Asylum Access – Equitable Partnerships Report
with Asylum Access
Client
Asylum Access
Relationship
Since 2023
Services
Visual Design, Illustration, Print and
publication Design, Art Direction
Empowering Equitable Partnerships
Nature’s interconnectedness teaches us that sustainable solutions require consideration of the entire system.
What Can Nature Teach Us About Equitable Partnerships: A Systems Thinking Perspective
Asylum Access is a global human rights organization dedicated to partnering with forcibly displaced individuals and communities to help them reclaim their rights, agency, and power. With an international presence, Asylum Access operates through national organizations in Malaysia, Mexico, and Thailand, led by local leadership. Over the past 17 years, they have collaborated with local organizations and Refugee-Led Organizations (RLOs) to advance refugee rights and create equitable partnerships.
We are an interconnected whole
We approached this project from the lens of Systems thinking. It is an approach that views the world as a network of interrelated and interdependent elements, rather than isolated parts. It encourages us to understand the complexity of systems by examining the relationships and patterns that emerge from the interactions between different components.
As often, we looked to nature for inspiration and found our muse. Nature serves as a profound example of this interconnectedness, where ecosystems rely on balance and collaboration between species, resources, and environmental factors. Every action in nature affects the whole, from the symbiotic relationships between plants and pollinators to the delicate balance of predator and prey.
Nature’s interconnectedness teaches us that sustainable solutions require consideration of the entire system. By recognizing that no element operates in isolation, we can create more equitable partnerships, where collaboration and mutual benefit are prioritized. Systems thinking reminds us to look at the bigger picture and to design solutions that respect the intricate web of life, ensuring that actions taken in one area positively impact the broader ecosystem.
The Secret Ingredient: The Core Values of Asylum Access as an Organization
We approached this project from the lens of Systems thinking. It is an approach that views the world as a network of interrelated and interdependent elements, rather than isolated parts. It encourages us to understand the complexity of systems by examining the relationships and patterns that emerge from the interactions between different components.
Imagery and representation
We opted for a hand-drawn style to evoke a personal, humane and approachable feel, making the documents more relatable and engaging. The color palette was carefully chosen to match Asylum Access’s brand guidelines, ensuring consistency across all materials.
The illustrations depicted these elements of equitable partnerships, such as:
- Shared understanding of context and culture
- Understanding and acknowledging power
- Valuing diverse local and lived experience and expertise
- Co-design
- Co-leadership
- Voice and visibility
- Relationship building
- Aligned values and expectations
- Mutual accountability
- Shared learning
The final illustrations effectively conveyed the themes of equitable partnerships. They were well-received by Asylum Access and enhanced the overall impact of the position paper and toolkit. The illustrations not only added visual interest but also helped to reinforce the messages of collaboration and mutual respect throughout the documents.
Working with Asylum Access on this project was a rewarding experience. Our illustrations helped bring their important messages to life, contributing to a greater understanding of how to build and maintain equitable partnerships. At We the stories, we are proud to support organizations like Asylum Access that make a positive impact in the world.