'Holding the ACEs' - An evening with poet and GP - Dr Glenn Colquhoun

"It's not necessary to solve problems. Only to understand them. When you understand them, they solve themselves naturally." ~ Dr Iain McGilchrist. 

Goodlife Collective is proud to present:

An evening of poetry, anecdotes and ideas with internationally-renowned Kiwi poet and doctor: Glenn Colquhoun, followed by an expert panel.

First published in 2023, Colquhoun's essay 'Holding the ACEs' is dedicated to the young people of the Horowhenua Youth Health Service, and raises awareness about adverse childhood events (ACEs) in New Zealand, using the power of storytelling to weave science and art into an invitation for us to collectively grow a more resilient, 'learning society'.  We'll deepen our understanding of ACEs, learn how each of us can make a difference and be a 'protective factor' for others, and network with like-minded leaders and changemakers.

After we hear from Glenn, there will be an engaging discussion and Q&A with a panel curated to bring diverse perspectives to the room. The panel, featuring economist Ganesh Ahirao and Wesley Community Action Group Director David Hanna, will explore how to enable the conditions for a safe and thriving childhood for all in Aotearoa.

Who do we want to be and what environment do we need to create, to make our mokopuna proud?
Join us for a special evening to reconnect with our agency and hope, network with your peers, and gain practical insights to build healthier, thriving communities.

This event is also a reminder of the crucial role of the arts in social change. Poetry is one of humanity's most powerful tools for transformation, providing a holding environment that is even used in therapy. As Poet David Whyte says, poetry can create a 'reconnaissance between self and world, maybe even 'as a much larger identity than we held until that moment" - prompting transfiguration.

Embrace this rare opportunity to immerse yourself in an inspiring evening of poetry and dialogue, and discover for yourself why
Colquhoun's poetry and prose have garnered 12 significant awards, including Best book of poetry in the Montana Books Awards (2003), Prize
in Modern Letters (2004), Booksellers NZ Platinum award twice (2006 and 2010), Fulbright Scholarship to Harvard University (2010) to name a few.

Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks provided. 

About Dr Glenn Colquhoun: Glenn Colquhoun is a poet and a doctor. He grew up in South Auckland, studied theology for two years at Avondale College, and completed a BA in English and Education at Auckland University in 1987. He later attended Auckland Medical School, graduating in 1996. In 1994 he took a year off his medical training and spent that time in Te Tii, a small Māori community in Northland. This began a lifelong relationship with the community and its people. His first collection of poetry, The art of walking upright, was written about this community.  In 2004 he was awarded the Prize in Modern Letters. This was, at the time, the largest award made to an emerging writer anywhere in the world. In 2011 he helped to establish the Horowhenua Youth Health Service, where he continues to work in adolescent medicine. He performs poetry regularly throughout the country.

Colquhoun has authored eight books of poetry, five children's books, and four essay books.

Thank you: Thank you to sponsors Simply Food for supporting this event, to KPMG for generously providing a venue, and to Big Brothers Big Sisters New Zealand for your support, guidance and participation - and for working tirelessly to create 'PCEs' - positive childhood experiences. 

About Goodlife Collective: Goodlife Collective exists to unlock our collective potential, and create better possibilities for planet and people through connection and ideas.

Event Programme:

• 5pm - arrive
  
• 5:30pm - Welcome & Introduction, hear from sponsors
• 5:45-6:30pm - Dr Glenn Colquhoun
• 6:35 - Panel Discussion and Q&A with Experts
• Networking
  

Proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters Wellington.