Donate Now

Acknowledging the Impact Communities Are Creating Using DEFY as a Vehicle

Program Impact

6K+

People

6

Countries

30+ Communities

3 Continents

Shifting the Narrative of Learning
Shifting the Outcomes We Value as a Society

The DEFY Approach to Community and Learning

The DEFY approach to impact measurement is primarily guided by our method of facilitating transformative communities, spaces, and conversations, which champion individual aspirations and promote community cohesion. The programs designed by DEFY engage individuals in processes of gathering, sharing, learning, and building, which further form the core cultural identity that is uniquely DEFY. At DEFY, our impact is measured by questioning, learning, and, if needed, redefining frameworks to center voices that matter.
impact 1

We see communities not as passive beneficiaries, but as leaders of their own social change and collective narrative.

We believe that true, sustainable change does not come from organisations alone, but from communities themselves, where communities are the heroes of their own stories. This means they take charge of their learning, tackle their own challenges, and shape a vision that is meaningful to them. We do not impose an external idea of development, nor do we force a narrow belief that success must mean more money, bigger houses, or better cars. Instead, we create space for communities to decide, collectively and individually, what success looks like for them, and how to achieve it in harmony with people and nature.

BEYOND SDG’S

SDG+: Collective Impact

At DEFY, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a guiding framework. However, we wish to create Impact that are led by Goals which are co-created with the community. We believe this will enable sustainable development in a more substantial and contextual.

SDG+: Collective Impact

At DEFY, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a guiding framework. However, we wish to create Impact that are led by Goals which are co-created with the community. We believe this will enable sustainable development in a more substantial and contextual.

NOOKS

Creating Meaningful Learning Experiences

Building Safe Spaces

77.6% of learners shared that they feel they can easily ask for help from someone at the Nook.

Choice, Self-Reflection and Confidence

71.1% of learners stepped out of their comfort zone by taking up projects they’d never done before.

Diverse Learning Areas

To date, learners have completed more than 600 projects spanning 15 diverse domains of learning.

Finding Purpose for the Future through Learning

88% of Nook learners with at least three years of continued engagement have set a goal for their future, and all of them are currently working, studying, or running a business.

Creating Livelihood Pathways

Longer duration of association with the Nook increases likelihood of livelihood engagement for learners.

Know More

sTORIES OF IMPACT

nook story 1
nook story 2
nook story 3
story 4
story 5
story 6
story 7
story 8
story 9
nook story 1
nook story 2
nook story 3
story 4
story 5
story 6
story 7
story 8
story 9

DISASTER PREPARED COMMUNITY SPACES (DISPECS)

Co-Creating Resilience against Disasters

Re-Imagining Inclusive Community Institutions

For the first time, the community came together to form a Flood Council — ensuring every voice is heard and building the strength to face disasters on their own terms.

Co-creating Community Assets

5+ community projects initiated directly addressing concerns about menstrual health, waste management, water quality, etc.

Facilitating Financial Independence

Women and young people-led initiatives have led the charge to improve economic outcomes.

Co-Building Disaster Response

Established community-led facilitative space to formulate, prototype and implement solutions impacting disaster resilience.

Know More

sTORIES OF IMPACT

Media (2)
Media (3)
Media (4)