After taking a look at the
structure of the organization and work that needs to be done, I came to a
conclusion – this organization must be run by one African Superman/ superwoman
really serious about investing in youth. Question is who is this super house
and what makes this organization so successful? What makes the youth so
motivated to work and put the organization on the map? I mean, coordinating
activities around Africa, surely there is something more than money, ability,
and willingness at play here. Anyway, as a researcher I just could not leave
these questions unanswered, so I went on a research jaunt to quench my thirst. I
found answers!
On a personal basis I have
always found satisfaction in volunteering at various levels such as at school,
church, and my community. This I do in a bid to help make my community a better
and safer place to live. In my volunteering years I have learnt many a lesson,
one particular one being that what strengthens my resume is more responsibility
not a bigger title. This I learnt from a great team at IHAV Africa, an
organization I volunteer at which seeks to inspire and challenge youth across
Africa to envision change and ACT on it.
If I were to describe the IHAV
family in a few words I’d say they are “engagement champions.” Why do I say so?
It’s simple. Let me explain to you what to me, makes IHAV the most fun
organization to volunteer for. IHAV is an open platform of visionaries who
encourage each other to act on their vision to make Africa a better home. What
I like most is the fact that youth are not fitted into jobs but they do what
they feel is in line with the organization’s objectives and vision. In not so
many words they make the vision the “BOSS.”
One might then ask how this can
be when clearly it has departments and Directors in those departments. These
are just there to act as focal points or references but definitely not bosses.
This is the reason why even a volunteer can communicate with the Head Director
straight up. I believe when people always tell you what to do, then you are a
machine, but if you are given enough authority and work with people who share
the same vision as you, extraordinary things happen. J IHAV team members
do not wait to be given work, rather they come up with innovative and engaging
ways that continually better the organization. Like this article, I wasn’t told
to write it but I’m sure it adds some value, continue reading.
It is always a joy to work with
people who share the same vision as you and encourage you. This makes you grow
in the right direction. I always enjoy sharing whatever I learn from the team
with others. After all, a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.
Having said this, let me take this opportunity to invite you all to the
upcoming IHAV annual conference from the 30th of July to the 2nd
of August in Accra Ghana. Here over 100 young African visionaries interact to
discuss on challenges and opportunities in agribusiness. This year’s theme is “Creating an agribusiness revolution with Africa’s youth.” Make
sure you book your seat, see you there.For registration please CLICK HERE
BY ANGELBERT WAMAMBO (IHAV TEAM MEMBER FROM ZIMBABWE)
BY ANGELBERT WAMAMBO (IHAV TEAM MEMBER FROM ZIMBABWE)
