March 5, 2026
Paterson project goes global at international community-building conference Julie and Andrew Overton attended the international conference in Goa, India earlier this year. Photo: PCB.

Paterson project goes global at international community-building conference

PATERSON Community Builders (PCB) representatives Julie and Andrew Overton attended an international community-building conference in Goa, India from 27 to 30 January.

“Goa’s cultural diversity, scenic environment and historical richness of being a Portuguese colony for over 450 years was a vibrant backdrop for the gathering focused on learning and community exchange,” they said in a statement.

The Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) International Festival was convened by social entrepreneur Peter Kenyon OAM, who facilitated the development of Paterson’s Community Development Plan with Rural Aid during 2025.

The conference brought together people from around the world who practice and promote community-led, strengths-focused community development, including Canada, USA, UK, India and Australia.

Julie presented on the work that the Paterson community is currently undertaking and outlined the area’s plans for the future.

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