2017 IJR Candidate Questionnaire - Pipa Raimundo

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Pipa, Portugal Olá!

My name is Pipa and I am from Portugal.

I have been in CISV since 2007 and involved in Junior Branch for the last 6 years (more recently as a NJR and an EJB Team member). This has allowed me to have very busy summers apart from keeping my long summer book list updated and read!

I have finished my first year of Masters in International Project Management and I have been lucky enough to have worked in two new and different NGOs in the last year.

Don’t hesitate to contact me for more information on the questionnaire or if you just want to talk.

I am currently living in Paris and enjoying my life as a french wannabe (although I still have a hard time accepting cheese as a desert!).

I wish you a good time getting to know me through my questionnaire!

pipa.raimundo@pt.cisv.org

IJR CANDIDATE 2017

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You have been nominated by a National Junior Branch to be the next International Junior Representative.

Introduce yourself and tell us the 3 main attitudes and skills you possess that will contribute to this position.

ATTITUDES

SKILLS

Approachable | I try to take everyone into consideration at any circumstances and try making people comfortable in sharing their ideas,

Adaptability | I have learned (and haven’t stop learning) to adapt to different situations, to different people by seeking different experiences

opinions and thoughts. ˝ This is important for an IJR because: an IJR is a representative, someone who needs to always listen to others’ opinions and ensure that everyone has a say in a decision. IJB’s success relies on everyone’s ideas which is why I would like to hear what you have to say about it!

and different environments.

This is important for an IJR because: the work of an IJR relies a lot on coordinating and working with different people in different contexts. Regional Teams, IJB Team, Governing Board, Committees, JBers represent a big part of the work of an IJR which demands a capacity to adapt to the different interlocutors. ˝

Reliable | I think I am very reliable which means that people can count on me at all times if they need me. I tend to look for further ways to support and help others the best way that I can.

Problem solving | I enjoy challenges and finding different solutions to the challenge ahead by taking the context and needs of those involved.

This is important for an IJR because: as an individual you have expectations for yourself but you are also putting yourself forward to represent and support others.

Being reliable is fundamental because it demands trust and if people trust you then you can go further together.

Committed | Before I commit to something, I make sure that I can dedicate myself completely to what I am committing to. Once that decision is made, and I realize that I can bring something to what I believe in, I commit 100% This is important for an IJR because: being an IJR is a full-time job and something that needs to be taken seriously. Every volunteer goes through highs and lows which is why it is important to never forget the reason why you decided to commit on the first place.

This is important for an IJR because: an IJR needs to have an overview of CISV’s different areas as well as to assist and support when someone needs it. Being able to provide innovative solutions to specific situations can be considered a strength for an IJR. Organized | I take my other responsibilities very seriously which is why I make sure to properly organize by work in order to achieve my goals and to not disappoint others and myself in the process.

This is important for an IJR because: as any other role of high responsibility the IJRs tend to have to work under stress. I believe that being organized helps me structure my work and properly deliver according to my (and everyone’s) expectations.

The Junior Branch purpose put forward in the JB Review draft motion is: Junior Branch offers opportunities for youth to develop the attitude, skills and knowledge they need to become effective leaders in CISV and to act for a more just and peaceful world. It does this in order to contribute to the mission and vision of CISV. How do you personally relate to this purpose?

What could be examples of such opportunities?

I personally relate to this purpose as I have been lucky enough to have benefited and learned from the innovative spirit, the educational approach and the diversity of opportunities (and from the people I have encountered) Junior Branch has to offer. Some of these opportunities have provided me with the attitude, skills and knowledge to actively contribute to CISV’s educational purpose by: • Actively contributing to CISV Portugal’s programmes and committees in regards to training and educational activities • Representing CISV Portugal as a National Junior Representative and addressing the challenges that our Junior Branch was facing at the time by working closer with our different committees to highlight JB positive impact in our different programmes and on our Chapter's growth • Planning and facilitating several diverse workshops and meetings such as BeNeLux, Ibérico, MedNights, Wild West Weekend, European Junior Branch Meeting (EJBM)… For example, being part of the planning and facilitating of the first EJBM and BEAM as a joint meeting in 2016 was one of the main highlights of my involvement in CISV. Having to take everyone's goals into consideration, having to think of different ways to approach everyone's expectations and deliver high quality educational content was, in my opinion, one of my biggest challenges and gratifying experience!

