A diverse group of professional individuals and couples responded to the invitation extended by Step Out Promotions two weeks ago and signed up for the first public workshop on Conflict Resolution. They were not disappointed.
Facilitated by Vashtar Consulting Agency’s Rolande Tobias, the workshop was held at the Community Outreach Mentorship and Empowerment (COME) Center. Participants were engaged in personality surveys, a powerpoint presentation, motivational talk by the coordinators and finally treated to lunch after a certificate award ceremony. It was all held under the theme, Conflict Resolution: The Attitudes, Skills and Strategies for a Peaceful Environment.
Tobias’ presentation featured an 8 step guide to resolving conflict, however he was quick to point out that not all conflict can be resolved.
“Conflict is a natural disagreement resulting from individuals or groups differing in attitudes, beliefs, values or need. It has existed since the days of Cain and Abel and while no one can avoid conflict altogether, effective resolution is important. How well one handles conflict depends on a concern for one’s own needs versus concern for the needs of other.
You must be able to define the conflict objectively and not subjectively. Choose a neutral battleground, encourage everyone to speak, practice active listening and not passive hearing. List shared concerns and needs, determine the seriousness of objections, sum up agreement areas and make mutual benefit agreements, starting with what’s doable,” Tobias explained.
Among those in attendance were Shelly Alphonso, Miko Snijders, Nolyka Watson, Alphonso Missoudan, Ashma John, Marcia Nisbeth, Maureen Adams, Orlando Eights, Ingrid Gumbs, Charity Lady Destiny Dunker, Patricia Peter, Andrea McRae-Morrison, Earl Morrison, Celine Carty-Brookson, Lemuel Fleming, Gloria Basil-Henry, Janice Peters, Roseta Riley, Sanjana Manek, Marva Sam, Clarena Connor, Elizabeth Denton, Leon Denton, Stephen Gayle, Opal Weathers, Glenda Wilson, Arlene Wilson, Valerie Brazier, Shervin Woods, Elfleda Lake, Abiola Fleming, Jacqueline Wilson and Linda Moise.
Based on the feedback provided by participants, Step Out Promotions is pleased to announce that an advanced workshop on Conflict Resolution will be held on Saturday November 8, 2014 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the COME Center. This event will comprise more roleplaying and breakout sessions with practical applications of the models proposed by Tobias in the first workshop. For registration or to order a DVD of last Saturday’s session the general public is asked to call call 523-0901 or 523-9553 or emailing stepoutpromotions@gmail.com.