TSC's REN Model: Building Networks

What does it mean to connect? How can we best help one another?

How can we create conditions for people and organizations to thrive collaboratively and to look to each other for support?

TSC has always been a place in which BIPOC trans leaders can find connections with one another. Some TSC coaches have gone on to be long-term mentors for organizations they have coached. Some have become board members. Many have become friends or supportive thought partners with leaders they first met through a TSC project.

At TSC, we used to think of these connections as a wonderful side product of our capacity building work. But now we see that these connections are the work. That the cultivation of networks is inextricable from our work to redefine resources and leverage expertise.

Once we realized that the extensive networks of mutual support within the TSC community actually were one of our resources, we followed our own model to explore how to build on and deepen this resource to build strong foundations for long-term changemaking.

An intentional focus on fostering networks and connections is now a core part of our work.

• When we notice an organizational need, we ask ourselves: Who in our network might be able to help?
• When we plan to speak at a conference or event, we ask ourselves: Who in our network can we lift up alongside us?
• When we learn of a new resource, we ask ourselves: Who in our network needs to know about this?
• When we have a question or need to brainstorm, we ask ourselves: Who in our network can we talk to?

When we begin from the understanding that what we need can already be found with and through our networks, we can all grow stronger together.

• Strong ties and weak ties
• You already know the person who will get you to the next step
• Fostering genuine connections

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