How long have you been volunteering with us?

2017 (20 – 30 workshops)

What are some of your most profound moments in workshops?

During a ‘in person’ workshop, a participant was brought to edge of tears just from the supportive feel of the room. After an online workshop, someone stayed behind to say thank you for the session. At first, I was surprised because he had been quiet for much of the session and I thought him uninterested. But when he spoke alone to just the facilitators, he mentioned he had felt suicidal during early lockdowns and that he had been greatly relieved just to hear that other people were also finding the period difficult. Despite being his teammates, he’d never talked to any of them about this.

What are some funny workshop anecdotes?

In every workshop, especially those with teams which know each other well, there are always some light-hearted moments. In one workshop I surprisingly met someone who I hadn’t seen for 4 years.

What is the most important thing you think others should know about us?

BE is ultimately about encouraging conversations. Genuine change happens through slow, non-judgmental reflection by yourself or with trusted friends. One workshop won’t change someone but it might just be enough to get them to talk about a difficulty the next time it arises.

How has volunteering with us changed you?

Interestingly, over the course of working with Goodlad/Beyond Equality, I’ve found I’m more able to navigate difficult conversations in other areas of my life, whether that be about a friend/parent’s grief or struggles, or even when negotiating a job contract.