The mission and work of Global Partners in Care are rooted in equity, compassion and shared learning across organizations, contexts and borders. This has been a key part of our partnership program over the years. We have seen the value of fostering sharing across a network of individuals who share a common goal and heart, but each brings unique ideas and perspectives to help all of us think in new and creative ways.
Our collaboration with the Elea Institute allows us to build on this work and engage a larger community within global palliative care. There is so much great work historically and currently in this space, and yet we know the need remains unmet, leaving room for further contribution. Learning from those who have dedicated their lives to developing palliative care globally – and building upon their incredible work – we have launched a new effort to foster increased collaboration, alignment and identify shared opportunities across regions and disciplines.
In May, we welcomed more than 30 palliative care leaders to Dublin, Ireland for the Collaborating for Global Impact Workshop. This two-day, action-oriented convening focused on shared strategy, innovation and meaningful connection. The purpose of the gathering was to consider the future of global palliative care, its current landscape and the potential for action as a global community moving toward a common goal and vision. Our hope is to build on the momentum from the workshop to help create more opportunities to further conversations, harmonize efforts and take collective action. We believe deeply in the power of shared learning and in creating a safe, inclusive space that empowers all. Held at the historic Notre Dame Dublin, the meeting marked the beginning of what we hope will be an exciting movement of innovation and shared strategy.
Moving from Vision to Action
Facilitated by our colleagues at Humaniterra, the workshop utilized a human-centered design approach that emphasized co-creation, creativity and bold ideas. We discussed high-level ideas and how to convert those to actionable strategies. We began by envisioning our Ideal Future for global palliative care and then took a hard look at some of the challenges preventing us from reaching this ideal future.
During the first day, participants mapped current collaborative global efforts, discussed strategic priority areas and co-created potential initiatives to target identified gaps in these areas. By the end of the second day, groups had designed testable ‘catalyst projects’ to move forward after the workshop. Continuing with a human-centered design approach, GPIC will work with these groups to refine and test these catalyst projects with the goal of launching creative new initiatives to address some of the challenges we face in palliative care globally.
The Power of Presence
One of the most impactful elements of the workshop was the diversity of perspectives in the room, from longtime leaders in the field to those newer to global palliative care. Participants came from different geographies and a range of roles and experience: clinicians, administrators, advocates, researchers, funders and communicators. This was intentional; we believe the solutions we need can only come from broad and inclusive collaboration, and fresh perspectives and creativity are vital to innovation and progress. We created a space that allowed connections and conversations that may not have otherwise happened.
Another important aspect of the workshop was the opportunity to be in person. We were able to both deepen long-standing relationships and forge meaningful new ones. This was a core intention of the meeting: to strengthen the global palliative care community through relationship-building, mutual understanding and shared purpose.
Moving Forward Together
This workshop was not an endpoint, but the start of a broad, ongoing engagement. The ideas, roadmaps and relationships seeded in Dublin are already forming the foundation of a shared path forward. We will continue to engage participants in refining and implementing key initiatives. We are also exploring ways to build future convenings and structures that will continue to engage new voices for sustained partnership and progress.
To all who participated, thank you! Your insights, honesty and participation made this gathering a success. We are honored to be in this work with you and more hopeful than ever for the future we are building together.
To learn more about Global Partners in Care or to join the conversation, contact us at info@globalpartnersincare.org.