“I want to be part of the movement that builds a case and influences the development discourse with a more people led paradigm shift that brings power to the ‘ground’ at all levels. This fellowship provides me the opportunity to contribute towards changing mind-sets, behaviours and practices that have shaped development and poverty reduction initiatives over the years (but have not succeeded as expected). The fellowship will also provide me the opportunity to learn from others in the ever changing development architecture. I believe that by the end of my fellowship, we will have pooled knowledge together for sharing and learning that will contribute towards influencing development policy and practice.”