International Conference on Strengths-Based Practices – 2006

The inaugural International Conference on Strengths-Based Strategies was jointly organized by the Brisbane Institute of Strengths-Based Practices and Sanghamitra, an India-based NGO. The conference was held in November 2006 in Hyderabad, India, and marked the first internationally organized event by an Australian institute in this domain. Its primary objective was to foster global interconnectedness among individuals and communities seeking local solutions through strengths-based approaches.

The principal collaboration was with Sanghamitra, a rural development organization based in the Medak district of Andhra Pradesh. Generous support from the AUSAID International Seminar Support Scheme (ISSS) enabled the participation of two key resource persons from the Pacific region—Papua New Guinea and Australia. Additionally, the Australia India Society extended partial financial assistance for three conference speakers.

Several grassroots fundraising initiatives played a vital role in supporting this effort. Led by Ms. Christine Radke, events such as pie runs, “Dine for Development” nights, and wine sales not only raised essential funds but also strengthened the commitment and unity of the organizing committee. These efforts reflected the deep sincerity and dedication behind the cause.

Further support for the conference came through a donation of INR 50,000 from UAE Foreign Exchange, facilitated and recommended by Mr. Karuppiah Ramanathan (Ram), the State Manager for UAE Foreign Exchange in Australia. In-kind contributions, including handloomed towels from Solapur (crafted by artisan weaver families), pens, and conference bags, were generously provided by the family of Mr. Sunil and Mrs. Rajeshwari Gurram of Ipswich.

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) provided a grant to support the development of conference materials in CD-ROM format. The Rural Social Workers Action Group of Victoria awarded three student scholarships to facilitate their attendance. Furthermore, several government agencies, the Australian Institute of Families, and a number of NGOs supported the event by hosting publicity materials free of charge.

CharityFocus also awarded a dedicated website for the conference, which received high visibility and ranked among the most visited sites during the year of the event.