Why Networking
In the business of enterprise networking with social entrepreneurs and their enterprises, and with communities and nonprofits for value creation, social change and transformation through enquiry and research, learning and skills-development, and technology applications
One of the key questions we face in the 21st century is: How do we relate and organise ourselves to work better together in contexts of trust and recognition of difference? We in AISE believe that the formation of local and global networks that are based on shared values, mutualism, recognition and valuing of difference, established social end political relationships that are reciprocal, multiple and diverse are central to answering this question. Networks are fundamental to the achievement of social change and transformation in our contemporary world. We see networks not simply as means or strategy but as ends in themselves because they can house and embed the goals of social change. There are many benefits of networking all of which are essential in supporting social entrepreneurs and their work.
Shared values may appear in several ways. Foremost of these are the values that guide our social entrepreneurship practices. These include among others, social justice, access-equity, resilience, inclusiveness, persistence and others all of which tend to create a common bond that generates ad sustains an ‘entrepreneurial spirit’ among social entrepreneurs. Shared values are reflected in our vision and mission for a ‘common good’ that powers social change through entrepreneurship.
Shared values more often than not relate to our goals that focus on social change which is the basis for the “passion” that drives social entrepreneurs. And this “passion” is more often observed as something that is ‘caught’ but can be ‘taught’. It does not require a social entrepreneur to be a ‘redeemer’ but one who recognizes that his/her passion is driven by goals of social change and transformation — an intensely human and moral activity.
AISE sees itself as acting as the guardian rather than the owner of the networks with which it is associated. We always aim to ensure that the values and skills of members of our network ‘fit’ the values of the network; and we support the creation of clearly defined values with which members may both identify and acquire an identity.
» More about the benefits of networking
OR
Review aspects of AISE’s networking activities and our values, vision and mission by clicking on one or more of the highlighted words.