CBM Australia proudly supports the Pacific Disability Forum’s “Growing Stronger Together” program, a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening the governance, efficiency, and effectiveness of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) across 14 Pacific Island countries. This ground-breaking program is a leading example of fostering localisation and movement-led approach to organisational strengthening, resilience and capacity-building.
The “Growing Stronger Together” program emerged in response to the unique challenges faced by OPDs in the Pacific. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need for robust infrastructure and online connectivity. Recognizing this, the program focuses on enhancing compliance, governance, and operational capacity, ensuring OPDs can effectively advocate for disability inclusion and equity.
Capacity building and training are at the heart of the “Growing Stronger Together” program. The initiative begins with a comprehensive assessment of each OPD, involving SWOT analysis, risk profiling, and the development of tailored workplans. This process identifies gaps in compliance, governance, and financial management, providing a clear roadmap for improvement.
In-country training sessions are also a cornerstone of the program. OPD staff and volunteers receive hands-on training in governance, leadership, and financial management. These sessions are designed to build foundational skills, ensuring that OPDs are equipped to navigate their unique challenges and drive meaningful change. Training topics include governance, leadership, strategic planning, finance, data collection, report writing, communication, and monitoring and evaluation.
Engaging with stakeholders is also crucial to the program’s success. Multi-stakeholder dialogues and partnership meetings with government agencies, donors, and UN bodies foster collaboration and support for OPDs. These interactions help align efforts towards disability inclusion and policy change.
The “Growing Stronger Together” program has already made significant strides. The first reflection workshop was held in 2024 (pictured), allowing OPDs to share learnings and refine their strategies. Looking ahead, the program aims to sustain and scale its impact, ensuring that OPDs remain credible, trusted partners in the disability movement.
CBM Australia is committed to empowering OPDs in partnership with the Pacific Disability Forum through the “Growing Stronger Together” program. By centering localisation, relationships and the voice of people with disabilities, this initiative not only strengthens individual organizations but also fortifies the entire disability movement in the Pacific, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
For more information please see full background note
Link to Background Note: PDF_OPD.GROWING STRONGER TOGETHER project briefing note_150824
Growing Stronger Together is supported by CBM Australian.
