About us: our approach and philosophy
About Fundamental
Fundamental is the capacity development and training arm of M&ESURE Research and Evaluation. We are a women-owned organisation dedicated to building resilient, data-informed organisations across the development sector.
We serve as both advocate and companion to nonprofits, NPOs, and purpose-driven organisations, walking alongside you as a trusted thinking partner.
Our work is grounded in the belief that sustainable social change requires more than good intentions, it demands strong organisational foundations, meaningful data systems, and the capacity to learn, adapt, and grow.
In every seed, there is a bloom waiting. In every organisation, a quiet strength. At Fundamental, we see it, support it, and help it flourish.
Our founders
Rethinking what organisations need to thrive
For too long, purpose-driven organisations have been asked to bloom in soil that stifles growth. Expected to work miracles with minimal investment, they’re often denied the very tools that help for-profit companies thrive like investing in systems, talent, and innovation.
At Fundamental, we believe that organisational capacity isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s essential for real, lasting impact. Purpose-driven organisations deserve the same opportunities to grow as any business. We must invest in their teams, systems, and structures. We unlock sustainability and amplify developmental impact. Because when organisations thrive, communities do too.
Watch the TED Talk:
Our philosophy: how we see growth
Cultivating hope and resilience
The work you do matters. It’s hard, hopeful, and vital. We honour that. Our role is to provide the tools and support that help you grow stronger through all seasons. Whether you’re navigating uncertainty or preparing to scale, we’re here to nourish the root systems that sustain your mission. Hope is not just a feeling, it’s a strategy. And resilience is something we build, together.
Building a community of belonging
You’re not meant to do this alone. Fundamental is more than a service – it’s a space. A space where you are seen, heard, and supported. We believe that organisations flourish when they feel connected – to purpose, to people, and to each other. Like every organism in an ecosystem, your role matters. In a community, we all grow better.
Sparking discovery through learning
Growth begins with curiosity. We help you look deeper, ask different questions, and make learning a shared adventure. Whether through reflective practice, creative evaluation tools, or new ways to think about your data, we’re here to light a spark – and keep it burning. Because discovery is not a destination, it’s a mindset.
Nurturing personal and professional growth
Your organisation is only as strong as the people who carry it. We honour the human side of this work – the moments of doubt, the personal breakthroughs, the slow rebuilding of confidence. Our support always comes with deep respect. We walk with you, knowing that who you are becoming matters just as much as what you are achieving.
Guiding your journey to clarity
Developmental work is messy and meaningful. We help you hold the tension between complexity and clarity. From articulating your strategy to evaluating your impact, we bring tools and structure that help you move forward with confidence and communicate your value in ways that others can truly see.
Celebrating your success and shared milestones
Small wins matter. They are signs of life in dry seasons. At Fundamental, we celebrate with you because we know how hard-earned progress is in this space. Every story you tell, every shift you lead, every milestone you reach brings us all closer to a more just and vibrant world. We are proud to stand with you.
In every seed, there is a bloom waiting. In every organisation, a quiet strength.
At Fundamental, we see it, support it, and help it flourish.
Our approach: growing in natural rhythms
Inspired by South Africa’s Namaqualand, where vibrant blooms emerge after long seasons of quiet growth, we believe every organisation has the potential to flourish with the right support.
We support organisations through every stage of their growth journey, grounded in the belief that meaningful change is nurtured, not rushed:
Rooted in Resilience
We begin by helping teams clarify their context, values, and purpose, creating strong foundations for sustainable growth.
Seeds of Strength
We build the systems, tools, and frameworks that anchor your work, particularly around monitoring, evaluation, and learning.
Blossoms of Behaviour
We embed reflective practices and data use into daily operations, guiding adaptive decision-making that keeps you responsive to change.
Harvest Hope
We help you turn insights into compelling, purpose-driven reports that celebrate progress and inspire trust among stakeholders.
Growing Networks of Change
Through cohort work and partnerships, we foster collective learning, shared tools, and peer support that help entire ecosystems flourish.
Our approach: How we work
Practical tools, shared learning, lasting growth
We help organisations cultivate clarity, confidence, and community in their work. Just as the South African Namaqualand bursts into colour after long seasons of quiet growth, we believe every organisation has the potential to bloom, with the right support. Our work is grounded in the natural rhythms of growth. We help you sow the Seeds of Strength, stay Rooted in Resilience, and Harvest Hope—all while building the systems, skills, and support structures you need to thrive.
Partnering with purpose, growing with resilience
We support non-profits and purpose-driven organisations to grow stronger from the inside out. Inspired by the adaptive beauty of Namaqualand, our work is grounded in the belief that organisations – like natural ecosystems – thrive when they are rooted, resourced, and resilient.
Guided by nature, grounded in practice
Our work is inspired by the resilience and rhythm of natural ecosystems, where beauty blooms in the most unexpected seasons. We apply this perspective to organisational support, helping non-profits grow, adapt, and thrive across every part of their internal ecosystem.