Annette Jaitner
Transparency International
The broad variety of Gareth's works for Transparency International reflects his wide skill set and experience: capacity-building in communications and community media, designing advocacy strategies, developing publications (as author, editor, designer, advisor) across a wide spectrum of topics and themes. Gareth's drive, dedication, diligence and exceptional professionalism significantly contributed to the success and impact of Transparency International's Land and Corruption programme.
Isabelle Lemaire
InsightShare
Reliable, driven, on-time, on-spec and creative - that's Gareth Benest, and then so much more. If you want someone who shines with integrity, doesn't settle for less and can move mountains, you've got your man.
Emily Wilson
Oxfam Canada
I first worked with Gareth in 2010, when we worked together to co-design and pilot a Participatory Video project in Southern Africa, to train local facilitators working on issues of women's rights and gender equality. In 2012, we collaborated a second time to coordinate two projects in Central Africa focused on using Participatory Video to support indigenous peoples to address issues of discrimination and to document their knowledge of and relationship to the forest.
Through these experiences of working together, I can attest that Gareth is passionate and knowledgeable about participatory approaches. He is a seasoned facilitator and also has great technical skills. Gareth has a wealth of experience and expertise in Participatory Video and participatory communications more broadly, and can bring many skills and competencies to any team or initiative.
Jenni Kauppila
UN Association of Finland
Gareth Benest is one of those people who are always a pleasure to work with. He makes sure that projects are executed with high level of professionalism, but he does it so that everyone involved has a great time while learning! Gareth is committed to rights-based approach to development and has been a skillful facilitator in our Participatory Video workshops. He is able to find new solutions and encourage the team in front of unexpected challenges.
Michael Okai
Ghana Integrity Initiative
Gareth's dedication, commitment and above all his patience with the participants was amazing and played a major role in the success of the project. It was a real eye-opener for me. Working with Gareth gave me the inspiration and courage to continue fighting for the rights of the marginalised in society.
Gareth is a very talented and patient facilitator. I've worked with him since 2010 on various Participatory Video projects focussed on Indigenous Peoples, climate change and environment. He's a great adviser!