Do you want to make the world a better place? Are you actively working to make a difference in your community, be it on a local, national or global scale? If so, then you’re probably a changemaker.
Being a changemaker sounds awesome, but what does it actually mean?
DEFINITION
Changemaking is the process of identifying a problem or challenge and working to create positive change. It can take many forms, from grassroots activism to policy advocacy, and can happen at the individual, organizational, or societal level.
At its core, changemaking is about taking action to address issues that matter to us. This can involve identifying a need, developing a plan of action, and mobilizing resources to create change. It requires creativity, collaboration, and persistence, as well as a willingness to take risks and learn from failure.
COLLECTIVE ACTION
One key principle of changemaking is that change is not something that can be achieved by one person alone. It requires the collective efforts of individuals and groups working together towards a common goal. That’s why changemaking often involves building networks, partnerships, and alliances to leverage the strengths and resources of different stakeholders.
SYSTEMIC CHANGE
Changemaking can also involve challenging the status quo and pushing for systemic change. This can mean advocating for policy reforms, engaging in civil disobedience, or working to shift cultural norms and attitudes. There are many factors to consider when deciding if and how to protest. For example, strikes might be illegal in some countries, while online advocacy or social campaigns may be viable alternatives.
INSPIRE AND EMPOWER
One of the most powerful aspects of changemaking is its ability to inspire and empower others. By taking action and creating positive change, we can inspire others to do the same. This can create a ripple effect that spreads beyond our immediate networks and communities, catalyzing larger movements for social and environmental justice.
CHALLENGES
However, changemaking is not without its challenges. It requires lots of time, resources, and energy, and can often feel overwhelming or discouraging. For these reasons, it’s really important to prioritize your mental health and wellbeing as a changemaker. If you don’t have anything left in the tank, then how are you going to have energy to keep doing the awesome work?
Despite these challenges, changemaking offers a powerful opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the world. It allows us to use our skills, passions, and resources to create positive change, and to contribute to a better future for ourselves and for generations to come.
Whether we are working to address climate change, access to education, promote social justice, or improve our local communities, each of us has a role to play in changemaking. By taking action, building networks, and persisting through challenges, we can create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world for all.
GET STARTED
Click here to learn about what our Circle of Youth members are doing around the world. If you’d like to start your changemaking journey with us, sign up to be a volunteer here.