AUGUST 2013 EDITION Creators of Peace “Global Connections” A Newsletter for reporting the voluntary efforts of women creating peace across the world’s divides An international program of

Dr Christiane Garin Al-Azhari - Creators of Peace (retiring) International President Dear Creators of Peace friends and colleagues, Creators of Peace Circles (CoPC’s) bring a ray of hope and of in a world in which genuine Peace seems to be a rare commodity and where far too many women are struggling for bare existence, respect and security. The demand for facilita- tors training from post conflict women’s groups is rising. It is also felt in cities far and wide. The CoP Circle manual is being translated into new languages, Kirundi (the language spoken in Burundi), Arabic, etc… It is a sign that it is relevant and timely. In a few days, in Caux, the CoP’s General Assembly will renew your committee and the team of country and inter- national coordinators. It shall also discuss the new Governance model we suggest to enhance our outreach and efficiency. This will, we trust, bring fresh initiatives and new strengths to encourage every woman to discover her true peace creating potential. As I step down as President, I am proud and grateful for the advances spearheaded worldwide by the inspired team of “CoP mid- wives” with whom I have been privileged to serve and I wish them and the new team Salaam, Shalom, Pace, Peace. A new ‘Governance Model’ President: Daphrose Ntarataze( Burundi/ At the July 2013 AGM CoP elected a new team of Switzerland); international coordinators, and paid tribute to for Creators of Peace Secretary: Pari Sanyü (Australia/Nagaland); the previous team with unmatched recognition. Treasurer: Kate Monkhouse (UK); It would be unwise to establish an exhaustive list Reflecting on a CoP guiding principle: “every National Teams Liaisons: Jean Brown of accomplishments to their credit. It is thanks to person has a part to play and something to (Australia) and Portia Mosia (South Africa); them that our network is currently working in contribute”, the retiring International Com- Programs: Shoshana Faire (Australia), more than 40 countries from different conti- mittee of Creators of Peace have designed a Communications: Iman Al Ghafari (Syria); nents. Thanks to the support of our flagship new governance model whereby nine Inter- People Care: Trish McDonald-Harrison IofC, CoP has become a much appreciated exten- national Coordinators will administer a spe- (Australia); sion of our worldwide network. cific Portfolio to serve the world network. Fundraising: Tanya Fox (Australia). And each Coordinator will have a Portfolio Most of the newly elected team of international coordinators are novices to a global network Working Team working alongside with them. A further twenty-one women from fifteen such as CoP, but each one is grateful for the countries have volunteered to support each Thanks to a shared passion and inner calling opportunity to capitalize on the expertise and to create peace the world over, the retiring Coordinator as their Portfolio Working Team. strong experience of our predecessors. Committee have overseen the global CoP network engender peace at a whole new A Message from the new CoP During my mandate I have the privilege to presi- level. President elect: de over preparations for the 25th Anniversary of CoP in 2016. It will be an honour to both cele- Our sincere thanks goes to the retiring Inter- Daphrose Ntarataze Barampama - brate and acknowledge the Creators of Peace national Committee who have served us over initiative which was launched in Caux / Switzer- the past three to five year term. They are: Burindi/Switzerland land in 1991 by the Honourable Anna Abdallah Executive Committee: President: Christiane « This morning, I saw Peace represented by two Msekwa of Tanzania.

Garin Al-Azhari (Switzerland); Treasurer: images : A Plant, and a Burning Candle My hope is that anyone who is a member of our Monica McIntosh (Barbados/UK); Secretary: What a noble ambition to engage in the way of association, individually or collectively, will set a Trish McDonald-Harrison (Australia); Inter- peace making! target to celebrate the gift of CoP, and continue national Association Liaison: Jean Brown to plant their seeds of peace, and be candles of (Australia) Whether through our actions or attitudes, we light and halos of flames of hope, contributing International Coordinators: Christina De » plant seeds of peace in their light. Angelis (Australia); Didacienne Mukahabes- himana (Rawanda); Amina Dikedi-Ajakaiye ourselves first, and To read Daphrose’ message in her first (Nigeria/UK); Tehmina Siganoria (India); patiently we try to language, French, see Page 2 >>>>> Vijayalakshmi Subrahmanyan (India); Joanne maintain them to grow The Inaugural Meeting of the Nabbanja (Uganda); Njeri Kimanthi (Kenya); and flourish to produce Kate Monkhouse (UK) fruit that contain many 2013-2016 International Coordinators Regional Coordinators: East Africa: Dorothy other seeds which, in was held Friday 17 August 2013. Tingu; Southern and Central Africa: Jackie turn, will be plan- There was a great sense of excitement as we Euvard/Angie Katito; UK and Western ted ...and so the cycle of Peace or the cycle of linked up for our first Skype Meeting. Thanks life continues. to the miracles of technology, it resulted in a Europe: Su Riddell; South America: Helena Salazar (Von Armin); North America: Kathy The light that radiates from my inside, warms very productive meeting. Aquilina and illuminates the nuclear core that is my Our shared sense of spirit, and mutual calling Country Coordinators: Malaysia: Regina family or immediate circle. Each of my relati- to advance the work of CoP saw no barriers in Morris. ves takes this light, internalizes it and begins to our age, language and country time illuminate his own surroundings, and so on. differences, not even by Iman in war torn Syria! At the CoP General Assembly (AGM) in Caux, The light of my inner candle, thus from this A collaborative connection has now been Switzerland on 9 July 2013, nine International core, multiplies to infinity. It grows and even- forged and we’re all poised ready to embark on Coordinators from around the globe, were tually reaches wider horizons. This halo grows our vision for our individual Portfolios, feeling elected, answering a calling to serve CoP for a more and more, and the light extends further greatly encouraged and supported by our 3 year term of office. They are: than I can imagine. President Daphrose and Secretary Pari.

Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - August 2013 edition REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE Page 2 of 7 Mot de la présidente by Daphrose Ntarataze Barampama - Présidente d’Artisans de Paix Regular Feature Article: La paix, ce matin, s’est présentée à moi sous forme de deux images : une plante et une “On reflection of my CoP Journey” bougie allumée. Quelle noble ambition que celle de vouloir être des artisans de paix! Que ce soit par nos actes et nos attitudes, planter des graines de la paix en soi-même d’abord. Les entretenir pour qu’elles poussent, s’épanouissent, fleurissent, produisent des fruits qui Joyce Fraser - , Australia contiennent de nombreuses autres graines. Qui à leur tour seront plantées … Et le cycle de la Initiatives of Change Volunteer, and paix, le cycle de la vie continue. Creators of Peace Facilitator La lumière qui part de mon intérieur rayonne, réchauffe et illumine le noyau nucléaire qui est My journey ma famille ou mon entourage immédiat. Chacun de mes proches se saisit de cette lumière, started as a l’intériorise et se met à illuminer son entourage, et ainsi de suite. La lumière de ma bougie chance encoun- intérieure, qui part donc de ce noyau se démultiplie à l’infini. Elle s’agrandit et finit par atteindre ter in Britain in des horizons plus larges. Son halo s’agrandit de plus en plus et la lumière d’étend plus loin que je the early ‘60’s ne me l’imagine. that led me to Le 9 juillet de cette année 2013, notre Association s’est dotée d’une nouvelle équipe de the work of coordinatrices internationales. Avec une reconnaissance inégalée, nous tenons à rendre Initiatives of hommage à l’équipe précédente. Il serait hasardeux d’établir une liste exhaustive des Change (IofC) réalisations à son actif. Si notre réseau est actuellement à l’œuvre dans plus de 40 pays des where I then worked without a salary for divers continents, donc actuellement le plus répandu des membres affiliés à Initiatives et 11years. Changement international, c’est grâce à elle. Si notre programme-phare des Cercles d’Artisans Over the years my involvement has taken de paix est apprécié et appelé à une extension de plus en plus sollicitée, c’est grâce à elle. La me to Ethiopia, India and finally to Australia. nouvelle équipe de coordinatrices internationales, même si elle comprend trois membres de Then in 2004, I was asked to co-facilitate a l'équipe sortante, est consciencieuse du fait que la plupart de ses membres sont novices dans la Creators of Peace Circle (CoPC). My co- direction d'un réseau mondial comme le nôtre. Elle a la chance de pouvoir capitaliser l’expertise facilitator found Creators of Peace (CoP) on et l’expérience confirmées de ses prédécesseurs. Elle leur en sait déjà gré. the internet and was profoundly interested, En 2016, la fin du mandat de l’équipe que j’ai l’insigne honneur de présider coïncidera avec le although she didn’t know anything about 25ème anniversaire de « Femmes artisans de paix ». Vous savez bien que cette initiative a été IofC. lancée à Caux/Suisse, en 1991, par l’honorable Anna Abdallah Msekwa de Tanzanie. Mon souhait serait que toute personne qui se reconnaît comme Artisans de paix au sein de notre That CoP Circle was held at her workplace in Association, individuellement ou collectivement, se fixe un objectif à atteindre d’ici là. Notre the L’Arche Centre. We had a fascinating cadeau commun d’anniversaire sera composé de graines plantées, de fleurs ou de fruits diverse group of about 8 women who would récoltés, de bougies allumées et de l’étendue des halos en découlant. not ordinarily have met each other. We were amazed at the freedom of spirit which CoP presents to an Initiatives of Change Sydney gathering came from their story telling in an atmos- On Sunday 4th August, 30 people were treated to an inspirational afternoon at Shoshana phere of trust. An Aboriginal woman was Faire & Alan Bassal’s home in Mosman at an IofC gathering for an update on the work of able to tell her story for the first time. Creators of Peace. Many new, as well as long time Creators of Peace came along. Long time I have now run several CoP Circles. I’ve IofCer Joyce Fraser briefly explained the background of Initiatives of Change for the benefit of taken part in Facilitation Training courses; those new to the work of IofC. Nith Chittasy took us on a journey of his life story and how his helped coordinate various CoP Reunions wife Ramphay introduced him to IofC and how it has had a and a Creators of Peace conference. These profoundly positive influence on theirs and their extended family’s experiences have been the best team effort lives. in which I have been involved.

