In a dynamic collaboration between six DeSIRA projects, 14 trainees converged in Cotonou, Benin, for a transformative week-long training workshop on innovation facilitation. Guided by the expertise of Kola Nomande Prosper from Experts Synergy Consulting and Chloé Lecomte from CIRAD, the trainees delved into a comprehensive program designed to equip them with essential skills and tools.
The Training Experience
The workshop, held in December, was a blend of interactive elements, including role-playing exercises, group activities, experience sharing, and critical reflection, all grounded in open innovation theories. Throughout the week, participants honed their abilities in active listening, empathy, handling challenging situations, and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders. The goal was to empower them as innovation facilitators capable of steering projects towards success.
Toolkit for Innovation Facilitators
As a result of the training, the participants gained invaluable insights and hands-on experience with various facets of an innovation facilitator’s toolkit, from facilitating living labs for Santé & Territoires to managing innovation platforms for IRRINN and ReSiNOC, the trainees left with a wealth of tools and a clear action plan to enhance their roles in their respective DeSIRA projects.
Individualized Action Plans
Upon their departure from Cotonou, each trainee carried with them a personalized action plan crafted during the workshop. These plans will be closely monitored by the DeSIRA-LIFT trainer coaches, who will conduct in-depth sessions in January and February to ensure the trainees’ continued growth and development.
Future Cohorts and Global Reach
The Cotonou workshop marked the beginning of the DeSIRA-LIFT service offering for innovation facilitators, setting the stage for four additional cohorts. The upcoming sessions are scheduled in Madagascar (January ´24), Cameroon (February ´24), Colombia (March ´24), and Ethiopia (April ´24). The anticipation is high, and interested individuals are encouraged to stay tuned for information on registrations.
The inaugural training in Cotonou laid the foundation for DeSIRA-LIFT’s service offering and initiated a transformative learning pathway for the first cohort. As the program expands its reach to other parts of the globe, the impact of these trained innovation facilitators is expected to resonate across diverse projects, bringing about positive change and fostering a culture of innovation. For more details and to stay informed about upcoming training opportunities, please contact the team at service@desiralift.org.