You’ve probably seen the #DoneWithSilence campaign that launched on the Choma platform. I wanted to create a space where people can feel free and safe to have conversations around gender inequality and social injustice. While my platform is an awesome place to voice out your views and concerns, I know that speaking about these issues is only the first step. The second step is actually doing something about them and I’m going to help you do just that. Here’s a Choma approved kit to get you started.

Step 1: Learn more about your community

Think of yourself as a bit of a social scientist who’s interested in solving social issues in your community. Like any social scientist, you need to do your research. Find out what issues your peers, family members, neighbours and organisation are done being silent about. Your social media platform is also a good resource to get information.

Step 2: How can you help?

Once you know what your community needs. Think about how you want to help. For example, you can start a non-government organisation (NGO), support groups or an awareness campaign on social media.

Use these questions to help you decide:

What community issue are you most passionate about?

What can you do to help that will best use your talents and available resources?

What sort of time commitment are you able and willing to make?

What do you need to do in order to start helping?

You can also look at other NGOs  and community organisations for help

Step 3: Set reachable goals

Before you start changing the world and making an impact, it’s important to keep in mind that the issues you want to address in your community may not be solved quickly and easily. A lot of work might need to be done. So, set practical and realistic goals. You can do this by setting short- and long-term goals. If there’s a setback, don’t be afraid to go back to the drawing board.

Step 4: Action Plan

An action plan will help you accomplish your goals. So, think about the resources you’ll need for your project to run. For example, willing volunteers can offer their talents and skills. You might need resources such as chairs, paper, food etc. A budget  and/or proposal is needed if money will be involved.

Step 5: Commit to seeing it through

Now that you’re certain about how you’re going to meet your goals. It’s time to put in real time and effort to create change. Just because it requires hard work, doesn’t mean it’s impossible. So, don’t give up, see it through!

There you have it, Choma – your very own #DoneWithSilence starter kit to help you make an impact in your community. While it may take time to kick start your project and a lot of hard work might need to go into it, remember that great things take time and effort. Good luck!

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).