Shoshana treated us to an inspiring pictorial account of her visit to Kenya to Facilitate at the Creators of Peace Circle Reunion “Enhancing I am currently co-facilitating a CoP Circle Women’s capacity in Peace Building”. with a friend in Auburn which is a rich multi- She pointed out that Kenya CoP have facilitated the largest cultural part of Sydney, Australia. number of peace circles in any one country and that the 58 Why am I involved? attendees who came to the Reunion from far and wide is a Creators of Peace gives the opportunity for testament to their belief that Creators of Peace Circles is a way to people to adopt a practical plan to make a peace for their peoples. peaceful difference to the world based on They graciously expressed their gratitude in a beautifully hand personal change. In Sydney, Creators of decorated card thanking Shoshana, IofC International and CoP Sydney for their financial Peace are collaborating with Initiatives of support towards the conference. Change in activities which will increase our Trish McDonald-Harrison, the retiring CoP International Secretary, shared her delight at effectiveness. My wish is to see men take having seen considerable growth of CoP in Sydney during her term of office, and also reported on the CoP program their way - this would on how the new CoP governance model will operate globally. Trish had just returned from the broaden the dynamic and involvement. CoP AGM in Caux Geneva where 30 CoP women from around the globe came together to take part in the elections, and shared their thinking to take Creators of Peace to the next level. We’re very proud that Australia is well represented on the new International Committee Elect. Trish then introduced the new incoming International Secretary, Pari Sanyü who travelled from so Trish could hand over the International Secretary portfolio. Pari chose to come this particular weekend to attend this IofC gathering. Pari said that she sees it as an honour to try and fill the very big shoes of her predecessor, Trish. And how inspired she is that Sydney “Let There Be Peace on Earth, CoP has led the way since their first Peace Circle in 2004. She reflected on how Creators of and Let It Begin with Me” Peace enables women across the world to connect at the deepest level of heart and spirit." This gathering has set a new precedence of collaboration between IofC and CoP in Sydney.

Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - August 2013 edition REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE Page 3 of 7

Creators of Peace responds to the call of the world’s newest country - The Republic of SOUTH SUDAN

On 24 November 2012, Vice President Dr The first CoPC in South Sudan ran in Juba over Riek Machar Teny announced that ‘the three days in March. It was co-facilitated by Joy leadership of the 15-month old nation Mbaabu from Kenya, Director of Amani Com- would organize a first-ever peace and na- munities Africa, and Jean Brown, an Interna- tional reconciliation conference to try and tional Coordinator of Creators of Peace from heal the mental wounds that have visibly Australia. The very interactive, wide ranging divided some of the communities over the conversation and the very deep and painful years.’ sharing gave lie to those who said the women of South Sudan would find it hard to open up, Requests for international help to implement too traumatized to share. As one woman said ‘I his vision was made by Dr Machar and other have carried a heavy burden for the past Photos by Dele Ajakaiye South Sudanese attending the Initiatives of years ...last night I slept well after a long Change (IofC) conferences in India and Swit- time and woke up feeling very happy. zerland last year. In response, last August the “The ashes from the burnt letters drifted through the hot air up into the red blossoms of Global Assembly of IofC International en- The President of the Jonglei Womens’ Associa- the tree outside. Leaning out of the window dorsed a ‘framework proposal’, drafted by tion came straight from a five day women’s the women took it in turns to set light to South Sudanese and Africans present, to peace conference in her State. They issued a thoughts they had written forgiving and asking make this a Common Action for the IofC net- statement at the end saying, among other for forgiveness, a process of letting go of past work during 2013 and were formally invited to things that, ‘they would leave their homes and hurts and darkness. It was very still inside the partner in the project. A detailed 56 page refrain from child bearing if men in their com- room except for the single fan and the soft proposal was formulated, funding was munities continued to seek violent solutions to weeping. A young Murle woman provided tis- sought, and in February 2013 a team from ongoing conflicts in the troubled region - sues for the older Dinka widow. The day be- around the globe arrived in South Sudan to rather than peaceful solutions.’ participate in a non-government National fore, the tears had been of laughter as pairs of women struggled to practice ‘bad’ listening and Council for Healing and Reconciliation. Another of the participants was the President get the point of what ‘good’ listening really of the National South Sudan General Women’s By late March, the Organizing Committee Association. In partnership with Creators of sounds like.” had been expanded with representatives Peace she is looking at a possible women’s from the Sudan Council of Churches, civil forum to be held later in April to explore the society and non-government intellectuals. understanding of and direction for the national An important IofC initiative helping in the reconciliation movement proposed by the Healing and Reconciliation process is government in partnership with Initiatives of Women’s Creators of Peace Circles. Change.

