President Board, Cluj Community Foundation, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, E-mail: bitazerbes@gmail.com, LinkedIn profile of Bita Zerbes

What are your expectations from participating in this particular study trip to Germany?

I am interested in learning from the experiences of other CFs, particularly the functioning of their Boards, but also how they assess their impact and ensure the work of the foundation is truly representative of the needs of the community at large. I expect to return with a broader understanding regarding the diversity of approaches that can work for CFs and thus enrich my capacity to contribute to the work in my own community.

What specific questions related to your work or to CF practice do you ask yourself?

I question our efficacy, impact and how well we are able to truly respond to the needs of our community. I question how we are able to strive towards becoming a community leader promoting collaboration and civic engagement.

How may your participation in the CF study trip help advance your organization’s development plans?:

I think such experiences broaden one‘s vision and understanding leading to a heightened capacity to creatively contribute to the needs of one‘s own community.

Where do you see european community foundations in 20 years?

Widespread and capably making a significant impact at the grassroots in building vibrant, inclusive and prosperous communities around Europe.

What are your favourite colour, your favourite meal or your favourite animal?

Emerald green, sushi, my dog.

Last but not least, your favourite proverb. You can write it down in your mother tongue, but please try to translate the meaning into english:

„So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.“