Courageous Conversations and Peace Leadership
Delivered in collaboration with the Faculty of Arts, the Courageous Conversation Series supports University of Melbourne students to develop the skills, confidence and leadership capabilities to engage constructively across difference. Drawing on multidisciplinary research and practice in peacebuilding, the series explores how deep listening, dialogue and an understanding of conflict can help build collaboration and respond to complex social challenges.
Through interactive and participatory workshops, students explore contemporary approaches to peace and conflict, beginning with their own lived experiences and perspectives. The series creates space to examine difficult conversations, understand diverse perspectives and consider how students can apply peacebuilding principles in their own communities and contexts.
Objectives
- Build confidence communicating across different perspectives and contexts
- Develop skills for engaging in courageous, respectful and constructive conversations
- Strengthen deep listening, empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives and experiences
- Develop knowledge of dialogue, conflict and peacebuilding approaches
- Foster student leadership and engagement in peacebuilding and social change
What to expect
The series comprises two five-hour workshops delivered by members of the Initiative for Peacebuilding team, drawing on their research and applied expertise across peace and conflict studies.
Workshops use highly participatory approaches, including group discussion, role plays and simulations, case studies and interactive sessions. Students are encouraged to connect ideas and approaches to their own experiences and contexts, and to consider opportunities for positive impact as local and global citizens.
Students who complete the series are also eligible to receive a Melbourne Plus credential recognising their development of leadership capabilities.
The workshop series also includes a Peacemeal event, providing students with an informal space to reflect on and share their experiences through creative works, stories and conversation. Centred around the prompt “What sustains you?”, the event brings students together over a shared meal to listen, connect and explore the personal experiences and perspectives that sustain us.