Creators of Peace Netherlands partners with South Sudanese in the Diaspora by Willemijn Lambert “We are thinking of church women’s fellowships. Creators of Peace Netherlands and South in the past has an effect on the present in both They meet every Wednesday and CoP Circles Sudanese Women’s Association Netherlands negative and would get them to know each other much better (SSWAN) came together to explore the pos- positive ways.” – we can always add some scriptures and sibility of a long-term partnership. prayers.” “Forgiveness “I talked to my stepmother who has a stall in the In May 2013, eight South-Sudanese women frees you, and market. She is keen for us to start CoP Circles in participated in a CoP Circle in which they the market place. There is a small room we could afterwards you talked about peace-building and their own role use and the women selling produce come from will be able to in creating peace. all over the country including Uganda and Kenya blossom like – it would be ideal”. The CoP Circle not only provided room for trees in springtime. The fruits of forgiveness “Well I want to try them in my local neighbour- women to explore personal issues, it also are like the grapes in autumn”. hood where the indigenous tribe are a bit exclu- opened up a conversation on the role of the Reflecting on the weekend another woman sive and the new comers are marginalised”. South-Sudanese diaspora in the Netherlands. wrote in her email: “During the weekend I In an atmosphere built on mutual trust, they decided to start forgiving myself.” This was the planning buzz amongst the new were able to share their personal stories giving CoP Circle facilitators in Juba. Freshly trained Having had a very positive experience in the each woman an opportunity for healing. They and coming from two CoP Circles run in March Circle, the women have committed to gather and May, many were single mothers, or unem- learned the power of mindful listening as well on a monthly basis to discuss their vision for ployed graduates. The CoP ‘mother’ of the as listening to their own inner voice. “I’m now South-Sudan, and their role living in the team is Regina Kapa, Programme Manager of experiencing more peace in my own heart” Diaspora and contributing towards that the new IofC South Sudan office. shared one woman. vision. With a renewed sense of trust the “Peace is like the roof of a house to me - it women left the Initiatives of Change Centre The healing, love and motivation each one provides shelter, a place to feel at home” at the end of the weekend with a new sense experienced through the Circles, and then the Forgiveness was a central theme for all the of hope, saying ‘The future of South-Sudan training, resonated profoundly with the needs of a country being challenged in every way. women. One woman shared “What happened is like a flower, the darkest days are over.’ By Jean Brown

Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - August 2013 edition REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE Page 4 of 7 ‘Searching for Common Ground’ comes to Nepal Support to by Susanne Rix South In April 2013 a group of influential Nepali ence. Tears are not usually shed by women Sudan from women joined seven senior American here - but they were this week. Personal Mosman women guests of Search for Common shifts happened overnight. NSW Ground (SFCG) to a CoP Circle in Ne- Photo & Article by Shoshana Faire By the end of the second day, there was a pal. SFCG is dedicated to changing the way buzz of excitement about taking the next On Sunday 10 March two CoP women, people deal with conflict and as part of their steps. Shoshana Faire and Patricia Garcia, held an 10 day “journey of peace” in Nepal, they afternoon to raise awareness and funds to invited the Nepali women to join them for “Imagine what could be the result of a contribute to the IofC initiative The Healing and the Circle. small shift in thought or actions of women Reconciliation process in South Sudan. 30 in influential and political positions around Serena Rix-Tripathee facilitated the pro- people came to learn about what is happening the world.” in South Sudan. They heard the personal gram and from the start, the CoP process worked its magic, immediately breaking Comments at the end included: experiences of Patrick Dako and Benjamin down barriers. Faces softened, smiles “Most outstanding experience of my life” Wani, both South Sudanese who are now living warmed the space and the women became “We felt so connected by our stories and com- in Sydney, and Patricia Garcia who returned as one. For the Nepali women in particular, mon humanity.” from Sudan late last year after a challenging going so deep was a very new experi- “Deeply healing” “We are all transformed” year in Darfur heading Norwegian Church Aid's humanitarian operations.

