Strong communities are built when people have opportunities to share their experiences, learn from one another, and work together toward meaningful change. In June, grassroots leaders from across Edmonton’s diverse communities came together to share their knowledge and perspectives as part of AHC’s Integrated Participatory Action Research (PAR) & BIPOC Grassroots Leadership Capacity-Building Project.
Nearly 90 participants representing 18 communities participated in a three-day series of community consultations held from June 27 to 29. Hosted by the AHC Community Development Unit and facilitated by consultants Dr. Michael Bopp and Dr. Judie Bopp from the Four Worlds Learning Centre, the sessions focused on learning, collaboration, and community-led change.
The project aims to document and leverage the social resilience assets that BIPOC, newcomer, and equity-deserving communities use to address racism and wellbeing inequities. It will also support the co-design of a practical, context-based, and culturally responsive leadership and organizational capacity-building curriculum for local grassroots leaders and organizations.
AHC engaged grassroots organizations that have previously received support through AHC programs, including Seed Grant funding, to implement initiatives addressing the unique needs of their communities. Through nine consultation sessions, participants shared experiences, identified challenges, explored opportunities for growth, and discussed ways to strengthen their initiatives.
To encourage meaningful dialogue and shared learning, participants were grouped according to the primary communities or themes their initiatives serve. These groups represented a wide range of communities and interests, including the Hispanic Community, Women in Sports, Nepalese Community, French-Speaking Community, Cultural Groups, and Mental Health and Wellness Initiatives.
By organizing participants around shared languages, lived experiences, and community priorities, the sessions created an inclusive environment for open dialogue. Participants exchanged ideas, shared successes and challenges, and built stronger connections across communities.
The insights gathered through the consultations will help AHC better understand the strengths, needs, and priorities of the communities it serves. More importantly, the PAR approach ensures community members play an active role in identifying issues and shaping solutions, reinforcing the principles of collaboration, inclusion, and community empowerment.
Through continued collaboration with community leaders and grassroots organizations, AHC will use these insights to support stronger grassroots leadership and help build more inclusive communities. Together, we can create spaces where diverse voices are heard, ideas are shared, and communities have the tools they need to lead meaningful change.
