In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Vera Tan from Paya Lebar Methodist Girls' School:

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

I actually learnt so much at last year’s Peacemakers Conference. One discovery would be understanding and exploring mediation. I have never heard of this term before and if it wasn't for this Conference I bet I would not have known that this existed. I really enjoyed this Conference as I was able to experience what mediation looked like and how I could carry it out.

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

The most unforgettable part of the Conference would be when we simulated mediations. It is really etched in my memory as we could choose between being a mediator or the parties who needed help with solving the problem. I guess by being in the mediator’s seat, I experienced what it is like to be thinking on our feet and to be understanding to the parties. Many times I was faced with awkward silence as I did not know how to carry on to prompt the parties to be constructive in working towards solving their problem. Being in the party's seat was as fun because you had to play the role out and sometimes it really required us to have those emotions. It was really a blast trying to make the problem as challenging as I could make it for the mediators and the other party.

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

I have learnt to apply the skills I learnt from this Conference in many situations. One scenario would be in a group project. I used to ignore other people's conflicts because I thought that I was incapable to solve them or try to help them come to a satisfactory conclusion. But now after learning this skill, I managed to put it into practice and try stepping in, to understand them and help them come to a fair conclusion. I would not say that my efforts alone helped them arrive at a fair conclusion, but I believe that I actually brought the tension down and allowed them to be more cooperative when working with each other.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

Open your heart and mind, don’t be pessimistic about it. Just give your best and try not to be awkward around people. Be open to making new friends!

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.

In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Nur Kaisah Binte Abdul Kadir from Evergreen Secondary School:

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

It was unexpectedly a really fun-filled time because even though there was the element of competition, I learnt so many new things over a short span of 3 days. I got to see a side of Law that isn’t usually talked about and made plenty of new friends too 🙂

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

I will never forget the first morning where I was completely ready to be bored for the next 3 days but was immediately proved wrong when we started playing a game where everyone had to mingle around and make a fool of themselves. (It was something to do with a chicken version of scissors paper stone?) That game enabled me to mix around with people from other schools and make friends in the process so I truly enjoyed it.

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

I think my one true takeaway from this Conference is that listening is key. If you don’t well listen to your clients, then you will never reach a settlement. The same goes for relationships in real life where being able to understand multiple points of view is crucial. This skill has been applied in my duties as president of my CCA where different people have differing views and want to be heard so in that light, being able to sift everything out by listening and understanding is very important to me.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

To all future participants, just remember to take this new challenge head on! You never know until you try, so do give the activities a go! I think the most important thing to note is that if you’re shy or feel bad about how you’ve performed, remember that everyone there is trying it out for the very first time too, so there’s no shame in asking questions or faring badly on the first round ^.^ In that light, the facilitators are all extremely friendly and enthusiastic, so if you are ever having any difficulties, you can always approach them (:

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.

In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Tew Chun Hui from Jurong West Secondary School:

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

My overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018 was wonderful and fantastic. It was a great experience to learn the basics of mediation and how conflicts can be solved in a peaceful manner. The mentors also gave a great interpretation of how mediation works and how we can apply it to our everyday lives.

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

The most unforgettable part for me was meeting new people at the Conference. Even though we may come from different schools, we were able to click very well. During the competition between different schools, we would often help each other when in doubt. We saw it as a friendly competition and would always cheer on other schools to do their best!

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

I remember an occasion when my friends had a miscommunication but neither of them took action to resolve it. I felt like I had to do something about the situation, and luckily the training from the mentors about mediation at last year’s Conference really helped. In the end, both of them had a better understanding of each other perspectives and learnt to be more flexible and open-minded.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

One piece of advice I want to give to the incoming participants is to enjoy your time there and try your best to take in as much information about mediation, as they may be very useful to apply in the future when conflicts arise. Ask questions if you do not understand as sometimes things may not be clear to you. If you have any doubts, always remember to clarify with the mentors.

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.

In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Rae Ang from Raffles Girls' School:

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

The Peacemakers Conference 2018 was extremely fulfilling and fun! The facilitators were very engaging which allowed the three days to (sadly) pass very quickly. We had many opportunities to hone the skills that we were taught through discussions as well as different scenarios for us to practice these skills in smaller groups.

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

For me, the most unforgettable part of the Conference was acting as one of the parties in the competition rounds. Our mediators were trying their best to help both parties to reach an agreement but the opposing party and I absolutely refused to give way to each other. During the competition rounds, when acting as parties, some students "threw tables", some fake-cried, and some parties actually screamed at each other. In the end, it was all in good fun and the competition rounds were really one of the main highlights of my 3 days at the Peacemakers Conference.

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

I have definitely applied some of the skills I learned at the Peacemakers Conference at times, especially when faced with conflict. While I never used the skills the more formal and structured way that we were taught, I found myself unknowingly using the key concepts when trying to resolve conflict. The skills I learned taught me how to firstly, remove myself from the situation and remain objective. After that, how to empathise with both parties and help them understand each others’ points of view.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

To the participants of Peacemakers Conference 2019, I would like to encourage you to keep open-minded to all the new skills taught and to have as much fun as you can (maybe flip a table or two!)

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.

In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Shreya Raman from Raffles Girls' School:

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

At first I was bit apprehensive to go for the Peacemakers Conference as I was afraid it would be very challenging for me. However, I am very glad that I pushed myself to go for this because I have learnt so many invaluable things. The facilitators brought us through it very smoothly and easily so it was very easy to understand. I really enjoyed it as I got to interact with students from other schools and make new friends along the way.