The Creators of Peace Two cultures come together in Geneva by Maya Fiaux Manual now in Swedish by Valerie Tikkanen A group of four Burundian and four Swiss/ Listening to others; Inner Listening; and The

Italian women attended a CoP Circle in Ge- Power of Forgiveness . We’re so pleased to announce that the Crea- neva in March and April, 2013 over two Sat- tors of Peace Manual has been translated urdays and one Sunday. One person came into Swedish. This was done by a lady who from Thurgau, another from Belgium and hadn’t yet taken part in a CoP Circle. It was the other six were from the regions of Mor- so interesting to hear her exclamations and ges, Nyon and Geneva. comments as she read each Gathering Point and how positively they affected her. This was not only a meeting of two cultures coming together, but above all the meeting Five women from Malmo, Gothenberg and of women who wished to be peacemakers. Stockholm recently took part in a CoP Circle We followed a well structured programme over a weekend. We created an atmosphere . Photo: Christiane Garin designed by Daphrose Barampama, which of trust to share deeply and to look at per- posed questions about creating peace and We all returned home rich and happy, and sonal problems and the needs in our cities. emphasised the connection with IofC. with the firm decision to put into practice It’s amazing how every CoP Circle is so differ- what we experienced through our time to- Our time together was often interspersed ent as it’s created by the experiences of gether. by personal interactive reflections; and those taking part. The desire to meet again and to continue listening to each other’s life stories. We these exchanges led us to already set a new We are now working on having CoP Circles in dealt with issues such as: What is Peace?; date to continue together on this path. different cities in the autumn. Qualities of a Peace Maker; Inner Peace;

Creators of Peace comes to a troubled More CoP plans underway in the UK neighborhood of Denmark by Birte Finken by Su Riddell

In February 2013, a CoP Circle In May some of us met for a CoP facilitator’s planning session, aimed started in the troubled neighbour- at refreshing our vision and developing new directions. We took hood of Nørrebro, Blågaards time for reflection; did an exercise to map out areas of outreach and Plads. Two enthusiastic Somali community involvement that we already undertake; and identified women drew the group together, and discussed issues we see in our inviting 9 women who agreed to communities and globally which are meet on Saturday afternoons. A our priorities. By the end of 24 hours broad variety of African women we were re-inspired with plans for filled the space of my Chinese next steps for CoP UK and as a team.

friend’s flat: from Somalia, Kenya, the Ivory-Coast as well as South- What kind of things are we involved in Sudan. The peace we sought in our hearts and homes was chal- already? Too many to list - about 90 Photo by Saba Alina Bilqia lenged by common concerns for our safety and the safety of our activities were recorded. There was a wide range with some themes families on the streets of our town. Also, many of the woman are emerging - fostering refugee boys or working with refugee services, haunted by the memories of trauma from their war struck na- offering educational support to the Sudanese community or hospi- tions in Africa. tality to indigenous group students. Environmental campaigns from I was deeply touched by the stories of these women, and I was low-carbon living to making Oxford a ‘tar-free’ city. Keeping our- grateful that even with their huge cultural differences, they gave selves fit, with meditation, salsa, or walking. the Circle a chance. What will we do next? Keep going; keep in touch with one another; cre- I recognised that we need to find practical ways to support these ate CoP Circles in at least three cities; establish guidelines for partnerships women in their day to day lives. The suffering they’ve endured with other organisations; hold meals and events to promote Creators of calls for deep respect and willingness to simply sit together with Peace; keep in touch with past participants; join activities of IofC; and cele- them in silence, suspend any action and rest in compassion. brate being women ...If you want something done, ask a busy woman!!

Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter August 2013 REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE Page 5 of 7 Creators of Peace in Malaysia continues to strengthen CoP London supports the By Regina Morris film “Pray the Devil Back On April 29 2013 we were treated to a to Hell” By Samah Bushra Ahmed th delightful and magical evening with On Friday the 7 of June, a film screening took Creators of Peace facilitator Shoshana place at Greencoat Place organised by Creators Faire from Sydney, Australia who came to of Peace London. The film, titled Pray the Devil Back to Hell, is now part of a documentary refresh our experience of a CoP Circle. series called Women, War and Peace Fifteen women gathered in Tia and www.peaceisloud.org. It shows how women in Haridas’ home and in 3 hours, the Liberia stood up and took serious action to end discussions and sharing went pretty deep the civil war in their country, the war that killed on the topics of Inner Listening and their husbands and sons, and that made rape a Forgiveness. common experience for them and for their daughters. The following is a post-event sharing from one of the women, Aqim: The evening was attended by many women

