Organizational Capacity Building Activities
On April 23, 2025, the organization held a training session titled Success Factors for Effective Teamwork, led by Mr. Wassim Al-Haj. The session sought to introduce team members to the definition of a work team, clarify its distinction from a simple workgroup, and outline the steps necessary for building an effective and cohesive team. The training emphasized the importance of individual awareness, as each member was encouraged to introduce themselves, highlight personal traits they wished to share with colleagues, and reflect on their own strengths and weaknesses—focusing on how these attributes could impact the organization's work either positively or negatively.
A significant portion of the session was dedicated to explaining the five foundational elements for a successful team: building trust, engaging constructively in differences, maintaining commitment, embracing accountability, and focusing on tangible results. Through this approach, the training aimed to elevate the team's overall efficiency, improve members’ understanding of their rights and responsibilities, and support the development of stronger professional relationships within the organization. The anticipated outcome is a more capable and cohesive team, working together at the highest level achievable.
On April 24, 2025, the organization convened a meeting for the newly formed research team, facilitated by Dr. Mohammad Mobyyed. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce new members to one another and to lay the foundation for a collaborative and trustworthy working environment. Participants received an overview of the organization’s mission and its various programs before presenting their own backgrounds, areas of expertise, and the specific contributions they hope to bring to the research sector, with particular attention to the upcoming Urban Observatory Program.
The meeting focused on setting clear goals for the research center, determining the primary fields of research, and identifying the expected outcomes of their efforts. Discussions also addressed the importance of recruiting specialized researchers in priority areas, establishing partnerships with local and international organizations, academic institutions, and relevant government agencies, and exploring funding opportunities from international donors. An emphasis was placed on the need to adhere to the highest standards of research ethics, including the protection of participants’ privacy. The meeting concluded with an agreement to work toward the formal establishment of a qualified research team, with the aim of launching the Urban Observatory Program within the next six months.
On April 26, 2025, Dr. Mohammad Mobyyed. conducted an introductory session on strategic planning for the organization’s volunteer members. The session provided a foundational overview of strategic planning, tracing the evolution of its definitions throughout history and highlighting its importance in institutional work. Participants were introduced to the core principles and practical steps of strategic planning, with the aim of equipping them to engage more effectively in organizational development.
The session was designed to raise the volunteers' capacities, encouraging them to contribute more actively to shaping the organization’s vision and future projects. By grounding the team in strategic thinking, the organization seeks to foster a more organized, purposeful, and sustainable approach to its work.