In Mexico City, climate change exacerbates existing social inequalities, with vulnerable communities bearing the brunt of environmental degradation and extreme weather events. makesense has been
actively working on this issue by partnering with local organizations to enhance urban resilience, improve water management, and promote sustainable development in underserved areas. Through these efforts, we empower local leaders to address climate challenges within their communities, ensuring that environmental solutions are both equitable and impactful. This project will focus on developing innovative approaches to mitigate the social impacts of climate change while fostering community-led action.

Gender violence remains a critical challenge in Mexico, with widespread social and structural inequalities contributing to this issue. makesense has established partnerships with local NGOs and grassroots organizations to address gender violence by supporting community-driven initiatives that empower women and advocate for
gender equity. This project will emphasize capacity building, raising awareness, and creating safe spaces for women to thrive. By fostering local leadership and collaboration, we aim to generate sustainable change in combating gender violence, transforming communities from
within.

Medellín has become a global reference for urban transformation and innovation, yet it still faces profound challenges related to peace and social resilience. makesense has been at the forefront of initiatives that promote reconciliation, social inclusion, and the healing of communities affected by decades of conflict. By working closely with local organizations, scholars’ projects aim to strengthen social resilience through leadership development, dialogue, and collaborative community projects, equipping the next generations for
social cohesion.

Making sure the French senior population is getting the attention, care and infrastructures they deserve. Makesense has been working for over 5 years on specific challenges such as: co-living space for the senior population, mobility, accessibility in the public space, and developing new social bonds. Innovation and community engagement are keys to bringing about long-term change, that is why we work hand in hand with over 100 public institutions and field actors throughout France, and Marseille.

Drastically reducing wastes and plastics in the sea, to conserve critical habitats and species. Makesense is committed to raising public awareness and supporting grassroot actions to protect sea life. Our goal is to support NGOs who are already very proactive on the field, but need a more radical change of behavior, as well as more forces and volunteers on the ground.

“I enjoyed how the program pushed me beyond my comfort zone. I was able to work with a team, learn from a team and eventually lead a team. I gained a lot of leadership, time management, program planning and virtual facilitation experience. I will continue to use what I learned from my time at the programme, to positively impact the fight against climate change”.
– Saeeda

“Thanks to the re_action team, training, team sessions, and volunteers. The deliverable of the project, presented as a social media campaign, is the result of bringing together interests and passions with skills to empower myself and others to be part of the chain of reaction in leading change”.
– Raquel

“I believe the program taught me how to effectively lead a team and delegate tasks based on interest. It also showed me the ways in which team dynamics or plans may change and ways we can best adapt to a short time frame. Overall, it also taught me the effect of research and planning that goes into any organizing project”.
– Elina