“The world is challenging women day by from different experiences, and also two men: It provided a good balance between a journalist, and a civil society activist from day. There are so many matters to deal experienced input from the wise and openness Sudan. with and so many things to juggle at the to explore. Shoshana was very sharp yet same time. Between being strong yet tender with the issues discussed. Andrea introduced the purpose of the film and gentle, adapting with changes and holding why we chose it. Monica talked about CoP As we shared our experiences and concerns, on to tradition and values, only a woman International. Participants were invited by Jo the group was very dedicated and supportive. can do this. The term “superwoman” is a to share their reflections and reactions, and It made us feel like it was a safe and comfort term for all women out there. discuss how it inspired them personally. zone. No judgements were thrown upon and I was honoured to be invited. It was the criticism was always on a positive note. We I talked briefly of my participation in Creators platform that I have been searching for, for of Peace since 2011; how it has strengthened embraced our differences and respected one quite some time. It was a Circle of strong- my self-confidence to share my story; the another. We felt connected with each other willed women who continue strengthening warm friendships I’ve formed with active and throughout the session and it was very heavy themselves and others. I am proud yet respectable women, and that I’m now a to say goodbye at the end. Facilitator of CoP Circles. humble to say I am part of them now.” The bond created from such a session was just We shared about Inner Listening and I invited the audience to register for a CoP magical. It was a bond between one woman to Forgiveness facilitated by Shoshana. The Circle. It was a wonderful enriching evening another. “It can never be described, only felt. circle comprised women who have ending with a poetry recital by Shabibi Shah. I believe all women need this support and attended a CoP Circle and also new All enjoyed the film, discussions, food, and energy around them. They say change starts members. making new friendships and connections and from home and we believe in that.” some even took photos to remember this day.

A CoPeace Facilitator’s her experience and calm presence to have to organise mealtimes, varied the exercises used from my point of view gave me confidence. A weekend serving and clearing-up, even first time, thus expanding my format is intensive but partici- though participants do help out. “toolkit”.

2013 has seen me transition from pants bond over shared meals As the group bonded we found we being a participant of a CoP Circle, CoP Circle over 4 Sessions: which can be a breath of fresh air needed to relax the time and to finally becoming a Facilitator, to ventilate their life and allow group management, as they as- of two very different CoP Circles them to move forward with a new sumed a more informal air. The in Sydney: perspective on life. For busy upside of this format was that the women, the 2 day format may ladies built up close relationships Weekend CoP Circle: prove easier to commit to, rather over the weeks, and the Circle than short periods over several easily became a highlight of eve- weeks. ryone’s week. As a facilitator, For a novice like myself, a week- meeting once a week was also end it is definitely intensive so it’s more relaxing.

important to be well prepared in All this was a world away from the program material, exercises, Shoshana Faire and I co-facilitated first CoP Circle I attended 6 years DVD’s, photocopied handouts and in a friend’s home who also par- ago that ran over 6 sessions which setting-up of the meeting room. ticipated in the circle. was a very gentle introduction to Cooperative planning between I noticed the freedom of just ar- this exciting new world for me. I This was held at my home over the facilitators is crucial, as is riving to the Circle, and being was instantly hooked. two full consecutive days. My co- good time-keeping and the ability able to take time out with my co- facilitator Trish McDonald- to be flexible, and clear time My transition from being a partici- facilitator to discuss the progress pant to becoming a Facilitator has Harrison and I met beforehand to management of the participants and next steps when needed. decide how the gathering points been an enriching and rewarding is crucial. Each weekly gathering included a experience I’d recommend to anyone were to be divided over the 16 Being a host and co-facilitator lively 45 minute lunch session. considering taking the next step to hours; who was to cover each simultaneously worked well for becoming a Creators of Peace Facili- topic; and how. Being my first I was more prepared this second me on one level, because I didn’t tator. attempt at facilitation, I was both time round, but I still gleaned lots need to travel. On the other hand, by Zohra Aly - Sydney Australia excited and anxious. However, of know-how from Shoshana who it can add stress to the facilitator Trish had run many a circle, and is a facilitator by occupation. We

Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - August 2013 edition REPORTS OF CREATORS OF PEACE CIRCLES AROUND THE GLOBE Page 6 of 7