• Representing CISV International at the European Youth Forum and getting an insight on how CISV can contribute to the NGO sector as well as benefit on some key aspects such as Good Governance and the recognition of non-formal Education.

• Working with different CISVers on helping develop other funding opportunities for JB and other projects in the EMEA region • Coordinating, supporting but mostly learning from the captivating and committed Mediterranean Neighborhood countries in facing their challenges and overcoming them. Their challenges, such as their geographical distance or their very diverse group of JBers, demands a different approach to how they deliver educational activities or even on the neighborhood dynamics (and on how the neighborhood workshop MedNights - is planned). One of the ways to overcome these challenges was by developing inspiring Mosaic projects that you can read more about here • Getting an insight on the NA/PAs needs through JB and working together with the Chapter Development ReCos for a better understanding on how JB could contribute to the Chapter's growth • Setting a strategy for EJB and working towards a better cooperation mainly in regards to Chapter Development in accordance to the variety of the Chapter needs

But the interesting aspect of a volunteer-led organisation is also the path that each volunteers decides to undertake and their commitment when doing so. Indeed, there are opportunities for all types of involvement that I got the opportunity to enjoy at different levels such as: •

At the local / national level, by understanding the

people’s expectations and the possible impact by delivering high quality educational activities. As well as by taking an active role in specific projects or areas. ˝ •

At the regional level, by learning from other

Junior Branches, sharing best practices and developing regional educational projects that aim at overcoming common challenges and having an impact at the local level. ˝ •

At the international level, by experiencing the

diversity and creativity of Junior Branches worldwide as well as get a grasp of CISV’s Global Movement. ˝ Overall, the solemn purpose of Junior Branch shouldn’t be relying on the only outcome of having JBers become active leaders in CISV, but to offer more opportunities for youth to become actors of change and ‘act for a more just and peaceful world’.

Junior Branch has gone through a review in a similar way that CISV went through an Organizational Review before 2012. With such a Review, some things could change and it is important to ensure a smooth transition.

What would be, for you, the key aspects of this transition?

It is important that all questions and concerns are properly raised and discussed in order to facilitate the acceptance of the changes. I believe that in order to have a smooth transition, we should focus on three main aspects:

Ownership By enabling all JBers the opportunity to engage in the discussion and allowing them to raise their voices and to have an impact on the transition. This will allow them to feel ownership of the changes and will make it easier for them to transition when the time comes.

Transparency By communicating more frequently and more transparently about the process. In fact, by ensuring that the information is clearly communicated to all and properly understood will make everyone feel included in the process. This can be achieved by providing regular updates that will allow JBers to transition smoothly in the new structure and properly understand it.

Changing can be scary.

But most of the times, it also enables us to move to new exciting paths.

Accountability After several very stimulating discussions I believe that Junior Branch’s main concern is that it will lose its identity and dynamics by having to merge into CISV International’s structure. In fact, I think that Junior Branch is mostly expecting from this transition, to be reflected in accordance to its creative contribution to the organisation.

By highlighting JB’s positive impact and make the benefits of a better integration clearer at the local and national level.

Nevertheless, the Review will also bring more opportunities for Junior Branch to have a more significant impact on the development of CISV by (for example): • Strengthening the role of Regional Junior Branch Teams and have closer defined links to Regional Delivery Teams • Rethinking on JB’s impact and point of focus in the international committees • Reflecting on the impact of Junior Branch in the required changes of CISV International’s structure to coherently complement the transition

How can JB be more involved in creating and delivering youth training at the Chapter level?

