Global Voices: Inspiring Stories from Our IFS Community

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Welcome to our testimonials page, where we celebrate the inspiring stories and impactful experiences of our IFS members from around the world. These voices highlight the power of our global community, showcasing how IFS membership fosters connections, learning, and meaningful change. Read on to discover how IFS has made a difference in the lives and work of our dedicated members.

Sree Nalhamothu – Canada “IFS membership has granted Toronto Neighbourhood Centres extraordinary opportunities to connect with social justice work globally. It facilitates an exchange of insights and resources, helping us work with a more expansive vision. IFS also builds community across nations, grounded in shared values of social and economic justice.”

Chris Hanway – Jacob Riis “Full membership in IFS has transformed our organization. Riis Settlement is now part of an international network, offering us peer learning and support from practitioners worldwide. This has brought fresh perspectives and a deeper social-justice focus to everything we do.”

Paul Sekfy – Australia “IFS has informed my community development work since 2016. The work of our IFS member family addresses social justice, democracy, and powerful stories about locals solving local challenges. I have learned innovative approaches and made strong global friendships, making our organizations and communities stronger together.”

Liz – Canada BC “As a member of the IFS Board, attending the IFS Conference in Lille was a privilege. The conference facilitated challenging conversations that encouraged many of us to rethink our approaches and perspectives, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and mutual gratitude.”

Dorothy Quon – WoodGreen, Canada “IFS has connected me with a broad network of likeminded agencies worldwide, informing our work at WoodGreen. The IFS Conference in Lille provided new connections, ideas, and a supportive community that I can reach out to for expertise.”

Rochelle McAllister – WoodGreen, Canada “Participating in the IFS conference in Lille was a professional highlight. Meeting colleagues from around the world for stimulating discussions on community building was enriching. Learning through the conference was educational, creative, and fun.”

Anne Babcock – WoodGreen, Canada “I’m proud to be part of IFS. It champions collective efforts to address global issues. For anyone looking to expand their professional horizons and make a real difference in the world, IFS membership is invaluable.”

Roy Douglas – TINADA Kenya “IFS membership has been incredibly beneficial, providing access to a global network of like-minded professionals and valuable resources. The IFS conference offered diverse sessions and workshops that deepened my understanding of community development strategies.”

Sophie Michelena – France “Being part of IFS is an open door to learning new skills, reflecting, and discovering new contexts and cultures.”

Eva Bertalan – Austria “We are very grateful for the professional network and expertise we access through IFS. The experience of visiting similar projects across the globe is inspiring and strengthening. Knowing we are part of a global movement makes us stronger in our everyday work.

The Lille Conference was exceptionally well organized. The gathering of professionals from all parts of France and around the world was awe-inspiring. The creativity, experience, and shared passion for shaping a better future made the event powerful. Connecting with other professionals in our field was invaluable. The joy and motivation of all involved were touching, and the final long-table for all participants was inspiring—a concept we have embraced.”

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