Dr Elena Saggioro, Walker Institute alumna, presenting in session 4 of Engaging with Decision Makers training.
On 25th June 2025, the Walker Institute hosted Session 4 of its Engaging with Decision Makers training, led by Dr. Celia Petty and Prof. Rosalind Cornforth, with special guest contributions from Dr. Elena Saggioro (Climate Change Committee, UK) and James Acidri (Food Security Analyst and Consultant). This session marked a pivotal moment in the training, transitioning participants from conceptual learning to the practical development of their own engagement strategies.
Session Focus: Designing Your Engagement Strategy
The session opened with a brief recap of previous discussions on power and positionality. Guest speakers shared their experiences of working with policy makers, offering practical insights and answering participant questions. Attendees then explored the broader policy environment and took part in a group carousel activity to identify the resources and collaborations needed for impact. The session concluded with participants starting to map out their own engagement strategies.
Tools Introduced
Participants were introduced to several tools to support their planning. The AIIM Matrix and 3i Analysis helped identify key stakeholders and assess their influence. The Capstone Planning Template provided a structure for outlining goals, activities, and risks. Carousel facilitation encouraged peer learning and reflection. Together, these tools offered a practical foundation for building effective engagement strategies.
Guest Speaker Reflections
Dr. Elena Saggioro emphasized the importance of tailoring communication to different policy audiences and navigating complex policy cycles. James Acidri shared insights from his humanitarian work, stressing the need for evidence-based advocacy and strategic partnerships to influence food security policies.
Looking Ahead
The journey continues with a deeper dive into how researchers can become effective agents of change within policy environments.