I believe that the next great innovation is not technological, it is new ways of seeing and being in the world. As Einstein once said: we can’t solve the problems of the world with the same level of consciousness that created them, whether it is climate change, poverty or the displacement of millions of people from war and environmental change. It’s not enough to change governments, structures or systems. Cultural change is not enough. We have to revolutionise ourselves from the inside out. The five ‘c’s : collaboration, compassion, communication, creativity and kindness, are the foundations of more dynamic and engaging workplaces and communities. These are no longer non – essential, nice to have soft skills. They are essential to maintaining productive, healthy personal and professional relationships, solving problems and making good decisions, communicating effectively, leading with purpose and passion and meeting the challenges of an increasingly complex world. They are essential to achieving the outcomes you want and the financial success you seek. Developing these qualities requires emotional and cultural intelligence, the ability to simultaneously celebrate our common humanity while acknowledging and utilising the creative potential of diversity. I have designed a Beyond Us and Them training and coaching program to help you enhance these capabilities. But as the former Director of an aid program I have a keen appreciation that what works in one context doesn’t work in another. And as a writer and musician given to thinking laterally I particularly enjoy working with you to create a program that specifically meets you and/or your organisation’s needs. My commitment to helping you and your organisation realise your potential comes from many years spent living and working overseas in challenging countries such as Zimbabwe, Peru and Bangladesh. I have experienced people at their most vulnerable and most resilient; rebuilding their lives after natural disasters, coping with economic and political upheaval, managing the daily challenges of poverty. I have seen over and over again how resourceful, determined, creative and extraordinary people can be in the most adverse circumstances. Let’s have a chat. You can contact me at phil@culturalconnexions.org. or check out our services at www.culturalconnexions.org