‘When spiderwebs unite, they can tie up a lion’.

This African proverb is about the power of working together. That seems so obvious, but there is a lot involved. I am a facilitator who helps building meaningful collaborations.

‘All voices matter’ is a guiding principle in my work. I facilitate and advise on equitable partnerships. Such partnerships start with moving beyond us and them. Partners contribute to a shared ambition based on the combined powers, strengths and added values of each actor. Moving from Power Over each other to Power With each other. I have supported a wide range of change trajectories in the international development sector related to shifting power, decentralisation, building alliances and networks.

I use a range of methods which are participatory, appreciative, based on proper dialogue and adaptable to the groups that I am working with. My 15 years in management positions help me to interact with all levels of organisations and governance, and make outcomes practical. I engage in change trajectories, group facilitations and support missions, mentoring and coaching. Working with Perspectivity gives me the joy of well-grounded methodologies and professional and passionate colleagues!

With my family I have lived and worked in Zambia, Malawi, South Africa and The Netherlands. Engaging with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds is a joy for me. The diversity of views, ways of working, great humour, creativity and inspiring stories are fascinating. Talking about stories: I love reading and theatre, and sometimes apply theatrical approaches in my workshops.

Clients say: ‘Gerrit adds great international experience, skills and humour to your team, trajectory or session!’

Member of Partnership Brokers Association

Expertise

• Equitable Partnerships
• Multi-stakeholder Dialogue Processes
• Power Dynamics
• International Cooperation
• Leadership and Capacity Strengthening

Examples of what I do