Souspilnist Foundation in collaboration with Vidkrytyi Prostir NGO is launching a program for journalists and students at journalism schools – “12 Months of Resilience”.
The 12 Months of Resilience program is the first pilot program in Ukraine helping create peer support groups among journalists.
During the three months, the participants will be receiving basis information and support on how to create step by step a journalistic peer support group.
For whom is this program?
Journalists and students at journalism schools are invited to participate.
Practicing journalists can create or join a journalistic peer support group; students at journalism schools can join a student peer group to acquire skills in creating and conducting a peer support group to later bring those skills to the professional community.
What is a peer support group?
It is a group of peer specialists (the participants are peers in their position and work), regularly meeting once or twice a month to discuss and analyze professional situations, share knowledge or experiences.
What does participation in a peer support group enable you to do?
- enhance the quality of journalistic work;
- receive support from those who really understand your working conditions and challenges;
- share experiences and seek solutions together;
- enhance mental well-being;
- prevent professional burnout.
The key success factor for such groups are the trained initiators/moderators who organize and conduct group meetings to implement various initiatives to support colleagues or discuss work-related issues. We are seeking and inviting to take part in the Program those who feel ready to be such “guides”.
Program’s duration and format?
It is a three-month program. From March through May, the events will be held online in Zoom
The final offline event is scheduled to be held in June – a retreat event and presentation of successful cases in the Carpathians (in accordance with safety regulations during quarantine) for those who complete training and create a peer support group.
The training program includes a series of online meetings with experts and well-known journalists of up to 2 hours, focusing on the following topics:
- peculiarities of peer support groups, principles and techniques of facilitation (including online);
- how to deal with cyber-bullying and other journalistic challenges;
- how to build connections and tackle hard questions;
- first psychological aid among peers.
The program’s hallmark?
Personal interaction with the participants, accompanied by interesting challenges and experiments. Mentor support will be provided via the Telegram channel, as well as 24/7 personal support.
Special requirements?
Putting into practice the recommendations on starting a peer support group is a must.
The program includes creating peer support groups and implementing initiatives to support journalists.
Applications to be submitted by 10 p.m. on February 28. Get registered on https://cutt.ly/BkyJ9YG.
All program expenses are covered by the organizers.
For more details, follow the event’s Facebook page.
This program is implemented with the support of the International Renaissance Foundation and the European Union as part of the Humanity and Mutual Assistance humanitarian initiative.
