Asia

By Sr. Molly Fernandes SFN

Dubai, Sep 3, 2024 — A groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering religious leaders to better serve marginalised communities across Africa, Latin America, and Asia is underway in Dubai. The Project Management and Fundraising Training programme is taking place from 2 to 6 September at the Crowne Plaza in Deira, Dubai Organised by Tulip Management Consultancy Ltd., UK, and co-funded by BEGECA, Germany.

The event, which has attracted 60 participants—27 women and 33 men—from 28 countries and 34 congregations and dioceses, offers a comprehensive training experience designed to enhance the skills and capacities of religious leaders, priests, and laypeople. Of the participants, 44 are attending online, while 16 are participating in-person, reflecting the programme's flexibility and accessibility.

"The primary goal of this training is to equip those working at the grassroots level with the skills necessary to initiate and manage projects that will significantly impact the lives of marginalised groups," said Percy Patrick, the Training Director. "We want to ensure that these religious leaders can be the voice of the voiceless and bring about real change in their communities."

Patrick emphasised the unique nature of this training, noting that it is one of the few programmes tailored specifically for faith-based and Catholic organisations. "Historically, religious leaders supporting missions in remote areas, particularly in the outskirts of Africa and parts of Asia, have not received the training needed to effectively manage their work. This programme is designed to fill that gap," he added.

Fr. Lord Winner CMF, the programme's Spiritual Director, highlighted the importance of this training in identifying and addressing the real needs of marginalised communities. "If religious leaders are not trained, they cannot effectively advocate for the marginalised. This training helps them bring spirituality into the lives of the people they serve, making a lasting impact," he said.

The programme also features multilingual support, with simultaneous translation in English, French, and Spanish, allowing participants from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds to benefit from the expertise of trainers from Europe, the United Kingdom, and Latin America.

"While the focus is on fundraising, the skills and tactics taught extend far beyond that. They learned skills and techniques that encompass their daily life, social interactions, and spiritual growth. The impact of this training is far-reaching, particularly for those living in remote, poverty-stricken areas where resources are scarce." Patrick pointed out the broader implications of the training.

The event is also fostering cultural richness by bringing together different congregations and dioceses under one roof, promoting inclusivity. Participants include not only Catholic religious leaders but also other community-based individuals and charismatic leaders who, despite not being part of professional organisations, are making significant impacts in their communities.

"For me, as an attendee, this training goes beyond money and fundraising. It's about making a lasting difference in the lives of the vulnerable," one participant shared.

This initiative reflects a commitment to the "do no harm" principle, ensuring that everyone is included and that the work being done leads to sustainable development, even in the most remote and challenging areas. The training aims to ensure that the message of the religious leaders resonates deeply, encouraging communities not to blindly follow religious rituals but to experience the true impact of spirituality in their lives.