IOA Launches New Virtual Symposium for Practicing Ombuds

The International Ombuds Association has announced a new annual event: the September Symposium. This year’s program, "Ombuds as Change Agents: Ombuds Intersections in the Modern World," will explore topics related to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and trauma, and how those intersect Ombuds practice. This event will take place over two half-days and include: intergenerational diversity; indigenous practices; neurodivergence; incorporating DEIB into workshop design; DEIB in the international context; trauma-informed Ombuds practice; and facilitated small group case study work. The Symposium will take place on September 20-21, 2023. 

September 20 

(7:00am-11:30am PDT)

Welcome 

Networking 

Session I: "Creating Culturally Inclusive Interactions for Visitors, Peers, and Organisational Partners from an Indigenous New Zealand Approach," presented by Christina Tay

In our work as organisational ombuds, we are in service to those that we interact with as visitors, peers, and organisational partners. A part of being in service is ensuring that we are providing holistic care in all of our interactions which extends to cultural consideration and the appropriate inclusion of cultural practices which whilst unique to certain tribes around the globe are all underpinned by the essence of kindness, caring, and respect. I would like to provide a brief introduction to cultural practices that I include from an indigenous New Zealand perspective.

Session II: Panel Discussion: "Cultural Perspectives on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in Ombuds Work, facilitated by Marlo Goldstein-Hoder. Panel participants: Arllon Souza Viçoso (IBM Americas & Brazilian Ombuds Association Director, Co-Chair Latin America Caribbean RAC), Jutta Reitmeier (Mars, Inc. Europe & CIS Ombudsman , Co-Chair Europe RAC), Zetu Makamandela-Mguqulwa (Owner and Director at ZetuMindshift, Chair of the Africa RAC), and Lily Xu (RTX Corporate Ombuds, IOA Board of Directors).

Four panelists representing Africa, Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific will share their perspectives and insights on the evolving landscape of DEIB in different cultural and organizational contexts.

Session III [TBA]

Session IV: "Generational Diversity in the Ombuds Arena," presented by Twillea Evans-Carthen

The presentation of information will include a conversation on moving boldly forward, looking in the rearview mirror of generational practices, understanding of intergenerational diversity, ageism, and behaviors to help enhance diversity awareness, practices, and behaviors for all to foster a culture of acceptance, respect, fairness, transparency, and belonging among fellow colleagues and others.

Break

AMA: Ask Me Anything

Small Group Discussion

Keynote: Sunn m'Cheaux, Gullah/Geechee linguist, activist, and instructor at Harvard University.

Closing Remarks

September 21 

(2:00pm-6:30pm PDT)

Welcome

Networking

Session V: "PEC'ing Order: The Journey of Creating a Space of Emotional Resilience During the Emergence of Challenges to DEI," presented by Derrick Johnson

As an ombuds, Perceptions, Emotional Intelligence, and Coping Mechanisms (PEC) have intersectionality in the success or failure of the persistence to develop equitable-based processes, especially when faced with political or systematic challenges. How do we build support for the emotional effects the impact restrictive policy actions have on ombuds while maintaining the core goals of DEI and recognize that unique ombuds PEC experiences and intersectionality provide for better overall professional and personal development?

Session VI: "Self-Care for Ombuds Professionals: Navigating Trauma and Its Impact," presented by Tuba Bilecik

In this session, the participants will explore the crucial topic of self-care and its profound impact when working with individuals affected by trauma. The presentation aims to provide attendees with essential strategies for maintaining their well-being while navigating the complexities of ombuds work within diverse and dynamic environments. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of trauma's effects on both visitors and themselves, particularly in the way they engage in conflict resolution, and they will learn practical self-care techniques to enhance resilience and cultivate a supportive work environment.

Session VII: "Ombudsing Marginalized Communities That Are Retraumatized by Microaggression," presented by Aaron Footman

This session will explore how systemic traumas among marginalized community affects employees and the work environment. By examining how micro-aggressions can lead to psychological trauma among groups regularly encountering intense discriminatory incidents and practices throughout their lives. We will also explore how traumatic stress triggers mistrust and disenfranchisement in the workplace negatively impacts engagement and productivity. Finally, we will explore how intersectionality affects how one encounters and copes with microaggressions and trauma.

Session VIII: "Neurodivergent Ombudsing: Personal Reflections and Case Lessons," presented by Amanda Dean

The term neurodivergent has become the catch-all for many mental differences, everything from social preferences to ways of learning and communicating. In this session, an ombuds who identifies as neurodivergent will share her experiences ombudsing with a neurotypical brain and ombudsing for people who are neurodivergent.

Break

AMA: Ask Me Anything

Small Group Discussion

Keynote: Sunn m'Cheaux

Keynote Q&A

Closing Remarks

The Symposium is $275 for IOA members and $475 for non-members. (IOA Symposium Info.)