Regarding development, there is a lot of talk about decolonization. But what does that mean for your organization? And how do you get started?

This blog post will answer six frequently asked questions about decolonizing development training for your organization. It will cover topics such as the definition of decolonization, its history and origins, and how to start making changes in your business.

1. What Is the Definition of Decolonization?

Decolonization is the process of undoing the damage done by colonization. It includes but is not limited to undoing the economic, social, and political damage inflicted on colonized peoples.

It also requires a shift in thinking about development. Development must be approached from a decolonial perspective to be effective.

What this means is that development initiatives must take into account the histories and experiences of colonized peoples. They must also seek to empower colonized people to determine their development paths.

2. How Do You Start Making Changes in Your Business?

Some general tips on how to start decolonizing your business include:

-Educate yourself and your team on the history and effects of colonialism and how it manifests in the business world today. It can be done through reading books and articles, attending workshops and seminars, or engaging in discussion groups.

-Examine your business practices and policies to see where they may perpetuate colonial power dynamics. It includes things like who has decision-making power within the organization, what voices are being heard and amplified, and how profits are distributed.

-Commit to change by creating goals and action plans. It will require ongoing reflection and assessment to ensure that the changes have the desired effect and that you are not inadvertently reinforcing colonial power dynamics.

-Engage with Indigenous peoples and communities to learn about their experiences, histories, and aspirations. It can be done through hiring Indigenous staff and consultants, building relationships with local organizations, and participating in events and ceremonies.

Finally, -Support Indigenous-led initiatives that are working to decolonize development.

It includes investing in Indigenous-owned businesses, donating to land defenders, and amplifying Indigenous voices in the media.

4. What Are Some Examples of Decolonizing Development Initiatives?

There are many examples of decolonizing development initiatives, but some of the most common include:

-Training local communities in project management and other development skills

-Supporting women-led and community-based organizations

-Implementing participatory planning and budgeting processes

-Creating space for marginalized voices in decision-making processes

-Challenging unequal power dynamics within development organizations

-Ending harmful development practices that perpetuate inequality and marginalization.

5. What Challenges Does Decolonization Present for Organizations?

There are a few challenges that organizations face when decolonizing development. The first is shifting power dynamics within the organization. Decolonization requires a fundamental change in how power is distributed and decisions are made. It can be difficult to achieve without a clear plan or commitment from leadership.

Another challenge is changing the culture and mindset of staff. It can be a huge undertaking, especially if the organization has been operating in a certain way for many years.

Finally, decolonization can be logistically difficult to implement. Therefore, organizations need to consider how they will change their structure, policies, and processes to support a more equitable and just development model.

Some tips to overcome these challenges:

-Educate yourself and your team on the history and theory of decolonization. Understand why it is important and how it can benefit your organization.

-Work with leadership to create a clear plan for decolonizing your organization—set goals and timelines for implementation.

-Change your organizational culture by valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Encourage staff to have an open dialogue about these issues.

-Be patient and flexible as you implement changes. Allow for trial and error as you learn what works best for your organization.

6. Are There Any Resources Or Tools That Can Help Me Get Started?

You can choose to decolonize development training online that offers various courses to get you started on your journey of decolonizing development.

These will include training on:

-How to shift the power within the development

-How to work with communities in a culturally appropriate way

-How to create and implement a decolonization plan

The cost and time commitment for these courses will vary, so it is important to research to find the right fit for you and your organization.

Final Thoughts

Decolonizing development is a critical step in creating an equitable and just world. By providing training for your organization, you can help shift the power dynamics perpetuating inequality and injustice.