How We Win. NVDA train-the-trainer workshop

[Banner acknowledgement: How We Win - A Guide to Nonviolent Direct Action Campaigning by George Lakey]

Welcome. Please read the following with care and attention.

This is a two-day training program for a maximum of 10 people:

Saturday 15th November, 10am - 4.15pm

Saturday 22nd November, 10am - 4.15pm

EXPECTATIONS

An NVDA train-the-trainers program teaches experienced activists how to train others in the principles and practices of nonviolent protest. Attendees are expected to be able to fulfill the following:

• Attended at least one NVDA training session

• Participated in nonviolent direct actions

• Commit to attending both days of this workshop

• Agree to assist with the daily logistics of the workshops including clean-up

• Willing to co-facilitate an Intro to NVDA session in 2026, with support

• Agree to debrief their faciltation with a Mentor

If you can't fulfill these atm, you're welcome to email your expression of interest in a future Train-the-Trainer workshop. We intend to offer Intro & Trainer workshops on a regular basis to grow NVDA capacity in WA. If you have related skills to share, please let us know so you can help expand training offers.

WORKSHOP

This is a co-learning approach, to gather and develop the skills and knowledge of all attendees. Your trainers, Robyn Williams and KA Garlick, are veteran protest, community and NVDA campaign organisers and facilitators. See more about Trainers, required Preparation and Housekeeping further below.

• Aims

To equip experienced activists with the skills and resources to train new people in nonviolent direct action. To enthuse and reassure learners.

• Core principles

Participants learn the foundational philosophy and importance of nonviolence, de-escalation of violence, and strategic planning. 

• Practical skills

Training includes hands-on components to teach practical skills for organizing and leading actions, such as legal briefings, role-playing, and understanding different roles within an action. 

• Organizing and facilitation

Program covers the logistics of setting up and running training sessions, including how to structure an agenda, gather necessary materials, and facilitate different types of exercises. 

• Safety, support and inclusivity

A key focus is on ensuring the safety of participants during actions, which includes learning how to de-escalate conflicts and support those involved, as well as understanding legal rights and responsibilities.

PREPARATION

1. What's one piece of music, dance, poetry or other art that moves, inspires or reassures you? Please email YouTube, image or other link to pov@iinet.net.au to be shared with your training group.

2. Research the history and philosophy of NVDA. Choose one issue, insight or point of interest ready to share with the group for one minute.

3. Please read Legal Aid WA: https://www.legalaid.wa.gov.au/find-legal-answers/your-rights/under-arrest-and-police-powers

TRAINERS

Robyn Williams - Robyn cut her community organising teeth during the Old Growth Forest campaign in the late 90s.  She has a deep commitment to nonviolence, personally and strategically. From 2017 she collaborated with XR to provide Legal Support for activists. Robyn’s worked as a professional facilitator and sustainability educator. She co-founded Pinakarri housing co-op and intentional community.

KA Garlick - KA began her activism protesting against uranium mining at Jabiluka in the late 1990s. Since then, she has dedicated her life to organising, mobilising, and creating diverse campaigns — from global peace walks and runs to boycotts, pickets, and non-violent direct actions for social and environmental justice. KA is currently the co-convenor of Nuclear Free WA.

HOUSEKEEPING

Please bring a vegetarian dish to share for lunch. Or your own to suit your dietary needs.

We'll provide a range of beverages, snacks and treats throughout the day. And a delicious gluten-free, vegan-friendly salad for lunch.

All participants are required to help cleanup during and at the end of the each workshop.