. w ? o t i n o s t r a y e g y r e y n n e a d m n r a o f e h m i c t n r a r u o B y r f io o n t u o l J a h t e i t w a c d i e d v e d ol v o n t i u n o e y e b s e e t v a a iv t o m You h d n a d e t i c x e u o y s p e e k What still

I still get excited and motived to dedicate a lot of my time to CISV because I highly enjoy…

1 Junior Branch’s community •

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Because I get to meet and work with people who are willing to engage and commit for something bigger than them Because of the feeling of ownership and belonging Because no matter our backgrounds and mindsets, we share common problems, concerns and doubts Because the achievement and success of others inspire me to go further

2 The opportunities Junior Branch provides to individuals • • • •

Because I believe in the potential of Youth Because I have experienced CISV’s impact and reach Because by reuniting our efforts for a common goal we can go further Because it allows individuals to keep pushing their limits

3 CISV educational approach • • • •

Because I strongly believe in the potential of Education Because I believe in Peace Education’s relevance for today’s society Because it gives me opportunity to continue learning Because we need to keep our local communities at the heart of our actions

4 The opportunity to actively develop CISV • • • •

Because of the challenge it represents Because there is always room for improvement Because I enjoy looking for creative solutions Because I believe I could bring my piece to the puzzle when it comes to addressing the challenges that Junior Branch and CISV are facing

Besides the Junior Branch Review, what do you think should be the priorities of International Junior Branch this coming year in order to further develop the impact we have and contribute to CISV International Strategic Plan?

International Junior Branch should set realistic targets to support CISV’s mission and vision and further develop the impact it has. For the upcoming year, in my opinion, IJB should focus on:

Foundation - The skills, knowledge and processes we need to succeed

Better documenting our projects (what works and what doesn’t) to maximize, share and develop our impact, by: (F)Maintaining innovation and creativity at the heart of our initiatives (F)Developing adaptable educational content materials aimed at providing to the local chapter’s needs (F)Sharing our successes and achievements to accentuate the feeling of belonging to a Global Movement

Food for thought:

Impact - How well we achieve our mission

Better understanding the quantity and quality of Junior Branch’s impact, by: (I) Measuring our impact in regards to the number of participants in our activities and projects (I) Having an harmonized evaluation of our trainings, activities and workshops (I) Providing planners the tools to monitor and evaluate the project processes (pre-planning, planning, content and evaluation)

In what other areas can International Junior Branch actively contribute to the growth and reach of CISV International?

How can we make International Junior Branch more accessible to all CISVers?

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How does or can International Junior Branch benefit us as an individual JBer? ˝ What other ways exist for Junior Branches to collaborate and work together? ˝ What are the benefits of having a local JBer active in CISV International or International Junior Branch? ˝ How can we contribute to and benefit from being part of this Global Movement?

Profile - The visibility and recognition that comes with and feeds growth

Keeping track of our work with other Like-Minded Organisations (LMOs) and work towards further cooperation, by: (P)Offering more opportunities to active JBers to participate and represent CISV in different conferences and trainings (P)Engaging in developing opportunities for further collaborations (P)Collecting and using the best practices of other NGOs

Resources - The financial and human capital we need to grow

Better supporting JBers to achieve their full potential in the organisation, by: (R)Understanding the needs and expectations of JBers in regards to training (R)Having a bigger overview of the different trainings and share them in accordance to the different needs (R)Assessing JBers motivations and work towards their fulfillment in the organisation

All Junior Branches are part of a Global Movement that is CISV. How do you see CISV and especially Junior Branch continuing to have this strong global link and reach?

International Junior Branch is a network made of likeminded actors of change contributing towards this purpose. They are the ones working towards motivating, empowering and engaging in all kinds of initiatives that contribute to CISV’s mission. To me, this is a very important point that we should make sure to always remember when thinking of CISV’s reach and growth.

Additionally, what links us goes beyond sharing the same goal but also relies on the motivation and inspiration we get from seeing each other in action. Meetings are a big contributor to this feeling of a Global Movement that we shouldn’t underestimate. This strong global link is made possible through all of these human connections.

Our search for quality and impact of our educational activities and projects also enable us to continue having this strong reach. Indeed, the fact that we are constantly assessing our impact, challenging our own methods, and looking for new ways to share and make accessible what is being done contributes to the Global Movement that is CISV.

