Our Work in 2024
The work we do in Sazani is multifaceted and evolving. Here are highlights of the last six months
Education work
Cathryn and Nikki, of Sazani Associates facilitated a meeting of the Bulgarian and Italian communities of practice at the Institute of study of the Change in Sofia, as part of VECTOR Project’s Education research. This Professional Learning Community, that gathered in May agreed a series of actions to disseminate and promote research outcomes.
A platform for teachers to share resources, lesson plans, and interactive tools.
A short animation which can be used, by teachers, to engage students in this debate.
An academic paper which describes collaborative process of participatory action learning and action research and final research findings
Panellists in the Responsible Raw Materials Conference "Burtsing the Bubble"
Discussing our work in Vector and contributing to conversations regarding societal use of resources and sustainability, EU Green Deal, 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HecQzLkzA0
ESG profiling
Throughout our involvement in the Vector project, a significant focus has been on conducting credible social scans using an anthropological perspective. Social scans have been crucial in mapping out both the environmental and sociological situations of communities. This approach has enabled us to gain a comprehensive understanding of the companies we engage with, in close relation to various mining operations, allowing us to see different perspectives from all stakeholders and those affected by the operations.
We have created a diagnostic approach to give a comprehensive summary of the companies and regions as well as a refined understanding of each locality and mining company's sustainable and ethical endeavours. This work has also prepared us to extend the scanning process for corporate scans, and corporate bodies in the sector.
Launch of our Volunteer programme in Zanzibar
The beginnings of a voluntourism scheme with a difference- established to support the local community, address local needs and foster sustainable change through training and empowerment activities:
For more information click here
ESG Reviews and Assessments
As technical service providers to the public and private sectors we regularly undertake ESG due diligence reviews for investors, mergers and acquisitions or as a critical friend to help a project prioritise their ESG focus . We have developed a series of bespoke tools to assess and evaluate Environmental, Social and Governance performance and guide projects in the mitigation of risks identified. For more information get in touch: info@sazaniassociates.org.uk
Tips and slips remote monitoring
Sazani is proactively addressing the management of mining waste tips and slips in Wales by developing an innovative approach to enhance resilience at all levels. Recognizing the need for action, we are creating a solution that leverages cutting-edge data from both in-situ measurements and remote sensing. This will provide Welsh policymakers with the tools and insights needed to manage mining waste more effectively. Our comprehensive list of category C and D sites will serve as the foundation for engaging with local authorities and delivering tailored support. With no current plans in place for catastrophic collapses, Sazani is stepping in to fill the gap, offering a clear, actionable path to strengthening resilience for communities across Wales. We are committed to driving this forward and ensuring the Welsh Government has the resources to build a safer, more prepared future
IOM3 Awards
On the 5th of December 2024, Cathyrn was awarded the Outstanding Contribution Award for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3). Drawing on her extensive background in sustainable rural livelihoods, community engagement, and global learning, she has significantly influenced national policies and transnational development programs. Her work has been instrumental in promoting social justice, particularly for girls, women, and marginalized communities, through initiatives like educational programs in Zanzibar and structural changes in mining practices.
Cathryn's efforts emphasize moving the mining sector away from paternalistic practices, advocating for cultural awareness, inclusiveness, and a broader perspective on risk. Her work has supported companies in understanding the importance of engaging with Indigenous peoples and marginalized voices, helping reshape how the sector views communities and dissenting perspectives. As a social scientist, she has continuously challenged rigid industry boundaries, championing sustainable development and equity with compassion and determination. A big congratulations to her!
Read more about why the award was won here: https://www.iom3.org/events-awards/awards/awards-archive/award-winners-2024.html