“In Buganda, a tribe in Uganda, is a saying that goes Agali awamu, gegaluma ennyama,” shared Dominic Savio Nkuubi of Alpha Youth Volunteer Corps, as he opened our gathering at Western’s Outback Farm.
Around our circle were students, professors, staff, and community members interested in working together to improve our university’s relationship to food — potential members of the nascent WWU Food System Collective.
All of us cared enough to show up, but each was unsure how the event and our work going forward would unfold. Surely some wondered if they belonged, or if their time may have been better spent that afternoon on homework or grading papers.
Dominic continued, explaining that the phrase “literally translated into one tooth can’t bite through meat, but a set of teeth can easily bite meat. Meaning that where people get together and put their efforts together, they can be able to achieve.” His message was: You belong here. You’re needed. I’m glad you’re here.
Shoulders relaxed. Feet shuffled with ease and comfort on the wood chips. We sipped our tea with more patience and enjoyment.
Next, we turned our attention to the beautiful picnic table-themed bench in our circle bearing the phrase “Are you hungry?”
We asked each person to respond to that question by sharing one desire — one hunger — they have related to Western’s relationships to food.
As we went around the circle, we heard hopes for collaboration, new opportunities, more visibility for vital resources, and more.
We were energized. We were in.
You might try providing a powerful frame.
As a convener, you are welcoming people into a space of uncertainty and vulnerability. Show your care for the learning space, and for each person, by providing a frame that let’s people know:
I see you.
I’m glad you’re here.
You have something to offer.
We’re here to learn together.
The video above is another example. In it, you see me trying to enliven the social learner within everyone at a “Cultivating Joy at WWU” event on a rainy Tuesday morning in a rather uninspiring lecture hall.
But I was determined! My favorite part (around 40 seconds into the video) is where I insist that people ACTUALLY make the motion to “toss” joy up in front of them. (Almost) everyone did it! Sometimes it takes a little extra gusto.
Elements that I often include as I strive to provide a powerful frame to enable rich social learning include (and I’ve labeled these elements in the video):
Calling in Social Learners — Gently bring people into a social learning formation (often a circle-ish thing) and bring to our minds the intersection of our our lives and our focus topic.
Honoring our Roots & Support — Recognize what’s made it possible for us to gather as social learners. Includes lifting up our ancestors and land & water caretakers.
Honoring our Challenges — Let people know that it’s OK to be unsure, bruised, and uncomfortable. That’s life. But despite barriers, we can do this.
Honoring the Work Before Us — A call to action. This is important, and we’re people who can make a difference.
So…
How do you open your social learning spaces?
What’s your favorite way to help people find the social learner within?
I can’t wait to hear your story.
Reply to this email, or leave a comment below.
More soon.
Cheers,
Travis
The Joy of Convening explores how we can facilitate learning and connection across boundaries — with purpose, playfulness, and care.
Follow along for tools, stories, and conversations that help us convene with more joy and impact.
Thanks for reading The Joy of Convening! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
