SDGs

International Mediator: Thankless Job with Invaluable Skills for a More Peaceful World

International Mediator: Thankless Job with Invaluable Skills for a More Peaceful World

Most of us feel ill-equipped to broker peace agreements between warring parties, yet one mediator explains how powerful the skills she gleaned from her IMA New Mediator training were to her work in fostering peace in Zimbabwe. Patience Chiradza never expected to become a peacebuilder, but a high-level government position in her country presented opportunities she did not anticipate. The skills gained while mediating real-life experiences combined with the training she received from us ultimately transformed her into a highly respected international mediator.

Mediation Skills Empower Kenyan Women Leaders to Transform Conflict into Opportunities

Mediation Skills Empower Kenyan Women Leaders to Transform Conflict into Opportunities

A group of women leaders in Kenya approached Interaction Management Associates seeking virtual mediation training. IMA had never conducted such a training, so we had no idea how transformative the course would be for this powerful group of peacebuilders. After she took the IMA New Mediator Course, Jayne Waithitu shared how mediation training has enriched her work with Peace Warriors Organization (PWO). Jayne is the founder and inspiration behind this women-led, non-profit in Kenya focused on empowering women and girls to encourage political and economic participation. As an undergraduate student in international development with an interest in conflict resolution, I was struck by the hope-filled perspective with which these women approach their work and the vision they have for Kenya’s future. Jayne’s inspirational journey with peacebuilding made me realize the potential of mediation training to positively impact communities around the world.