Some specific examples where CISV’s Global Movement could be perceived in Junior Branch - By running IJB projects on the Content Area of the year

(e.g. Right On, Branch Out, Stand Up, Dig In) - By increasing cooperation between the different regions (e.g. IJB Common Session ran at EJBM, AJBM and that will be run at JASPARC in 2017) - By all the in-person meetings throughout the year: neighborhood workshops, IJBC, regional meetings - By having Regional Teams working together and sharing what is happening on each region - By continuing to have the IJB Team contributing and supporting JBs development

If elected, you will be coordinating IJBC 2018 which will take place along with the Global Conference.

List 3 objectives you would set for IJBC 2018 and how, as IJR, you would work to achieve them.

On one hand, with JB Review on its way, and without having any concrete guidelines on what the future will hold in regards to IJBC, this is a critical time to reflect on the dynamics of the meeting as it is today. On the other hand, Global Conference’s goal for 2018 is to host up to 700 participants, which means almost doubling the number from Global Conference 2015. I would then set 3 different objectives for IJBC 2018 to be fulfilled at 3 different periods:

Better define the positive impact of Junior Branch on the Chapters, by providing participants with:˝ (Rationale: it is important for JBers to understand their impact in their Chapters if they want to communicate it clearly)

BEFORE IJBC 2018

(A)…Willingness to contribute and engage in different CISV areas and projects (S)…Ability to identify their strengths, challenges and the potential that lies in the Global Movement of Junior Branch (K)…Understanding of the potential that lies in educational activities for Junior Branch and Chapter Development

Ensure a better cooperation and collaboration between Chapters and Junior Branch, by providing participants with:˝ (Rationale: having both meetings together should provide the opportunity for participants to actively contribute in setting a growth strategy for their Chapter and/or NA/PA)

DURING IJBC 2018

(A)…Willingness to look for cooperation opportunities inside of the organisation (S)…Ability to develop and plan common projects between Chapters and JB (K)…Understanding of innovative projects happening and highlighting JB’s positive impact in Chapters

Having JBers feel ownership of the overall meeting, by providing participants with:˝ (Rationale: IJBC is a conference that should benefit JBers and provide them with the tools and motivation to strengthen the development of IJB)

AFTER IJBC 2018

(A)…Willingness to run and deliver tailored Junior Branch educational content activities in the Chapters (S)…Ability to apply best practices and to actively contribute to IJB and CISVs growth (K)…Understanding of CISVs global structure to identify further opportunities for collaboration

Nonetheless, and although the role of the IJRs cannot be underestimated in the planning of IJBC, I believe that to achieve these objectives we should all work together towards achieving them. This is why I believe that this process of setting objectives for such a crucial meeting should be a more inclusive and open discussion. In fact, in my opinion the main goal should be for every participant to feel ownership of the meeting and bring home the attitudes, skills and knowledge to be able to develop their own Junior Branch and Chapter.

Take a photo of something or a place in your home that represents you best and tell us why.

I have decided to take a photo of a specific area of my bedroom.

Why? Because although it is very personal, it will also give you an idea of who I am as a room usually reflects someone’s personality.

There are three main things that I would like to describe more thoroughly:

My wall of pictures - I am very much defined by the people who

surround me and who I am close with. They take a lot of place in my decisions, in my behavior and help me shape who I am today.

My ‘In my life I want to’ / ‘In 2017 I want to’ list - I am a fond

believer in goals, in writing down ideas, in thinking about where I will go in my life. It can be something from ‘I want to dance in the rain’ to ‘I want to learn sign language’ (which I am lucky enough to have started at the beginning of the year!).

My desk - Although my bed is very comfortable, I do enjoy spending a

lot of time at my desk. Either to skype, work or draw (or color small drawings - I am not an artist unfortunately but I’m getting better at coloring!), I enjoy having a plain surface on where I can properly work, plan and write in one of my 1,756 notebooks.

thank yo u

thank you for reading!

pipa.raimundo@pt.cisv.org