Kenya: “Enhancing Women’s capacity in Peace Building” by Shoshana Faire senger of peace. Much of this is be no peace in the country or in whispered into my ear by Esther the world ‘til there is peace in the who is kindly and skillfully inter- home and within, and that preting for me when needed. women are the first teachers of how to be this. Over the days there was much connection, love, laughter and I had the feeling that the women tears. And of course there was a left from their time in Nakuru very energetic evening of African dance. The Reunion was followed by a 3 day Facilitation Training run by Joy Mbaabu and myself with 14 women participants and one man All photos by Mbindyo Kimanthi - AnnNjeri’s husband who was AnnNjeri (who was 7 and a half Camps. Most had experienced a also filming. They shared their months pregnant at the time), CoP Circle. fears and desires, delved into the touched, renewed, and inspired. together with her small team of qualities of a CoP facilitator, cre- The reunion opened with both a Their hearts opened, they have helpers, pulled together a ating safety, facilitating story Muslim and a Christian prayer connected with themselves and Creators of Peace Reunion in sharing and reflection sessions - and the national anthem. The others. Many shared over the Kenya. the deeper purpose of each of the program included an active exer- days how Creators of Peace has gathering points. They were each Women arrived bringing great cise of getting to meet everyone; already impacted and changed tasked to prepare and facilitate a excitement, anticipation and a historical time line of CoP them and those around them. I section of the CoP Circle pro- tales of their journeys getting to Kenya; opening addresses by Joy can only hope and trust that as a gram. The women of Kenya are the St Mary’s Pastoral Centre Mbaabu (Director of Amani Com- result of this reunion there will be such an inspiration. conference centre in Nakuru. munities, Africa) and myself; many more impacts to come. family groups that meet several What I loved most is the way they Many had experienced what I And for me there were more deli- times; early morning reflection can laugh at themselves when would call ‘challenging’ forms of cious experiences to come before sessions; a planning session; a their attempts to facilitate are transport - back of bikes, I left Kenya. A visit to Nakuru session on conflict transforma- clumsy or off the mark. They are crowded buses, along very National Park where we spotted tion, and most significantly sev- so keen to learn. bumpy dusty roads. I know that many birds and animals including eral sessions of story sharing. for a fact as the only road to the “The Lion King” and Lake Bogoria centre has many large potholes The women queued up for a where we saw the flamingos. and plenty of dust. chance to share their stories - I spent my last night in Nairobi which had themes of forgive- The Reunion unfolded over 3 days together with AnnNjeri and ness, transformation and em- with 57 Kenyan women, and 2 Mbindyo for dinner joined by powerment. Some were over- men who helped with logistics Jean and Mike Brown who had whelmingly sad, many inspiring, and filming, and me (‘little just arrived from South Sudan. and all told with great spirit and whitey’ as my husband pointed dignity. I found I was holding I acknowledge IofC Australia, CoP me out in the photo above). The myself together as I was con- In the middle of the training we Sydney, the Friends of Africa women came from a variety of fronted by horrendous suffering, were delighted by an unplanned fund, Silvia Zuber fund, and IofC areas and a cross section of tribal and overwhelmed by the spirit of visit by the Iman and the Pastor Kenya for their generous financial backgrounds. Some were from survival and the will to be a mes- who reminded us that there will support of these two events. Internal Displaced Persons A participant’s view of a CoP further. In reviewing my responses to con- flict, whether at home, at work or on the Circle by Emilia Bresciani streets, I discovered some hidden frailties and In my active life where energy often runs was able to explore ways to bring myself to low, my weekend at the CoP Circle in Mos- balance. man, Sydney was truly energising. More than the delicious food, the wonderful costumes The links made will remain with me forever. some women wore, what touched me deeply The web formed as we passed a ball of wool were the heart stories shared by my peace across to each other represented our connec- sisters. Each of us spoke from spaces in the tion. It was a miniature reflection of the divine heart that had surpassed conflict. Many of us matrix that unites humanity. The flavour of each other’s culture wasn’t only in the food or had fought internal battles and overcome great Diversity, gave us the strength to ac- the rhythm of conversation, but in our desire emotional storms; many of us had surren- cept how privileged we were to live here. As to create peace. I was reminded that cultures dered our resistance in exchange for we bonded, and we listened to each other, we were multilayered, that some concepts I took courage; many had learned to forgive. realised we had one thing in common: Our for granted didn’t exist, or if they did, they The fact that some came from Mexico, South humanity. Sudan, Peru, South Africa, Germany, U.K. wore a different costume. I took with me and those born here came from Yugoslav, I already work for peace in what I do, but de- great friendships and genuine acceptance Hungarian and Italian/Spanish backgrounds spite my preparation and readiness to deal that global diversity and personal growth are and that we were also part of Australia’s with conflict the weekend enriched me the true ingredients of the peace experience.

Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - August 2013 edition Page 7 of 7 Reports from around Australia

Auburn, Sydney: Monthly CoP Gatherings Auburn, Sydney: Small dynamic group plan to An Information Evening in Maroubra put peace into action by Tanya Fox

It had been 12 months since a CoP Circle was run in the eastern suburbs of Sydney.

My friend Hilary was keen to facilitate her

first CoP Circle since doing Facilitation Train-

ing in September, so we both decided to co-

facilitate a Creators of Peace Information

by Fatma Isir & Trish McDonald-Harrison by Ida Mackay & Joyce Fraser Evening in Maroubra.

