Issue link: https://takingitglobal.uberflip.com/i/1177976
How Did We Get Here? The TakingITGlobal team took a relational conversational approach to discuss student experiences and recommendations for the future. Each gathering followed its own particular protocol and practice, based on the dynamic of the group and team. In most cases, the conversation began with an opening land acknowledgement and address, which situated the conversation in Indigenous experiences and recognized responsibilities to land and communities in which we gathered. The opening also invoked ceremonial protocols, in which ancestors and spirit were invited into the conversation. In doing this, we sought to honour each individual and the wealth of knowledge they have carried through their bloodline, as well as their first-hand experience. The conversations were facilitated in a circle format which allowed for each individual to hold space and to offer their thoughts to the group in a welcoming and non-hierarchical way. The sessions focused on three overarching questions: Future Goals: How could you be better supported in the pursuit of your future goals? Post Secondary: If you had a moment with the president of your current or future college or university to give feedback on what they could do better, what would you tell them? Employment: What feedback do you wish you could provide to your current or future employer that would help you thrive in the workplace? Participants were invited to share their responses to these questions within the circle, as well as through artistic mediums, such as markers and paper or on a large chalkboard. After each question, the group would have time to debrief before moving to the next question. Built into the sessions were also opportunities for relationship building and networking. Each session invited participants to engage in less formal activities, where they could get to know each other and have fun. These activities allowed for trust within the group which fostered a strong sense of solidarity that supported candid sharing of perspectives and support networks during the sessions. Future Pathways Summit Report 8