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Bridging Borders: RVIBS, Royal Hairstyles, and Norec’s Transformative Staff Exchange Program

By September 20, 2023September 27th, 2023Collaborators & Partners

RVIBS, Royal Hairstyles, and Norec’s Transformative Staff Exchange Program

In a world that often seems fragmented, knowledge-sharing remains a powerful tool to bridge divides and foster understanding. This is the spirit that guided our journey with Royal Hairstyles of South Africa and the exemplary support of Norec.

The Genesis of an Ambitious Program

At the heart of this venture lies Norec, a renowned Norwegian agency committed to south-south knowledge exchange. With its headquarters nestled in the picturesque town of Førde and with significant operations in Oslo, Norway’s bustling capital, Norec has become synonymous with championing global collaboration. You can delve deeper into their commendable work on their official website.

Responding to this clarion call for collaboration, RVIBS and Royal Hairstyles sealed a tripartite agreement in 2018. What followed was a remarkable exchange program spanning 2018-21, generously financed by Norec.

A Tapestry of Knowledge Exchange

This collaboration allowed a selection of our distinguished staff to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of Royal Hairstyles in South Africa. Tasked with the mission to impart their expertise, they also became eager students, absorbing invaluable skills and insights.

In a harmonious reciprocation, Royal Hairstyles sent their seasoned professionals to RVIBS, further weaving this tapestry of mutual learning and growth.

RVIBS’ directors visits Norec’s hubs in Førde and Oslo to strengthen the bond

Leadership Beyond Borders

It wasn’t just our dedicated staff who traversed continents. RVIBS’ directors undertook two enlightening visits – one to the heart of Royal Hairstyles in South Africa and another to Norec’s hubs in Førde and Oslo. These visits strengthened the bond, reinforcing our shared commitment to this groundbreaking program.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

The winds of 2020 brought with them the formidable challenge of COVID-19. Yet, with Norec’s unwavering support, our program remained unyielding. Even as international travel dwindled, our staff, determined not to let the pandemic cloud our mission, continued their roles. Thanks to Norec, those affected by travel restrictions received their salaries directly, a testament to the robustness of our partnership.

A Journey of Global Collaboration

As we reflect on this partnership, we’re reminded of the strength that lies in global unity. This program wasn’t just about hairstyling techniques; it was about building bridges and celebrating our shared human experience.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Royal Hairstyles and, most notably, Norec for their unwavering support and vision. Here’s to a world where borders are just lines on a map and where knowledge flows like a boundless river.