In March 2013, 9 participants of a CoP Circle In June 2013, a small group of 5 ladies attended The local shopping centre very kindly offered contemplated “Where to from here?”, and a CoP Circle in Auburn located 15 kilometres us the use of their community meeting room requested ongoing monthly meetings to west of Sydney. The group reflected the diver- which was suitable for a public event and share feedback on ‘how I’m creating peace’; sity of Auburn, with only one Australian born conveniently situated on public transport. continue on the CoP journey, and to bring woman in the group. The others were born in We designed Flyers with an inviting headline friends to get a taste of what CoP is about. India, Nepal, Uruguay and UK and all enjoy full written in five languages entitled Initiate Now there’s a regular monthly gathering on lives in Australia. peace in the family, your community and the the 4th Saturday of each month in Auburn a This mix led to very interesting discussions as wider world. Nine women attended (one community of 124 different cultures. Each we worked through the Gathering Points. Our drove 30 kilometers to be there). They were month new women join in, a different Gath- hostess, a Jewish lady, was very moved & in- all instantly engaged and asked if we would ering Point is discussed, and community spired by the Muslim lady and welcomed her to start a CoP Circle the very next week. Except building plans emerge. say her prayers in her home. for the lady from far away, they have all com- We all enjoyed each other’s company and have menced a 6 weekly sessions CoP Circle. planned to put peace into action by having dis- Watch this space for our report in the next A CoP Information Evening in Canberra, cussions with community leaders about organis- edition. ACT by Cynthia Lawler ing CoP Circles and workshops to bring women In late May Shoshana Faire met with 12 from diverse backgrounds together. A CoP Catch-up Luncheon on the Sunshine women in Canberra. They represented a Coast, Queensland range of age groups, professions and nation- by Lesley Bryant alities - from Australia, Asia and Africa. Sho- Annual Reunion of lasting CoP friendships in Curl Curl, Sydney Seven of us gathered for a ‘Creators of Peace’ shana had just returned from Kenya two Luncheon at LeJardin’s, Flaxton on the Sun- days before, yet any hint of jet lag was soon by Sandra Blamey shine Coast. We were residents from Sun- dispelled by her vivacious and captivating shine Coast, Gold Coast, , and two report of her travels. She outlined the basic overseas visitors from Saskatchewan, Can- structure of a CoPeace Circle, and the train- ada. We shared stories of our connections ing required to be a facilitator, and answered with IofC - Lorraine for nearly 50 years, Minna many questions. in Finland and Caux about 20 years, and Les- Even at this occasion some ‘matters of the ley about 10 years, and spoke about a passion heart’ surfaced and discussion occurred for peace that we all share. around these, demonstrating in microcosm It was really great to hear about the thesis what can happen in a CoP circle. Two that Minna has written about Creators of women who had driven three hours from In May our group from 2006 had another Peace which is currently being translated Wagga Wagga talked about the evening all reunion, we meet a couple of times a year and from Finnish into English. the way home while being mindful of large catch up at our favourite surfside café at South We plan to have a CoP Circle on the Sunshine trucks and kangaroos on the road. Curl Curl. Coast in September. DONATIONS ARE NEEDED **Want to participate in Creators of Peace a CoP Circle in your Facilitators! Creators of Peace is a voluntary not-for-profit international program depending region? Stay connected to our entirely on the passion and commitment of our dedicated CoP volunteers. growing global network However we need ongoing funds to: **Need a co-Facilitator  Respond to requests from regions of post conflict for CoP Circles, and Facilitation to run a CoP Circle with Keep sending in your Training. you? reports, photos, stories  Help subsidize our volunteer international Facilitators who travel across the world to and future plans for the co-facilitate CoP Circles and conduct Facilitation Training **Want a Facilitation next edition of the  Enable some staffing to provide essential services to develop our worldwide network. Training or a Global Connections  Have capacity to reimburse expenses laid out by volunteers for printing, Facilitator’s Refresher newsletter. photocopying, catering supplies, etc . Course?

Submit articles of no DONATIONS WOULD BE GRATEFULLY RECEIVED Contact: Jean Brown more than 200 words to: PLEASE DEPOSIT to Account Name: Creators of Peace [email protected] [email protected] The UBS Bank in Geneva, Switzerland. Account details are: UBS Current A/c No. 0279 205561.60E Editor and Producer: Tanya Fox, Sydney Australia IBAN : CH050027927920556160E [email protected] BIC : UBSWCHZH80A Co-Editor: Nathalie Hayes, Sydney Australia [email protected]

Creators of Peace “Global Connections” Newsletter - August 2013 edition