Say No to Racism Training

The Say No to Racism – training equips participants with the skills and awareness to take safe and constructive action when witnessing racism. The training is specifically designed to enable bystanders to become active advocates for a racism-free workplace and community.

Training activities are based on experiential learning and Forum Theatre where participants are encouraged to learn and reflect by doing. This approach allows participants to put themselves in realistic situations with the opportunity to practice the tools and language required for safe and constructive intervention.

The training was developed by Polykala in collaboration with the City of Darebin with support from the Australian Government Department of Social Services.

Trainers:

Tom Henderson, Director of Polykala.

Tom is a Harvard-trained facilitator and graduate of the Groupwork Institute of Australia’s Advanced Diploma of Group Facilitation. He is committed to bringing the best ideas and practice to where it counts in Australia.

He combines a decade of professional experience in media associations, politics and community organisations. He facilitates and trains with an eye for inclusivity and detail. His ability to observe and reflect ensures multiple perspectives are explored with authenticity and courage. Tom has a passion for working with people in an open and engaged environment.

Ananth Gopal, Director of Polykala.

Ananth is a trained actor and geographer. He’s an associate artist with Melbourne Playback Theatre Company. He teaches cultural geography at the Universities of Melbourne and Wollongong. He is a doctoral student at the Australian Centre of Cultural Environmental Research (University of Wollongong) and has completed the Art and Practice of Leadership development at the J.F Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.

His work focuses on how people craft meaning and develop purpose in spaces and organisations. He combines theatrical flair and scholarly insight in his training and facilitation. He sees reflective practice as a central feature of effective interpersonal training.