The 3 A’s: Agency and Autonomy for Advancement

A theory of change proves invaluable for various organisations and initiatives striving to create meaningful social impact or address complex issues.

Much like numerous nonprofits, social enterprises, community initiatives, and development organisations, The Dandelion Philosophy employs a theory of change.

This framework serves as our compass, articulating our mission, goals, and distinctive strategies aimed at achieving enduring social impact.

Our Theory of Change states:

"The sum of consistency in food security, healing, learning, and a sense of connection, plus the power of intention, innovation, and imagination, multiplied by our efforts, when coupled with opportunity and agency, creates infinite possibility."

Put simply, when we attend to fundamental necessities such as sustenance, healing, education, and fostering a sense of community, and when those benefiting from our efforts contribute their intention, ideas, and efforts, we can collectively foster sustainable change and opportunity.

Today, I wish to delve further into the latter aspect of this assertion—a term that has occupied my thoughts and evoked deep emotions over an extended period: "agency".

What is Agency??

In a broader context, agency refers to the degree of control or influence one holds over their circumstances, granting the ability to exercise autonomy, make choices, and effect change.

It embodies the power to act as a transformative force, shaping one's destiny, pursuing goals, and navigating the intricacies of life or specific situations with purpose and impact.

Agency transcends mere action; it embodies an awareness that our actions carry consequences, signifying a commitment to responsibility and accountability for the choices we make.

This fundamental aspect of human existence and empowerment is integral to personal growth, social transformation, and the exercise of individual rights and freedoms.

Why is Agency Necessary for Change?

My perspective has consistently highlighted the tendency of charity to inadvertently foster dependency.

I have previously shared my insights on this matter, expressing both personal viewpoints and those of our organisation. Despite well-intentioned beginnings, the execution often falls short.

Regrettably, this frequently leads to a scenario where, whether it be a social enterprise, a nonprofit, or a small family-owned business, the essential support and funding required for initiating and sustaining transformative efforts remain primarily within the control of those privileged individuals possessing the means to drive enduring change.

What is lacking is agency.?

The outcome? Entrepreneurs, particularly those from BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) backgrounds, find themselves compelled to establish their worthiness.

This involves navigating complex processes, grappling with mountains of paperwork, and ultimately having to perform in a specific manner, driven by the necessity to secure the support they require.

Different perspective?

Reflect upon instances where women find themselves presenting menstrual products before predominantly male panels. Contemplate the scenario where male lawmakers are tasked with voting on matters related to abortion and legislating its legality. Take a moment to consider an African nonprofit proposing solutions for local food insecurity to European or American organisations in pursuit of collaboration and support.

In each of these scenarios, following diligent preparations involving sleepless nights dedicated to rehearsal, thorough study of potential supporters, and the meticulous compilation of materials essential for a compelling pitch, the allocation of support or funding is not determined solely by the severity, validity, or urgency of the needs presented. Instead, it is influenced by the perspective of those situated on the opposite side of the table and their decision, effectively transforming the process into an audition.

For me, each of these scenarios prompts a significant question: Have I engaged you sufficiently to merit support?

Debatable? Perhaps.

Yet, who possesses a deeper understanding of the challenges and potential solutions than the women directly involved in creating menstrual products?

Is it truly fitting for a male senator to serve as the ultimate decision-maker regarding a woman's autonomy over her body?

Should the CEO of a large pharmaceutical corporation be the primary arbiter on whether an African organisation, initiated by an African farmer, is deserving of transformative funding?

I advocate against this.

Just as we do not seek legal advice from a chef, we should exercise similar discernment in consulting individuals for their expertise. Relying on a social media influencer for legal guidance is akin to seeking culinary recommendations from someone who specialises in a different domain.

They are uniquely equipped to identify, navigate, and resolve these issues as they possess intimate insights and lived experiences, forming the bedrock of sustainable solutions.

Empowering individuals directly impacted by challenges with the tools, resources, and support to steer the course of change amplifies their innate capacity to determine the most effective pathways towards resolution, ensuring solutions are impactful and deeply rooted in the context and needs of the community.

So What Is the Alternative??

Support, particularly within the framework of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), should serve as a catalyst for agency, demonstrating a commitment to respecting the autonomy, experience, and expertise of communities, rather than imposing predefined expectations.

I encourage decision-makers to reflect, asking themselves: "Am I making decisions based on what is genuinely best, or am I swayed by the extent to which I have been impressed or entertained?'”

Rather than dictating the "how", CSR should prioritise fostering partnerships, providing resources, and creating platforms that amplify the voices and agency of those in need.

While it necessitates relinquishing a degree of control and abstaining from assuming the role of a "saviour", adopting a collaborative mindset genuinely acknowledges the diverse perspectives, cultures, and strengths inherent in communities.

This approach ensures that interventions authentically address local challenges, thereby fostering sustainable, community-driven solutions.

Agency Is the Key to Sustainable Solutions

Financial resources serve as enablers for change, yet they do not constitute the change itself.

Genuine sustainable leadership entails championing agency and entrusting those in closest proximity to the challenges with the custodianship of their own transformation.

As we navigate the complexities of social change, the conclusion is clear: money, though essential, is not the ultimate agent of transformation. Instead, the recognition and empowerment of agency holds the key to sustainable, community-driven solutions.

If autonomy is the sauce, then perhaps agency is the secret ingredient for true advancement.

Together, let's shape a future built on agency, autonomy, and impactful transformations.

Follow The Dandelion Philosophy's journey on LinkedIn for regular updates, and consider contributing to our cause through a donation. Your support not only helps us drive impactful initiatives but also paves the way for sustainable change in communities in need.

Written by Nazeem Harvey - Founder and CEO at The Dandelion Philosophy

Committed to reshaping the narrative of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Nazeem advocates for a unique model that prioritises agency and autonomy within communities. Under his leadership at The Dandelion Philosophy, the focus is on ensuring sustainable change by empowering communities and recognising their autonomy, experiences, and expertise. With a profound belief that true transformation lies in the hands of those closest to the challenges, Nazeem leads a team dedicated to fostering community-driven solutions, allowing each individual to contribute to their own narrative of positive change. Together, this effort weaves a story of empowerment and sustainable impact.