History

Development Catalyst International (DCI), previously known as “Change Thru Empowerment,” boasts a rich history deeply rooted in grassroots activism and community mobilization. Our origins trace back to 1989, when a group of visionary women in Quetta, Pakistan, founded what would later become a beacon of hope for countless communities around the world.

Initially established as “Tanzeem-e-Khawateen Idara-e-Bahali-e-Mustehqeen” and formally registered in 1991, our organization operated from a humble industrial home, providing a haven for women and girls seeking empowerment and opportunities for advancement. Despite facing financial constraints and receiving no support from the Government, our tireless dedication to community upliftment remained steadfast.

The closure of the industrial home marked a turning point in our journey, propelling us into a new era of collaboration and impact. Through strategic partnerships with national-level organizations dedicated to human rights, women’s empowerment, and social justice, we expanded our reach and deepened our impact across diverse communities. These formative years laid the foundation for our unwavering commitment to fostering positive change at the grassroots level.

In 2010, recognizing the evolving landscape of global development, we underwent a transformative restructuring, emerging as “Change Thru Empowerment.” This pivotal moment catapulted us onto the national stage, where our innovative approaches and sustainable solutions garnered widespread acclaim. However, our journey of evolution was far from over.

In a testament to our global outlook and commitment to excellence, we rebranded once again as Development Catalyst International—a for-profit entity with leadership drawn from various countries. This strategic shift enabled us to harness the power of diversity and forge partnerships that transcend borders and boundaries. DCI believes in diversity and forging partnerships to deliver sustainable and context driven solutions to international challenges, and this believe become certain when we come across by an African proverb.

If you want to go fast, go alone but if you want to go far, go together”

With a distinguished leadership team boasting diverse technical expertise and global perspectives, DCI is uniquely positioned to address a wide range of developmental issues. From education and governance to economic empowerment and humanitarian assistance, our decades of experience and unwavering dedication set us apart as a trusted partner in the pursuit of positive change.

DCI’s 35 years of standalone experience, coupled with decades of leadership expertise in volatile operating environments, have resulted in a profound understanding of context-specific structures and processes. This knowledge reinforces our capabilities in effective project management, staff empowerment, and fostering collaborative partnerships, making us the preferred partner for donors and clients seeking impactful solutions on a global scale. As we continue to script the next chapter of our story, DCI remains steadfast in our commitment to driving meaningful change and building a brighter, more equitable future for all. Together, we serve as catalysts for progress, empowering communities and transforming lives around the world.