Report: Inquiry into bridging from the edges

“Bridging is the practice of creating the conditions to work across differences in the context of working to shift harmful systems and cultures. This initiative/ inquiry is focuses on bridging the practice of bridging when one is located outside of the dominant system”.

We are excited to announce the release of our latest report, Inquiry into Bridging from the Edges, a collaborative effort between the Illuminate Network and The Systems Sanctuary. Bridging across differences is a core skill in systems leadership, yet as a field, there are gaps in understanding this practice from nondominant spaces.

This report explores the crucial role of "bridgers" — individuals who navigate across different communities, power structures, and systems to create meaningful change. Often working from non-dominant spaces, these leaders bring together diverse perspectives and practices, including Indigenous, feminist, and intersectional movements, to push the boundaries of systems change.

Through interviews, peer learning cohorts, and deep dive sessions with social change leaders from the UK, North America, Australia, and South Africa, the inquiry uncovers the challenges, opportunities, and patterns that emerge in bridging practices. The report delves into the experiences of these systems leaders and their vital role in decentering dominant systems while championing equity and justice.

Meet the cohort: