Advocacy and Influencing: Masterclass at 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE Nepal

The 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE gathering in Kathmandu provided the perfect backdrop for an energising and practical masterclass on Advocacy and Influencing—and it did not disappoint. Held on Day 1- 30 April, this session brought together passionate advocates and eye health professionals committed to driving change within their health systems.

The session was led by a powerhouse team of five incredible women facilitators, which I was lucky to be leading. The masterclass was designed to equip participants with the tools and confidence to shape policy, engage decision-makers, and amplify the voice of the eye health community. The key element was the use of the Advocacy Canvas- a practical, visual tool for developing comprehensive advocacy strategies, as a part of a group activity.

Right after the session, I received numerous messages from participants who said they truly enjoyed working with the canvas. Many shared how it helped them visualise and map out their advocacy plans in a clear, structured way-bringing clarity to their ideas and energising their strategies for real-world change. One of the participants remarked that the canvas “provided a holistic picture” of what building an advocacy strategy really looks like.

Participants worked in small groups to brainstorm ideas, build advocacy strategy, and reflect on real challenges they face. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive: “great learning,” “practical tools,” “something I can take away and apply tomorrow.”

As Paula Mukherjee beautifully summarised:

“The masterclass on Advocacy and Influencing in Eye Health equipped eye care professionals with the knowledge and skills to drive policy change, secure support, and raise awareness. Participants learnt to develop advocacy strategy by filling the 9 boxes in the advocacy canvas that included various components like ask, allies, evidence, channels, policy window etc. The group activity empowered attendees in the strategic planning of an advocacy.”

We closed the session not only with new knowledge, but with strengthened connections and a shared sense of purpose.

The Advocacy canvas used in the masterclass can be accessed here: Advocacy canvas