Learning from an Expert: An Integrator

Last week, I attended a "write shop" on international coastal management (ICM). A regional expert, Dr. Chua, lead the discussion on existing ways to address the issue and how it can be improved. In the process, he said that part of the solution is having the right people aside from other aspects of an enabling environment. 

Any endeavor needs the right person - the best possible fit available. 

But there are fields that require a mixed set of skills and mindset. And in a world changing towards a direction where a broader view and understanding is required to give specific solutions, integrators come to fore. Devex published an article on the rising need for integrators in development last year. So it's not about knowing just a little of everything for a big picture but being able to stitch the different pieces together to create a whole. 

Complimenting my fondness on the usefulness of an integrator in international development, Dr. Chua mentioned one thing that struck me: to provide solutions to ICM, the persons involved must:

1. Be technical like a scientist so he understands the systematic nature of the problem and solution.

2. Work like a manager because he will coordinate with a lot of agencies and deliver solutions.

3. Speak like a diplomat because let's face it: you have to work even with your enemies (e.g. a mining company) to get the solutions that you need. 

As I sat there, I realized Dr. Chua's requirement was more than just being a mere integrator because not everyone can possess all three. I dare to say very few - that's why experts are hired! But such tall order for an even more daunting task - to save the world via coastal management.

And really lastly, he said coastal management is not just cleaning the beach, it's city coordination - working with the government, residents, business and other stakeholders in the area. Of course this appeals to me because of how much I abhor "pa-cute" development work. 

On a lighter note, the afternoon snack was a purple puto (steamed rice cake) with stir-fried noodles served with pink guava juice, which most of us were reluctant to drink. Oh the uniqueness of Filipino government meriendas. I've gotten so used to coffee, tea, cake or biscuits in the afternoon that this is novelty.