.
a social CHANGE consultancy
partnering with neighbors,nonprofits, philanthropies,
and public sector organizations
for whole community thriving
Ubuntu Community Cabane
A one year community of practice formed by a local small group,
co-facilitated by Nikki Martin-Bynum and Allison Pinto.
An opportunity to develop an intimate, reflective approach to collaboration among “community keepers:” those particular individuals who are devoted to the good of the community as a whole, as neighbors or as people who work in local organizations and philanthropies.
Community Keepers
REFLECTIVE CONSULTATION HOUR
A monthly virtual drop-in space for Community Keepers
to pause, connect, reflect, unburden, and celebrate
to strengthen skills and capacities for the work of community change.
Additional Offerings
Symbol: Eban (The Fence)
Meaning: Eban represents safety, security, and protection. It suggests that a community is coming together within a safe and protective space, where people can gather to exchange ideas, collaborate, and support one another.
Symbol: Nkyinkyim (Initiative, Adaptability, and Change)
Meaning: Nkyinkyim represents initiative, adaptability, and the ability to change. Focused consultation often requires careful consideration and flexibility, adapting to the needs of the situation. It suggests that during consultations, one must be open to new ideas and approaches, evolving as necessary to find the best solution. also a symbol of dedication to service.
Symbol: Fawohodie (Freedom, Emancipation)
Meaning: Fawohodie symbolizes liberation, freedom, and emancipation - a powerful symbol for speaking engagements, as public speaking often represents a platform to share ideas, free minds, and engage others in conversation. It embodies the power of communication and dialogue in bringing change and creating new possibilities.
Symbol: Duafe (Beauty, Cleanliness, and Care)
Meaning: Duafe symbolizes beauty, cleanliness, and nurturing care. Reflective consultation with place-based practitioners often requires deep listening, understanding, and care in how one engages with local traditions, cultures, and practices. This symbol reflects the idea of nurturing relationships, respecting the wisdom of place, and creating environments that are reflective and thoughtful.
Adinkra symbols are visuals that represent concepts, proverbs, and aphorisms. They originated from the Gyaman people of Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. Hover over each image to learn more.
Stance
We resonate with people who:
Are committed to whole community thriving
Value resident-led transformation
Prioritize equity
Practice systems thinking
Lead with humility & curiosity
Invest in relationships
Are comfortable with vulnerability and “radical candor”
Value reflection
About Us
Nikki Martin-Bynum
nicole@centeringcommunity.com
954.399.1386
Nikki is the child of immigrants, a sister to 8 siblings, an auntie to 40 nieces and nephews, mother to one and Terrence’s wife. She is a certified Jersey girl despite living in Florida for over 15 years. With formal education at Temple University in African American Studies it was there her identity as a Community Keeper–those who act in service of the highest good of their community–was forged. Click below to explore how Nikki shows up as a Neighbor, Community Partner and Philanthropist.
Allison Pinto
allison@centeringcommunity.com
727.225.9362
Allison lives in the Bayou Oaks neighborhood in the Newtown community of Sarasota, Florida, where she takes up the role of neighborhood auntie and grandmother. She works with people in various sectors to translate systems thinking and complexity science, to better understand and navigate equitable community development and collective thriving. She is also a clinical child psychologist with an emphasis on Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health. Click below to read more.
Inspiration
Centering Community draws upon the wisdom of many frameworks and approaches, including:
Click on the links above to explore one of the many resources available in relation to each framework.
Let’s Connect
CALL OR EMAIL
hello@centeringcommunity.com
954.399.1386
SEND Us A MESSAGE
You are also welcome to reach out by sending us a message here. We look forward to exploring possibilities with you soon.
