Locally Led Development

At World Learning, locally led development is both a mindset and a methodology. Since 1932, our work has been grounded in our original founding vision: We go to learn, not to teach. To make lasting change, we must listen to, learn from, and thoughtfully collaborate with local actors to best foster change.

World Learning knows that true sustainable development comes from local leadership, expertise, commitment, and buy-in. How does this work in practice? Consistent with our organizational values, World Learning applies a systematic approach that always reflects a community’s culture, values, and aspirations to ensure lasting change. Our approach is not one-size-fits-all or duplicative.

We work directly with local partners to identify needs, barriers, resources, and best practices to collaboratively identify solutions that include designing programs, frameworks, curricula, and trainings. We partner not only with government agencies, but also with community-based organizations, universities, the private sector, and youth organizations to design and deliver locally created and relevant programs. We work to empower and strengthen capacities and systems to respond to their greatest challenges.

World Learning believes that reciprocity and respect are essential for sustainable community-building. Our programs are grounded in a people-centered method to ensure that the voices, expertise, and agency of all are amplified. Additionally, by working directly with diverse program participants, more inclusive solutions are found. 

Our locally led development approach is central to our way of thinking and working. It is how we can all collectively and collaboratively contribute to create a more sustainable, peaceful, and just world.