We harness collective power
Since 2012, FabRiders has been at the forefront of building, refining, and iterating participatory and network-centric practices to empower social change movements & initiatives. Founded and led by Dirk Slater, whose career spans nearly three decades of convening people in diverse contexts.
Deep experience in participatory and network-centric approaches
Our nearly 30 years of work have centred on building and refining participatory, network-driven models that empower organisations, networks and communities to drive social change. This longevity has allowed us to iterate and adapt our practices to a wide range of contexts and challenges, ensuring relevance and effectiveness over time.
Emphasis on co-creation, shared ownership, and inclusion
A core lesson from our experience is the value of co-creating solutions with stakeholders. By engaging participants in the design and implementation of projects, they foster a sense of ownership and agency, which is critical for sustainability and impact. Our facilitation methods prioritise inclusion and the intentional management of power dynamics, especially in virtual and remote settings.
Iterative, feedback-driven methodologies
We have consistently integrated feedback loops into our processes, using real-time input and reflection to adapt projects and workshops. This iterative approach ensures that strategies remain aligned with the evolving needs of participants, networks and communities, distinguishing our work from more rigid, fixed-plan consultancies.
Focus on capacity building and social learning
Over three decades, we have developed and led numerous capacity-building initiatives and social learning experiences. These are designed to transfer knowledge and empower individuals and teams to build peer networks, strengthen team cohesion, and develop facilitation skills that support long-term collective action.
Flexibility and adaptability across diverse contexts
FabRiders’ extensive experience has underscored the importance of adapting methods to fit unique cultural and organisational contexts. Our global perspective is balanced by a sensitivity to local needs, ensuring that solutions are both practical and culturally appropriate.
Shared visions of success, theories of change and strategies
Our experience highlights that organisations aiming for social change benefit from engaging stakeholders in developing a clear vision of success, theory of change and the strategic planning process. This fosters shared ownership, inclusivity, and a stronger drive for meaningful impact.
Technology in service to communities and mission
We are committed to social justice and mission-driven work, ensuring that technology is always in service to the people and causes we support. Our approach centres the needs, context, and wisdom of each community, allowing us to remain adaptable and responsive to their unique challenges. We believe that technology should empower communities to achieve their goals, not dictate their direction.
Commitment to collective power and social justice
A defining principle throughout FabRiders’ history has been a focus on building collective power and supporting social justice movements. Rather than being technology- or platform-centric, their work is issue-focused and rooted in supporting organisations to resist repression and create just alternatives.
Our decades of experience have demonstrated that sustainable social change is best achieved through participatory, adaptive, and inclusive processes that prioritise co-creation, continuous learning, and a deep commitment to collective power to drive social justice.