In a new blog, Virginie Martin-Onraët explores the importance of being able to make a difference in her home country and region through her work as a Facilitation Consultant with CollaborateUp.

Tell us a little bit about the work you do as a Facilitation Consultant  for CollaborateUp.

I began working with CollaborateUp in 2021 when they were seeking a French-speaking facilitator for co-creations in Mali and Morocco. My first few projects, I worked alongside Nanette Alvey, who taught me all about the co-creation process. After supporting three or four workshops, I transitioned to leading them as a facilitator. Since then, I’ve conducted many virtual co-creations across Africa and Central America, along with in-person sessions in Latin America. I truly enjoy working with the CollaborateUp team—it has been an incredible experience that has enabled me to sharpen my skills in guiding discussions, moderating, organizing, and fostering creativity. The collaborative dynamic has been key to my personal growth and my professional path. 

Why is it important to you to work in your own country/region?

I was born in France to a Colombian mother and French father, and I have lived in Mexico since I was 6. My identity is deeply shaped by the Latin American region, and working here is incredibly important to me because I believe in the power of grassroots action to create systemic change. Through my work, I focus on addressing challenges related to gender inequality, preventing gender-based violence, access to services, and social inclusion across Latin America. Our region faces unique issues that require locally rooted solutions, and being on the ground allows me to connect directly with communities, understand their lived experiences, and co-create initiatives that are contextually relevant.

How is CollaborateUp supporting you to make a difference in your country/region?

CollaborateUp has been instrumental in enhancing the participatory processes in the work I do with Personas, particularly surrounding gender-based violence (GBV) prevention. They have helped us integrate co-creation methods into every aspect of our work—whether it’s research, strategic planning, or workshops—ensuring that the communities and organizations we work with are active participants in shaping the solutions. This participatory approach has made our interventions more inclusive and effective, enabling us to develop products and services that truly reflect the needs and realities of the people we aim to serve. By strengthening these collaborative processes, CollaborateUp has been key for us to create more impactful and sustainable strategies for preventing GBV and promoting gender equity across the region.