mojaste

Mojaste is a term used in online and urban communities to describe a decentralized, project-based mutual aid and learning practice. The concept centers on voluntary collaboration where participants contribute time, skills, or small resources to collective projects and rotate leadership or facilitation roles. The goal is to build social capital, share knowledge, and increase local resilience without centralized funding or commercial extraction.

Etymology and history: The origins of the term mojaste are uncertain, with multiple attributions circulating online. It emerged in late 2010s discourse among networked communities exploring peer-based learning and resource sharing. There is no single authoritative definition or governing body.

Structure and practices: Mojaste networks typically form through voluntary affiliation. Common features include recurring meetings (virtual or in-person), transparent project proposals, rotating facilitation or "moderator" roles, and public logs of activity and outcomes. Participation is usually membership-based and non-hierarchical, with decisions made through consensus or sociocratic methods. Resources contributed can be time, tools, or micro-donations; distribution is generally non-monetary or based on need and contribution.

Applications: In practice, mojaste is used for skill-sharing circles, tool libraries, collaborative art or software projects, and neighborhood improvement initiatives. It often emphasizes inclusivity, accessibility, and experiential learning.

Reception and critique: Proponents argue mojaste increases social capital, reduces barriers to collaboration, and strengthens local networks. Critics warn of potential free-riding, governance ambiguity, and legal or regulatory challenges for pooled resources.

See also: mutual aid, cooperative, peer-to-peer learning, crowdfunding.