Transformation often begins in ways that feel messy and difficult. For many, the lotus is a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and rising above challenges. The lotus only blooms when rooted in rich mud. Human beings also flower best when rooted in the primordial, muddy, creative life energy of feelings and needs: internally, relationally, socially, and systemically.
Compassionate Nonviolent Communication (NVC) offers practical ways to nourish our emotional roots so we can bloom in adversity. You are invited to join us in reflecting on the often unspoken ways culture shapes how we navigate stress and relate to each other.
NVC was developed by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg through his civil rights work in US schools (1970’s/80’s). He was inspired by Carl Rogers’ Humanistic psychology, the compassionate nonviolence movements led by Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi, as well as Paolo Freire‘s transformative empowerment of communities through social literacy. NVC applies these big ideas to interpersonal communication in ways that exercise both our autonomy and our interdependence. This involves three main practices that can support deep resilience, stronger relationships, and even intergenerational healing:
- Self-empathy and self-honesty,
- Honest assertive speech, free from character attack, blaming, and shaming,
- Empathic listening and connection, without being flooded by another’s feelings.
This training focuses on the core NVC practices of self-empathy and self-honesty. This is foundational for honest assertive speech and genuine empathic listening. It is essential for self-regulating and co-regulating emotions so we can enter difficult discussions with emotional maturity, mindfulness, and mutual care.
OUR PURPOSE
To contribute, in a small but meaningful way, to a more resilient and connected Ottawa.
This training explores NVC in cross-cultural contexts of care, leadership, transition, and systems navigation. Let’s share space for honest, culturally resonant, emotionally grounded dialogue centering BIPOC and first-generation immigrant experiences, in particular Asian Canadian. Together, let’s strengthen our collective capacity for empathy, clarity, connection, and well-being.
FORMAT & FACILITATION
Session format features: lecture, group discussion, reflective writing, case study, and interactive learning.
This training is co-facilitated by Marion Little and Ines Huang (see link for biographies). Marion and Ines hold expertise in NVC, conflict transformation, and mediation. Marion will lead the training in English and Ines will co-facilitate, offering Mandarin translation for activities and discussion. Both will reflect on cross-cultural considerations and share practical applications for NVC at work, at home, and in community.
Presentation in English with Mandarin translation for activities & discussion
TRAINING DETAILS
Discussions will explore NVC in cross-cultural contexts. This event focuses on NVC applications for BIPOC and first-generation immigrant experiences, in particular Asian Canadian. We welcome all who are curious about NVC as a way to support cross-cultural connection in their communities.
This learning experience is designed for those navigating care, responsibility, and change—in personal life, work, or both. In addition to practical communication tools, participants will apply new skills to real-life tensions and discover fresh perspectives to increase spaciousness and choice in moments of tension.
This is a culturally sensitive space for organizational leaders, service professionals, front-line workers, caregivers, family, and community members to explore respectful emotionally honest communication.
FEES
- $255/person early bird rate until May 25
- $255/nonprofit rate
- $325/person regular rate
Fees include catered snacks & lunch.
Registration closes at noon June 2
Space is limited to 30 participants.
LOCATION
Ottawa ON, Canada
Street address provided after registration
Location is a 5-10 minute walk from Bayview Station (Line 1 & 2, Ottawa LRT)
Free parking
Event Coordinator: Ines Huang
Questions? Please contact: yesgiftplanning@gmail.com