How Social Impact is Influenced by 'Us'

Karimi Fondaumiere

Director and co-founder

In this video, we delve into the significance of collaborative efforts in driving social change and understand the Theory U framework, developed. We also go through an engaging case study to demonstrate how Theory U can help organisations address deep-rooted cultural challenges. We also discuss practical strategies for effective collaboration, the importance of cultural sensitivity in multi-cultural teams and practical steps to optimise collaboration.

Sustainable Leadership

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How Social Impact is Influenced by 'Us'

14 mins 19 secs

Key learning objectives:

Identify how working collaboratively is essential to creating social change
Understand what the Theory U framework is and how to implement it in your organisation and team
Identify how to foster deep listening, inclusive spaces and multi-sectoral collaborations to achieve social change

Overview:

In order to achieve social change, collaborative efforts are crucial. This is why we also need to view social problems through the “we” lens. The Theory U framework serves as a tool to help foster such collaboration and overcoming social problems. It guides individuals and organisations through a process of deep listening, reflection, and co-creation.

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Summary

Why is social change a collective effort?

Social problems are interconnected and require diverse stakeholder engagement. Collaboration helps us see the bigger picture, share responsibilities, and boost the success of impactful solutions, while also expanding the reach and influence of initiatives.

What is Theory U and how does Theory U apply to social issues?

Theory U is a transformative leadership and change management framework developed by Otto Scharmer, a senior lecturer at MIT Sloan School of Management. It involves a journey of deep listening, reflection, and co-creation, helping individuals and organisations tackle complex challenges by being fully present to the current reality and emerging future possibilities.

Theory U helps address social issues by guiding individuals and organisations through a structured process of letting go of preconceived notions, observing the current reality with fresh eyes, fostering deep empathy, co-creating innovative solutions, and implementing these solutions. The framework emphasises the importance of diverse stakeholder engagement and systemic understanding of problems.

What are the different stages of Theory U?

Downloading - Letting go of preconceived notions and opening minds to new perspectives
Seeing - Observing the current reality with fresh eyes and conducting a thorough analysis of the problem
Sensing - Encouraging deep empathy by actively listening to affected communities
Presencing - Accessing collective creativity and wisdom for co-creation of solutions
Crystallising - Implementing co-created solutions into actionable initiatives
Prototyping - Experimenting with potential solutions and learning from failures
Performing - Integrating and applying solutions into daily operations with ongoing learning and adaptation

How does cultural sensitivity play a role in collaboration?

Cultural sensitivity is crucial in cross-cultural collaboration, as diverse perspectives and cultural nuances significantly impact social impact initiatives. We need to understand the importance of cultural preferences to avoid discomfort or misunderstanding. Theory U's principles of Open Mind, Open Heart, and Open Will facilitate cultural empathy, sensitivity, and inclusive decision-making.

What practical steps can optimise collaboration in multicultural teams?

Clear Communication - Establishing open dialogue and feedback mechanisms
Cultural Awareness - Providing resources and training to enhance understanding of different cultural norms
Inclusivity - Creating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued
Leveraging strengths - Assigning tasks based on individuals' strengths and expertise
Common goals and Values - Aligning the team around shared objectives
Adaptability - Being open to adjusting processes based on feedback and learning

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Karimi Fondaumiere

Karimi Fondaumiere, founder and CEO of SPRK, is a consultancy that assists organisations, leaders, and individuals in navigating complexity and change. With a degree in information systems and a background in IT consulting, she specialises in Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship. She has also worked in management consulting, advising corporates on scaling businesses for impact. She is a member of the Duke Global Educator network and a faculty member at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business. Her focus is on social impact and organizational development, helping stakeholders think strategically about sustainability and dealing with complex challenges.

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