Intersex Asia (IA) organized a first-ever IA Team training, annual planning, and retreat meeting in person in the stunning and culturally rich location of Bali, Indonesia. This gathering brought together the passionate secretariat staff and esteemed board members of IA for a week-long event from July 13 to July 17, 2024; from 13 to 15 July, were dedicated to the training on OD and finance, annual planning meeting; and the remaining two days, 16 to 17 July were dedicated to the staff retreat.
Annual Planning Meeting – 13 to 15 July 2024 (3 days)
The fruitful reflections during the training and annual planning meeting provided an opportunity for meaningful discussions, team-building activities, and strategic planning at the hotel situated in the middle of Bali’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
The first day of the annual planning meeting was commenced with a period of reflection on the organization’s accomplishments and progress to date. The discussions covered a wide array of topics, from day-to-day operational matters to developing strategic plans for the future. This provided an invaluable opportunity for the staff and the board members to engage in profound and enlightening conversations, where they shared their experiences and gained a more understanding of one another followed by a session of beach walking to reflect on the day’s events.
The second day kicked off with a thoughtful reflection on the events of the previous day. This was followed by an engaging session delving into the personal relationships that participants have with money. The next session allowed all participants to share thoughts on the current funding landscape of IA. This includes discussing the existing funding gaps and exploring creative and innovative strategies to secure resources for IA, ultimately aiming to ensure its long-term sustainability. On the third and final day of the meeting, there was a dedicated session for an extensive and detailed discussion about the long-term capacity-building plans.
“As a co-chair of Intersex Asia, I am very thrilled to personally meet all the staff for the first time at the meeting, this marked as a significant occasion for me to share a broader vision for the enhancement and support of intersex communities, and to discuss the organization’s strategy and direction for the future.”
Jeff B. Cagandahan, Co chair – Intersex Asia
Some of the key points that were discussed in depth and detail during the meeting include;
- Intersex Asia should continue focusing on building grassroots level Intersex partners, and Intersex communities to assist them in managing the grant, and conducting effective advocacy effectively;
- Contribute to achieving the SDG goals; health and well-being; Reduced inequalities; Gender Equality;
- Protecting and safeguarding the Intersex communities by creating enabling policies;
- Engage with donors/funders to mobilize resources for organizational sustainability to continue to serve the intersex communities better.
At the conclusion of the three-day annual meeting, both the staff and board members were able to build stronger connections with each other. This three-day meeting offered a valuable opportunity for the exchange of insights and ideas. Consequently, Intersex Asia was able to devise a comprehensive capacity-building plan, ensuring strategic growth and development for the organization.
Annual Retreat – 16 to 17 July 2024 (2 days)
Following the completion of our annual planning, the entire team, including staff and board members, participated in an annual retreat. This retreat provided a valuable opportunity for everyone to relax through rejuvenating activities such as yoga sessions and massage therapy, allowing everyone to unwind and recharge.
“Inspired by the admirable intentions shown by my colleagues, I felt my own courage grow, motivating me to further my mission to promote the rights of Intersex communities across Asia, the retreat activities allowed me to relax, unwind, and recharge.”
Eli, Cross Movement Building Officer- Intersex Asia.
The annual meeting and retreat was a great opportunity for Intersex Asia board members and staff to sit down together and chalk out the direction for future movement and operation. This 5-day event was fruitful in ensuring our work is well-directed and keeping community impact at the utmost important long-term goal.
