Planting the Seeds of Transformation 1

A Recap of the SAMAP Value Chain Platform Opening Conference

?? The transition Journey Begins ??

Like a well-tended field, the opening conference of the SAMAP Value Chain Platform has sown the seeds of transformation for Suriname’s agricultural sector. Held on 6 September 2024, this event marked the start of a collaborative effort to strengthen key value chains—Cassava, Fruits and Vegetables Exports, and Non-Timber Forest Products.

With distinguished speakers and dynamic group discussions, the event was a gathering and a pivotal moment for stakeholders to prepare for the harvest of opportunities that lie ahead. The conference set the stage for deep engagement, where farmers, entrepreneurs, and leaders came together to fertilize ideas and nurture partnerships for long-term growth.

?? Cultivating Change Through Collaboration ??

The conference kicked off with inspiring opening remarks from Marlene Johnson of FAO SAMAP and Anand Ramkisoensing from the Ministry of Agriculture, immediately followed by a simulation to introduce the methodology of the program by Ray Jong, Joshua Bendter and John Sweet from Get!T Talent & Organizational Development. Each speaker provided a wealth of insight, reinforcing the idea that like any successful crop, the strength of our agricultural platforms is rooted in preparation, collaboration, and shared commitment.

Working in the background are Carolina Vera Vera and Linda Troenoredjo who have worked months to prepare this 4 month change program of these Value Chain Platforms.

This highly interactive approach set the stage for what participants later described as the best engagement they had ever experienced in a training session.

Of course, the real stars of this process are the participants themselves, whose dedication and hard work bring everything together. They are the driving force behind each step, ensuring that every detail is handled with care and commitment. Over the next few months, Get!T will provide the guidance and facilitation, but it is the participants who will truly shine, demonstrating their skills and leadership as they navigate this journey. Their efforts will ensure the success of the program and also inspire excellence in every aspect of the process!

?? The Power of Simulation: Growing Real-World Skills ??

One of the most impactful elements of the conference was the methodology: simulations and experience based workshops, which resulted in high engagement and 100% active participation from all attendees.

During each of the presentations, participants created mind maps and had short discussion about key take aways.

After the presentations, participants were divided into groups where they simulated real-world interactions with international organizations and government officials with the speakers Marlene and Anand. Each group had to work together to formulate questions, discuss key points, and prepare for a direct sit-down with the speakers.

For many, this was an eye-opening experience. Rather than simply hearing information, participants were immersed in a dynamic, hands-on environment, where they could directly apply what they had learned. These eight-minute sit-downs with speakers allowed participants to practice articulating their ideas, honing their communication skills, and receiving instant feedback in a controlled, supportive setting.

Afterwords they created an approach how their Value Chain Platforms can engage with the Government and international organizations. What are best practices to apply?

As commented by several attendees, this approach provided a level of engagement rarely seen in traditional training formats. The simulation made the content come alive and allowed participants to see themselves in real-life scenarios, preparing them for high-level meetings with international partners, such as the FAO, IDB, and World Bank, as well as government ministers and secretaries. This hands-on learning environment led to a deeper understanding of how to navigate professional conversations and secure actionable outcomes.

?? A New Standard for Engagement ??

This conference was evaluated at the end of the day as an immersive learning experience. The participants remarked that the combination of mind-mapping, group collaboration, and the real-world simulation had them thinking more critically, engaging more deeply, and collaborating more effectively than ever before. Many described it as the most interactive and impactful training they had ever participated in.

This high level of engagement demonstrates the power of active learning, where participants absorb information by applying it in real-time, using all their intelligences. As we move forward, the lessons learned during this simulation will serve as a blueprint for future interactions with both local and international stakeholders.

?? A Growing Future ??

As we look to the months ahead, the conference is just the first sprout in what promises to be a flourishing journey. The 20 planned sessions are designed to be action-oriented, preparing participants to engage with government officials, international partners, and fellow stakeholders to ensure a bountiful harvest for the value chain platforms.

?? Watch the Video Teaser ??

Want to see what the future holds? Check out this video teaser to get a glimpse of the energy and excitement that kicked off this journey! ????

SAMAP is planting the seeds for a prosperous, resilient agricultural sector in Suriname, and with every session, we are one step closer to reaping the rewards of this collective effort.

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