Category: CLO Work

The start of Local-Link: From Crisis to Opportunity

In October 2017, a massive storm swept through parts of KwaZulu-Natal, causing widespread destruction in suburbs like Bluff and Amanzimtoti. The storm left homes damaged and entire neighborhoods reeling. It was during this chaotic time that I found myself at a crossroads—a turning point that would eventually lead to the inception of Local-Link, a project that’s been in the making since 2018.

I still vividly remember the day after the storm. The power was out, and I headed to the … Click here to read more

Opportunity Is Often Missed Because It’s Dressed in Overalls and Look Like Work

As I was managing spreadsheets, overseeing CLOs, and navigating the complexities of construction projects, one quote from Thomas Edison kept playing in my mind: “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” This quote has never felt truer than in the process of developing Local-Link. What started as small, manual tasks slowly transformed into a massive opportunity—though at the time, it just looked like a lot of hard work.

When I brought … Click here to read more

Project Planning as a CLO

Mastering Project Planning as a Community Liaison Officer: A Comprehensive Guide

As a Community Liaison Officer (CLO), effective project planning is the cornerstone of your role. From initiating public participation to breaking ground and overseeing ongoing developments, your actions significantly influence both the project’s success and the community’s well-being. This guide delves deeper into practical steps you can implement to enhance your project planning skills, ensuring positive outcomes for all stakeholders in the South African context.

1. Begin with Active

… Click here to read more

Effective Communication Strategies for CLOs

As a Community Liaison Officer (CLO), communication is one of your most powerful tools. The success of your projects and the trust you build within the community depend largely on how well you can convey information, listen to concerns, and resolve conflicts. But communication is more than just talking—it’s about connecting with people, understanding their needs, and ensuring that everyone involved feels heard and respected.

In this post, we’ll explore strategies to help you become a more effective communicator, drawing … Click here to read more

Knowing the Law as a CLO

Navigating Legal and Regulatory Requirements as a CLO

As a Community Liaison Officer (CLO), especially one with experience working on larger projects, your role extends beyond basic community engagement to include a deep understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that governs your work. This topic is more relevant for advanced CLOs who have been involved in complex projects, such as large infrastructure developments, rather than short-term assignments like road repairs or sidewalk maintenance. However, it’s crucial for all CLOs, … Click here to read more

RE: Continuous Learning and Professional Development for CLOs

The Importance of Continuous Learning in the CLO Role

As a CLO, your role is dynamic. The needs of the community, the demands of the project, and the regulatory environment are all in constant flux. This means that staying static is not an option. Continuous learning allows you to stay ahead of the curve, adapt to new challenges, and ensure that you are always equipped to serve both your community and your project effectively.

Continuous learning isn’t just about acquiring … Click here to read more

A Guide to being a CLO

(Community Liaison Officer)

In many communities, particularly in the context of large infrastructure projects, the role of a Community Liaison Officer (CLO) is essential yet often misunderstood. A CLO serves as a bridge between the community and the companies or organizations working within that community. However, despite the critical nature of this role, few people fully grasp what a CLO does or the impact they can have on both the community and the project.

As someone who has spent many … Click here to read more

My Experience Volunteering

Volunteering has been a cornerstone of my life on the Bluff in Durban, the place where I grew up and a community I deeply care about. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving on various committees and structures, all with one goal in mind—strengthening our community. Whether it was through economic development, public safety, or youth engagement, every role I took on was about making a meaningful contribution to the Bluff.

One of my earliest experiences was with … Click here to read more

The need for Civic Technology in South Africa.

Civic Technology: Unlocking the Potential of CLO Work in South Africa

In a country as diverse and complex as South Africa, the role of Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) has never been more crucial. These professionals act as vital intermediaries between communities and the organizations or government entities that serve them, ensuring that local voices are heard, needs are met, and projects are implemented effectively. However, despite their importance, CLO work often faces significant challenges, from bureaucratic inefficiencies to a lack … Click here to read more