Statement: “True and sustainable development comes from within. By empowering local partners and communities, we ensure that development is not only relevant but also resilient and lasting. Collaboration with those who know their needs best is the key to meaningful impact.” — Ali Al Mokdad
Strategic Perspective: Ali Al Mokdad champions the empowerment of local partnerships and community-led development as a cornerstone of sustainable growth and progress. He believes that for development efforts to be truly effective, they must be rooted in the needs, aspirations, and knowledge of the local communities themselves. This approach goes beyond simply delivering aid—it’s about building lasting partnerships that enable communities to take charge of their own development.
Ali advocates for a shift in focus from externally driven initiatives to those that are locally led and owned. He supports initiatives that transfer skills, resources, and decision-making power to local organizations, ensuring that they have the capacity and autonomy to lead development projects. Ali’s approach includes fostering strong relationships with community leaders, local NGOs, and grassroots organizations, recognizing that these entities are best positioned to understand and address the unique challenges and opportunities within their communities.
In his work, Ali emphasizes the importance of co-creation and collaboration, where development strategies are designed in partnership with local stakeholders. This collaborative model not only ensures that interventions are culturally appropriate and sustainable but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride within the community. Ali believes that empowering local partners is essential to creating resilient communities that can continue to thrive long after external support has tapered off.
Future Vision: Ali envisions a future where local partnerships and community-led development are the primary drivers of global progress. He aims to see a development paradigm where international organizations play a supportive role, providing the tools, knowledge, and resources that local communities need to lead their own growth.
Ali’s future vision includes a global network of empowered local partners who collaborate across borders to share best practices, innovate, and address common challenges. He believes that this approach will lead to more sustainable and equitable development outcomes, where communities are not just beneficiaries but active participants and leaders in their own right.
Furthermore, Ali stresses the importance of recognizing the value of small, community-driven actions. He believes that when local efforts are supported and scaled, they can lead to significant global impacts. By working closely with local partners, fostering collaboration, and supporting community-led initiatives, Ali believes we can build a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world.