 |
A cross-cultural exploration of our role as peace-makers in helping to calm fears during cross-cultural mediations
The theme for this workshop represents an exploration into the impact of fear in cross-cultural mediations and how we as mediators can help to calm that fear in a manner that respects the cultures involved.
Drawing on the experiences of traditional Yolngu, contemporary Indigenous (from Melbourne) and non-Indigenous mediator experiences we will facilitate a workshop that encourages all mediators to be alert to the impact of ‘fear’. We need to make space for a conversation with cross-cultural counterpart about ways to appropriately calm fear.
The topic will provoke participant thinking as ‘fear’ in a cross-cultural context is an area that is yet to be widely explored. The workshop format will model itself on practical and meaningful cross-cultural dialogue, thereby reinforcing awareness of the need for respectful practices in cross-cultural peace-making.
This workshop, due to its cross-cultural nature, would significantly contribute to the diversity of the program. Podcast: Listen to Brenda and Sarah talk about this session (9 mins) >> |
Audio recording: Listen to this session (65 mins) >> 
Fear can create barriers – inhibiting good decision making. As mediators and peace-makers we want to help break down those barriers so that meaningful dialogue and peace can occur.
The workshop will provoke participant learning through sharing of stories, interactive dialogue and critical examination of the skills, knowledge and capacity that we all bring from our experiences to help us calm fears. We look to highlight the critical importance of undertaking these difficult and often complex conversations about the tools that each culture brings to help calm fears. Through mutually valuing the richness that each culture brings to the table, we are better able to facilitate mediation in a truly cross-cultural way. 
This workshop will capture the interest of our potential audience due to its cross-cultural dynamic. The workshop would be about cross-cultural issues explored and delivered in a cross-cultural way. It would be co-facilitated by a non-Indigenous mediator and Yolngu peace-maker. The session will begin with a panel discussion between the facilitators and local Aboriginal mediators from Melbourne, and will encourage participants to engage in conversations about cross-cultural issues. 
The interactive nature of the workshop would provide an opportunity for participants to engage in stimulating discussions. Participants will be encouraged to work in small groups and as a whole to explore ideas. The workshop will reinforce learning through the use of visual, audio and practical tools that focus on creating meaning for application of knowledge in mediations.Sarah Blake and Brenda Muthamuluwuy
Sarah Blake and Brenda Muthamuluwuy (right) are part of the first group of Graduates from the Mawul Rom Project, having completed their final phase four workshop in July 2009. This presentation reflects some of the work that they continue to explore following their participation in the most recent learning program.
Sarah Blake
Sarah Blake has over eight years of experience working in the field of strategic conflict management and cross-cultural engagement. During this time Sarah has worked in government, community and commercial sectors in roles such as community education and development, policy, multiparty and community mediations and process design. During her work within remote Aboriginal communities (in the top end of NT) she has mediated issues such as Court Referred cases, burial issues, workplace and community/ government relations and complex multi-party and community conflict.
For more information see her website www.greyspacesolutions.com
Brenda Muthamuluwuy
Brenda currently works as Registrar at Sheperdson College at Galiwin’ku Community Elcho Island in the Northern Territory. She plays an active role in support of her community and often performs the role of bridge builder for cross-cultural conflict or negotiations. She has completed an introduction to contemporary mediation course and MYOB training.
She is also a part of the first group of Graduates from the Mawul Rom Project, graduating in July 2009. Brenda continues to build on her conflict resolution skills and looks forward to being able to provide more support for her community during these difficult and complex times for Indigenous Australians.
© LEADR 2009 | Disclaimer