up an intensive, dynamic 2-day workshop with the Woolworths Community Inclusive Justice Initiative (CIJI) team, helping to shape their transition from a foundation into a registered NPC. It is a privilege to support them as they strengthen their institutional resilience to continue their amazing work in the sector!

This session kicked off a broader team-strengthening journey focused on weaving Inyathelo’s specialised Advancement framework right into the core of how Woolworths CIJI operates.

Milton Fredericks, Support Specialist, said that this was “An amazing learning opportunity. It increased my confidence level, and has given me the insights and I feel so much stronger to liaise with other departments around compliance matters.”

The workshop had a really important dual purpose. On one hand the CIJI team was equipped with practical tools to map out and support the institutional health, resilience, and sustainability of their grantee partners. At the same time, we dove deep into what it actually means for their team to make the big shift from a corporate Foundation model into an independent, registered NPC.

By embedding the Advancement model into their day-to-day work, the goal is to help them navigate this internal governance transformation smoothly, while shifting their outward approach towards genuine, long-term non-directive mentorship and partnerships.

Over the two days, we looked way past standard paperwork checks to explore how independent civil society organisations can handle shifting local and global regulatory pressures - ensuring they don't just survive tough times, but truly thrive.

Joy Lange, General Manager, found the workshop “... insightful and also empowering. Because now we can engage with one another as a team with a better footing and a strong foundation”. Support Specialist Raziyah Salie agreed, saying: “I am now more familiar with what the rest of the team are dealing with and I feel better able to support them, especially with the Section 18A process”.

From unpacking how global AML/CFT regulations impact grassroots partners on the ground, to mastering the distinct roles within the Ten Elements of Advancement, the team is actively sharpening their tools to build stronger, more resilient relationships across the social justice sector.

A huge thank you to the Woolworths CIJI team for your sharp insights, rich experience from the field, and amazing energy. We love your commitment to nurturing a healthy, sustainable civil society ecosystem!

#TenElementsofAdvancement#CivilSociety #Sustainability #ResilientLeadership #Inyathelo #CapacityBuilding #SocialJustice