From Lethumusa’s Desk
As the world observes the unfolding of a second Donald Trump presidency, I have just learnt of yet another way that this regime change in the United States of America has already begun to impact the lives of millions of people in places both near and far.
More changes, both rapid and gradual, are expected to take place in global politics in the next while. This will no doubt impact the way we work, particularly in the development sector. While it’s important to acknowledge them, adapting and responding to these anticipated shifts should maintain the integrity and essence of the brand represented.
This framework has guided our team at Stractiv8 to discern what we react to, how we communicate that reaction (if at all), and why we make those decisions:
- Is this our story to tell?
- As leaders of organisations, our personal convictions often influence the decision we make in our professional capacities. While this shouldn’t be negatively perceived, it is something to be cautious of when communicating from an organisational perspective. Understanding our proximity to issues, and more importantly, our readiness to speak credibly on them are both important considerations.
- Who do we want this message to reach?
- The advent of digital media platforms means that our brand communications can reach pretty much anybody on the globe. Be that as it may, our primary audiences, their needs, curiosity and potential response should remain top of mind when crafting and disseminating messaging.
- So, what now?
- Once the message has landed where we intended, what impact are we hoping it will achieve? A clear and decisive call to action that is bound by measurable outcomes is always helpful to guide audiences. And should there be further engagements related to the issue – perhaps a media interview – we would need to have a capable resource person to present and defend our stance, which also lends credibility to our brand.
So, we look forward to working with you as we continue to impact and transform lives and spaces despite these challenges; and we stand in solidarity with those adversely affected by these developments. Angela Davis, feminist activist and author, reminds us to no longer accept the things we cannot change; but to change the things we cannot accept. This rallying cry for bold, transformative action is one that the team and I are taking heed of; always and in all ways holding on to hope that one day, a new dawn will rise.
Until next time,
Lethumusa
