Beyond Small Talk

This kaupapa started with observing growing division within our communities and a desire to nurture more mutual listening, understanding and respectful connection across difference. Our very small team all have a heart for making the world a better place.

Join us to learn ways to bridge difference through communication and connection. In a safe and inclusive environment, practice conversation skills over a cuppa tea, to understand each other better.

Upcoming session themes:

October 15: Putting Peace Trolling into Practice

November 1: Depolarisation initiatives: What, So what? What next?

See further details below

Putting Peace Trolling into Practice

In this session with Janie Banfield we will discover how the practice of ‘Peace Trolling’ can enable us to remain more fully aligned with our own values within challenging social media spaces. This workshop provides an opportunity to learn and practice a few small changes to normal ways of responding which can enhance your natural ability to connect with others who hold very different views. Practice using five habits (based on NVC) to interact in a way that is respectful, empathic, honours our common humanity yet enables you to still speak up about what is important to you.  Social media spaces can be a great practice ground for showing up more empathically face-to-face too.

This session will be 100% online. Those who register will be sent a Zoom link beforehand. If you would like to share the session in person with a 'buddy', email us on beyond.small.talk.ngamotu@gmail.com and we will do our best to find someone to join you.

Depolarisation initiatives: What, So what? What next?

Come and hear about Phoebe Balle’s research on Aotearoa initiatives to reduce hostility, distrust, and "us/them" thinking within and between polarised groups. What picture is she building of the strengths, challenges and opportunities of this work? So what have we all learned from our local experience of Beyond Small Talk this year? What next as we draw this project to a close?  Join in conversation about ways to continue to support this kaupapa, if not in its current form.