In this cuppa, we delved into enhancing collaboration between government and the community. 

Introduction: 

In the pursuit of stronger collaboration between governments and communities. The key question guiding this exploration: How can governments work better with communities? 

Keywords: Collaboration, community engagement, leadership, innovation, government partnerships, empathy, understanding, communication, mobilisation, and grassroots initiatives.

Mobilisation and Conscious Action

Mobilisation and Conscious action featured in this cuppa, expressing the challenges of working within political structures and highlights the need for individuals, especially those in Parliament, to operate with integrity and a clear understanding of their values. This insight revolves around the idea that individuals and communities have the ability to drive change and influence systems by managing upwards, holding governments accountable, and actively implementing frameworks and values at the grassroots level.

Leveraging Collective Action for Societal Change

There was advocacy for a shift in perspective, encouraging people to see themselves not merely as subjects of the government but as active contributors to societal change. The emphasis is on mobilising communities to create the kind of countries and systems they desire, managing upwards by influencing the government rather than passively waiting for change. The insight underscores the importance of taking initiatives on the ground, incorporating frameworks into various aspects of life, and seeking conscious partnerships with businesses and organisations to drive change independently of government timelines. - ***“***It's about seeing ourselves, how are we, as people, the more we mobilise to be who we want to be and to create the kind of countries and systems we want to have, the more eventually they catch up. It's managing upwards, because at the end of the day, they're there to serve us."

Information Access and Consent

Part of the conversation highlighted the issue of information access and consent, pointing out that communities often lack essential information held by the government. The insight emphasises the need to challenge the traditional power dynamics, stating that communities do not necessarily need consent for all engagements. It underscores the importance of having conscious individuals within the government who respect the rights and consents of communities. The speaker advocates for taking control of information, pushing for transparency, and not waiting for government approval to implement necessary changes.

Community Voices & Community-Led as the BluePrint

A local example was shared about the effectiveness of  the unification of 10 organisations, under one locality, community consultation became a pivotal aspect, with a focus on Māori leadership for Māori communities. Involving esteemed elders such as Kuia and Kaumatua, a substantial report was generated that highlighted the voices of the community and their needs. This document serves as a valuable reference for understanding community needs, eliminating the necessity to embark on redundant research or reinvent the wheel. It exemplifies a successful model where collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and consolidated efforts streamline the process of identifying and addressing community requirements.

Inclusive Collectives for Multicultural Collaboration

The challenges in navigating government approval processes and ministerial priorities when attempting to implement social initiatives is the difficulty in gaining approval from ministers and the need to align initiatives with ministerial priorities. Additionally, the complexity of addressing broad social issues, such as digital policy, was discussed, emphasising the challenge of getting diverse stakeholders to agree on a specific focus - "Getting them to agree on this is what we are talking about was the challenge."

The cuppa-tea yarn touched the surface of the dynamic interplay between individuals, communities, and governmental structures in the pursuit of positive societal change. It encourages a proactive approach, urging us to become active contributors, shape their communities.

Mauriora, 
The Walk Together Team