From Conflict to Collaboration

Written by Jonas, Anna & Marlene
September 2024

Training

Service Civil International – Deutscher Zweig e.V.

Belgium

From 02–08.04.2024 three volunteers Jonas, Marlene und Anna from SCI Germany had the opportunity to travel to Herentals, Belgium to participate in the training course “From Conflict to Collaboration: Building a Culture of Peace in Diverse Communities”. The course gathered 28 participants from 10 countries and many more nationalities. The training is a part of the Peace in Diversity project and is implemented by the International Secretariat of SCI generously co–funded by the European Union, this initiative stands for fostering peaceful coexistence. Central to the program lies its focus on grassroots engagement, it emphasizes the impact of everyday actions, which can positively impact the lives of others. By providing practical tools for fostering peace within diverse communities, the initiative not only nurtures a sense of collective responsibility but also champions the vision of a peaceful future for Europe.

During an exciting and intensive week of workshops, activities, and team–building exercises, we had the opportunity to focus on various levels of peace and investigate the different cultural components related to it. Our trainers, Natalie and Gośka, demonstrated exceptional dedication and skills throughout the week–long program, enriching the learning journey of the group. They used a captivating mix of theoretical insights and hands–on practical exercises to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. In short, we learnt with brain, hands and heart 🙂:

For example we played a simulation game that simulates “intercultural interactions” where we experienced diverse feelings like frustration, anger or confusion, that can be part of a so–called “Culture shock”. Reflecting about these feelings and thoughts encouraged us to critically consider normative assumptions and learn that conflict arises not (only) from major or obvious cultural differences but often from subtle, minor cues. In another group exercise we got the task to build a construction with given materials that will protect an egg when falling from a 2–meter height. The catch was: One of us wasn’t allowed to speak, one had their eyes covered and couldn’t see and one person had their hands tied. At the end we reflected upon the difference between “being useful and being used” in a world that is not inclusive yet and what it has to do with implementing a culture of peace.

One afternoon, an “open space” was dedicated to the participants interests and competences, they are willing to share with the group. As a result four diverse workshops were arranged: gender identity, human libraries, theatre of the oppressed and hungarian folk dance. One whole day was dedicated to practicing nonviolent communication skills, always accompanied by personal and touching stories from the trainers’ family conflicts. A big eye–opener for many participants
was to learn the differentiation between needs and strategies or observations and judgements. We’ve been also taught the concepts of emotional and social intelligence and how we can enhance them.
Overall Natalie and Gośka created an engaging and dynamic learning environment that inspired creativity, reflection and collaboration among the group. With their outstanding experience and ability to motivate the group, they significantly contributed to the success of the training experience.