Could our differences become generative, instead of divisive or violent?

Can we coexist harmoniously with those that hold opposing opinions, no matter how polarising?

Join Turning Ground and Initiatives of Change Australia as we learn the art of having genuinely constructive conversations, even in the presence of difference or conflict.

Have you ever found yourself in a conversation where ……

something was said that you disagreed with, and you stayed quiet and wished you hadn’t?
you became defensive and reacted in ways you wish you hadn’t?
you moved away from someone who seemed difficult or different rather than engaged in a conversation?

This program will be utilising the Engaging Constructively in Challenging Conversations (ECCC) framework, designed to give you insights, skills and confidence to have constructive conversations in the midst of differences and conflicts. It is experiential and practical, and combines looking inward to develop self-awareness and practical tools for having the conversations.

Follow these links to watch some videos introducing the offering:

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Part 1: An Evening Talk and Community Gathering

Our first session on May 12th is a larger gathering, open to all. It is an event where we will introduce the main themes of the subsequent program and explore the deep importance for higher relational intelligence in our current cultural context. We will do this through a short talk and an activity in pairs to begin practically exploring the skills ECCC has to offer.

Part 2: A Multi-Week Deep Dive Program

The following week after Part 1, the closed group course (limited to 20 places) will commence. It will provide you with an opportunity to dive more deeply into the themes of the course, and more importantly, practice the skills the ECCC offers. You will be guided in a safe, skillfully facilitated small group setting. This will be a shared learning experience of growth, potential challenge, and connection.

DATES, TIMES, LOCATION:

Part 1: Sunday May 12th 4:00pm-6:30pm
Part 2 - Session 1: Sunday May 19th 4:00pm-6:30pm
Part 2 - Session 2: Sunday May 26th 4:00pm-6:30pm

Part 2 - Session 3: Sunday June 2nd 4:00pm-6:30pm

Part 2 - Session 4: Sunday June 9th 4:00pm-6:30pm

Location: The sessions will be held in a venue in Fairfield, address will be sent once individuals have booked.

AFFORDABILITY:

We do not wish price to be a barrier. If you cannot afford the price of attendance, but deeply want to participate, please email us here: programs@turningground.com.au

TURNING GROUND:

In addressing the entangled crises of our times, Turning Ground’s offerings are guided by the question: ‘What kinds of humans do we need to become in this moment of history?’
We offer psychotherapy, events and programs; all motivated to reweave a fragmented world.

INITIATIVES OF CHANGE:

Initiatives of Change (IofC) is a world-wide movement of people of diverse cultures and backgrounds, who are committed to the transformation of society through changes in human motives and behaviour, starting with our own.

YOUR FACILITATORS:

Mike Lowe from IofC has over 25 years of international experience with IofC leading transformational workshops in the areas of trustbuilding and reconciliation. He has worked with politicians and young leaders in Eastern Europe after the fall of communism, and has worked on programmes of reconciliation with police and former militia leaders in the Solomon Islands.

His particular gift is in creating safe spaces in which transformation can occur, and he has a particular interest in earth-based spirituality, indigenous wisdom, process-oriented psychology, trauma healing, men's work and supporting the rise of healthy and authentic Masculine and Feminine energies as we transition from patriarchal and colonial ways of being. He co-facilitates healing workshops Innate Wisdom Connection and blogs at www.mikelowe.com.au

Vadim Ragozin is one of the directors of Turning Ground, and Lead of Community and Programs. He is an educational designer, group facilitator, and artist. He is continually striving to integrate our inner and outer worlds, reweaving what often gets lost in the cracks; a sense of meaning, wisdom, connection, and belonging in our lives.

TESTIMONIALS:

'The trainers are outgoing, flexible and will always provide you with a listening ear to ask and clarify concepts. Both Shoshana and Mike are incredibly knowledgeable and will make sure you walk away with something that will impact your ability to communicate and create a space for tough and challenging conversations. ' - Amiel Nubaha

'I highly recommend it for the skills you learn and the self discovery that will be made along the way.' Suzanne Privot

ALL ARE WELCOME:

All ages, cultures, orientations.

This event and this series seek to create spaces for all, as we seek to build bridges, and weave trust. We hope to co-create open, connective, and generative dialogues; even in all of our differences.

🌏 HONOURING THE LANDS AND WATERS WE GATHER WITH:

We acknowledge that this event takes place on and with unceded Aboriginal land. We pay our utmost respect to the Wurrundjeri people from the Kulin nation and invite all who join us to remember history, pain, and privilege as we seek to include history, live, love, and lead in ways that allow a more inclusive and regenerative future to emerge.

For questions, please email: programs@turningground.com.au

We look forward to seeing you.

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