Civil Rights Mediator Turned Children's Author Inspires a Legacy of Equity and Peace

Civil Rights Mediator Turned Children's Author Inspires a Legacy of Equity and Peace

Perhaps what I appreciate most about the field of mediation is that it is universally dynamic and impactful. Mediators across the globe are making significant inroads in established public institutions and government offices. One example is author, mediator and civil rights leader, William “Bill” Smitherman, based in Arizona, USA. I recently interviewed Bill, who is an IMA associate and participant in our Master Mediator program. I discovered a rare gem in the mediator community. His career has been devoted tirelessly to expanding equity in government, as well as the private business sector, through conciliation and mediation, culminating in a series of children’s books he has recently authored. The world could use more mediators like Bill Smitherman to pave the way for future generations of peacebuilders.

Five Powerful Open-ended Questions Mediators Use for Active Listening

Five Powerful Open-ended Questions Mediators Use for Active Listening

Open-ended questions can be great conversation starters for social and workplace situations. Unlike closed-ended questions, which only yield one-word answers, open-ended questions get people talking. Mediators rely on open-ended questions, as they are powerful active listening tools, essential for effectively navigating conflicts. Most importantly, they help to engage and empower people to respond in their own words.

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.