How do you measure and communicate the impact of your international organization?

Soka Gakkai International (SGI), particularly its Denver chapter, aims to create world peace and universal happiness, embodied through unity ("many embody one in mind"). Key outcomes include individual happiness, political impact, and global coordination. We measure success by enhancing members' well-being and education, encouraging democratic engagement, and ensuring cohesive global operations under Nichiren Daishonin's teachings. Our framework aligns with global standards by supporting the world peace agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring our activities contribute to broader global objectives.

The data we collect is voluntary to ensure members' safety and privacy, respecting their personal choices. Methods include individual efforts, community activities, discussion meetings, and Soka group preparations for optimal member experiences. We ensure reliable and ethical data processes by adhering to each country's laws and standards rigorously. Our high compliance has earned SGI a reputation as a world peace organization. Both quantitative and qualitative data, such as voluntary feedback and donations, are essential for analysis. This data, reflecting members' personal growth and challenges, guides our organizational strategies.

Our stakeholders include government officials, non-profit leaders, and business leaders with complementary needs. As a world peace organization, we harmonize and coordinate efforts to implement peace reforms, especially in authoritarian regions. We use documentaries, member testimonies, and stakeholder engagement to showcase our impact. By involving members as primary contributors to our communications, we ensure the messages are engaging and accessible. This approach fosters ownership and authenticity, avoiding rigid, agenda-driven narratives and making the impact communications resonate more deeply with our audience.

Our impact evaluations reveal that members are increasingly autonomous, self-organizing, and eager to contribute without compulsion. This fosters free will and allows leadership to pursue innovative solutions. Key lessons include promoting self-organization among Soka Gakkai members globally, transcending political, ideological, religious, cultural, and linguistic barriers. We disseminate these learnings by inviting stakeholders to our discussion meetings and encouraging them to reflect on how our objectives align with their personal missions. This inclusive approach ensures continuous improvement and broader alignment with our vision.

SGI stands apart in addressing global challenges by promoting a peaceful, non-partisan approach, independent of political parties or influential entities. We recognize the cyclical nature of power and rely on our principles for enduring impact. Our strengths lie in expertise and a network that values open, unfiltered communication with stakeholders, ensuring their concerns are addressed proactively. Historically, SGI's role in post-WWII Japan's democratization highlights our unique impact. By advocating for democratic principles, we have significantly influenced Japan's political landscape, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable, authentic growth.

In my experience measuring and communicating the impact of my international organization, I focus on clear metrics and effective storytelling. I start by defining specific, measurable goals related to our projects. I use data analytics to track progress and assess outcomes, ensuring we have concrete evidence of our impact. When communicating results, I emphasize transparency and relevance by tailoring reports to different audiences, including stakeholders and the public. Visuals and real-life success stories help make the data more engaging and relatable. By considering these aspects, I’ve been able to effectively demonstrate our organization’s impact and maintain strong support and trust.