Joachim is passionate about social justice and co-creation. In 2014, he left his NGO career to embark on a mission to support like-minded civil society actors and social entrepreneurs in becoming more powerful and innovative. Together with his colleagues, he started the Civil Society Academy, which initially became active in India and then expanded to many parts of the world. In 2023, Joachim founded the Civil Society Academy International as a social enterprise in Germany. Joachim is an outstanding trainer and coach. He loves facilitating collective processes for organizations and networks that are fun and creative, yet focus on creating impact with disadvantaged groups. He excels in producing results in leadership, culture, innovation, and strategy. After more than 20 years in Africa and Asia, he is now based in Berlin.

With over 20 years of experience in national and international NGOs and government ministries, Bunrithy specializes in providing comprehensive training, coaching, and capacity development services at grassroots, national, and regional levels. His expertise includes Do No Harm and Conflict Sensitivity, Organizational Development, Leadership and Team Management, and Advocacy, among other areas. Throughout his career, he has consistently driven organizational growth and social impact, leveraging his extensive knowledge and expertise to deliver high-quality results.

Based in Phnom Penh, Bunrithy is committed to making a meaningful difference and contributing to the success of the organizations and communities he serves.

Retta Menberu Woldetsadik (M.D., MSc) stands up for civil society-state dynamics, good governance, advocacy, and a rights-based approach to development.​ Since 2018 he has been part of CSA, built up, and leads the Africa office to advocate for change and empower the youth.After working more than two decades in development and health leadership, as a trainer, researcher, and consultant in clinical medicine and public health, Retta developed himself to a broader development leadership and facilitation role by operating as Country Director for ActionAid International, and as regional Strategy Adviser for Rush Foundation. Additionally to his work with CSA, he works as a coordinator, researcher, adviser, and facilitator of international development and humanitarian organizations, alliances, and multi-actor partnerships in diverse contexts across Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Sohini has a Social Science background with master degrees in Geography and Regional Planning. She is a certified Life and Leadership Coach. She has more than two decades of experience in the development sector supporting the work of many social change organizations on issues of local self-governance, right to information, and land rights. She has worked on capacity building of civil society organizations, from grassroots community groups to large networks. Sohini is passionate about civil society strengthening and holds space for those who are enthusiastic and ready to learn - this is reflected in her facilitation style.