In my journey, from mediator to mediation coach, I have become fascinated by how magical mediation is in helping people collaborate to develop a mutually-satisfactory resolution to a conflict. The mediation process can inspire a person to unlock previously untapped sources of imagination, flexibility, productivity, and courage. Encouraging words, poignant questions, validation, acknowledgment of common interests, and reframing what parties say can miraculously quench and neutralize a long-lasting and heated conflict. A mediator does not have supernatural powers, but the transformative power of mediation is as mystifying as magic.
Peace Day Goal is Two Sides of the Same Coin: End Racism and Build Peace
Each year, the United Nations invites communities, organizations, and leaders across the globe to observe the International Day of Peace on September 21st. International Day of Peace is a twenty-four-hour period dedicated to strengthening the ideals of peace through nonviolence and cease-fire. Sustainable peace cannot be accomplished within twenty-four hours of nonviolence alone, however. It requires the relentless pursuit of creative peacebuilding. This year’s theme is both succinct and provocative: “End Racism. Build Peace.” Our team recognizes these two goals as two sides of the same coin. As long as racism exists, our world will not be at peace. It may seem lofty and impossible, but each of us can make an impact toward realizing this monumental vision of access to peace, irrespective of race.
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.