Welcome to another special series of the podcast Walk Talk Listen, where we're on a journey to explore the influential work of the Joint Learning Initiative on Faith and Local Communities (JLI). In this new special series we will attempt in every episode to focus on a unique voice - individuals from varied backgrounds like non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and JLI itself. Our aim? To delve deep into personal narratives and expert insights about the significant role of JLI at the crossroads of faith and development.
 
In this episode, we have the privilege of hosting Emma Tomalin, a remarkable individual whose experiences and viewpoints add a new dimension to our understanding of JLI's impact. We'll hear about Emma's journey, how she/he/they intersected with JLI, and her/his/their take on how this initiative is bridging critical gaps in religious and development literacy.
 
Through these conversations, we seek to uncover the real stories behind the collaborative efforts, the challenges faced, and the victories celebrated in the realm of faith-based community development. Our guests bring to the table their unique perspectives, shedding light on how JLI's approach to joint learning and collaborative problem-solving is not just theory but practice that's making a tangible difference.
 
Join us as we navigate these enlightening discussions, gaining a deeper appreciation of the diverse ways JLI influences and inspires those working towards a more understanding and cohesive world. Let's discover together how their stories and insights reflect the broader significance of JLI in shaping a better future for communities around the globe.
 
Emma Tomalin is Professor of Religion and Public Life at the University of Leeds in the UK. She has published widely on the topic of religion and international development. She is the author of 'Religions and Development' (2013), published by Routledge,  and the editor of the 'Routledge Handbook on Religions and Global Development' (2015). She currently co-chairs the JLI Learning Hub on Anti-Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, and has partnered with the JLI on a number of projects. The most recent of these is a study to better understand the impact of discourses about decolonisation and localisation on the experiences and activities of  faith actors who contribute towards development. The results of that project will be published in 2024. 
 
Social media handles of the University of Leeds: TwitterFacebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok  and YouTube
 
Please let me/us know via our email [email protected] what you think about this new series. We would love to hear from you. Please feel free to reach out to us. Send an email to [email protected], or contact us through our platform. We welcome your thoughts, questions, and proposals for collaboration. I'll personally ensure that your interest is directed to the right people at JLI, helping you connect with a network of individuals and organizations dedicated to creating a better world through faith-informed development.
 
Please like/follow our Walk Talk Listen podcast and follow mauricebloem on twitter and instagram.  Or check us out on our website 100mile.org.  We also encourage you to check out the special WTL series Enough for All about an organization called CWS.  The 11th 100 mile walk campaign is finished find more info via de 100mile.org website.

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