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

The most unforgettable part would be the competition rounds. After we were taught the process, we were able to put it into practice by playing the roles of both the mediators and parties, while getting feedback from professional mediators. These were not only informative but fun as well.

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

When conflicts arise, while doing group work in school, it could escalate into a huge argument. Using my new-found knowledge and experiences from the roleplay scenarios, I can mediate between my groupmates and help them reach a resolution from which both parties can benefit.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

Go in with an open mind and don’t be afraid to try new things and step out of your comfort zone because there will be a lot of guidance from the facilitators and the new friends you will make. It is a really fun and beneficial journey so just make sure to have a blast and carry this knowledge with you to the real world!

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.

In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Elizabeth Wee from Holy Innocents' High School:

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

It was a very eye-opening experience for me as I had never attended any similar Conference like Peacemakers before. Overall, I really enjoyed the Conference, especially the competition we had in the last 2 days. It really allowed me to experience the real character of being a mediator, as well as put myself into the shoes of others to see what different scenarios they might face. I learnt a lot from it. Of course, I also interacted with leaders from different schools!

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

The most unforgettable part was me experiencing being a mediator. I might not be good at it but having the chance to get into the character of a mediator really made me feel like mediation was my profession and that I was really solving a problem for the two parties.

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

Having the experience to be a mediator taught me the different values and qualities I had never found in myself before, for example being empathetic towards the parties. In real life, there are many times we need to empathise with different people’s problems. The Conference made me realise that when put into a stressful situation, I can be empathetic towards others and help them to talk it out instead of giving my own solutions to solve their problems.

Another example is having patience. When faced in a situation where someone is being repetitive with their words, I need to have patience in order to calm the person down and allow the person to open up slowly. This can be used in real life as there are many times where we need patience in the things we do, be it teaching others or when we are with our friends. Even when we face an obstacle that we can’t overcome, we need patience to allow ourselves to work harder and strive better. Sometimes trying once isn’t enough, thus you try again. And if you fail again, give it another go.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

I would tell the incoming participants to enjoy themselves and make good use of the 3 days during the Conference. Take away something or even try something new cause that’s what I did! There are many other school leaders there so take this opportunity to know how other schools run things and make friends with them 🙂

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.

In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Baranikumar Saritha Padmanaban from Montfort Secondary School:

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

To put it simply, I had a blast! I thought I knew what I signed up for, but the unexpected happened. I thought we were going to have the typical boring lectures but instead, we had a lot of fun activities and interesting ways of learning mediation! I felt like I was brought to another world where learning seemed…interesting! I feel very fortunate to have participated in this Conference and I wish I had the chance to participate once again (pretty sure all of us who went last year would feel the same!).

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

It is quite common to stumble upon a conflict or an issue between your friends, peers or even family members. In my case, my mother and my father had an argument over an issue and I was really concerned about it. I was thinking about what to do about their issue and then I remembered that I could use mediation. Mediation has taught me how exactly to handle these types of situations and so, I conducted mediation…with my parents. I really value this skill of “mediating” as it really helped me in other situations and incidents when it comes to parties that have an issue with each other.

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

I remember an occasion when my friends had a miscommunication but neither of them took action to resolve it. I felt like I had to do something about the situation, and luckily the training from the mentors about mediation at last year’s conference really helped. In the end, both of them had a better understanding of each other perspectives and learnt to be more flexible and open-minded.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

DEFINITELY sign up for this Conference, I HIGHLY recommend you taking part in this. It may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I guarantee you that you will NOT regret this. These skills you learn today will benefit you greatly tomorrow! The facilitators are really kind, helpful and funny XD Gain as much as knowledge and information as you can, be yourself and have a blast! (づ｡◕‿‿◕｡)づ

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.

In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Stella Tan from Yishun Town Secondary School:

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

Overall, it was a really interesting and engaging experience. For me, it was an opportunity to gain new knowledge and to grow as an individual. I didn't expect much from this Conference, but I learned so many things about myself and mediation, and met so many amiable and interesting people. It was a very rewarding experience that I'm very grateful for, and I'm pretty sure that future participants will enjoy this conference as much as I did!

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

The most unforgettable part of the Conference was getting to know and bond with different people. As everyone had differing views and methods on how to conduct a mediation, it was really interesting to see them learn and try their best. I also got the chance to get to know and communicate with people from different schools, and forge friendships that I wouldn't have had if I hadn't participated in this Conference.

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

There was a conflict with two of my closest friends. It wasn't an easy thing, as both of them are people I that I deeply care for. I learnt how to to listen to their thoughts and respond appropriately, and to think in their points of view.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

The most important thing is to have fun while also learning, and open your mind and heart to learn and meet new people, and you'll definitely have a fulfilling experience!! :^>

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.

In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Carlyne Li from NUS High School of Math and Science:

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

It was a really memorable and enriching experience for me. Meeting peers with a common goal of learning how to mediate effectively, and learning skills that could be used in everyday life make me treasure those 3 days well!

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

The most unforgettable part of the Conference was when I received the first case study of the issue that I had to mediate. I was really anxious and nervous as it was my first time mediating. However, one of the facilitators saw me looking stressed and came over to tell me not to worry. I can’t remember the exact words she said, but she told me to be calm and treat the mediation like I was talking to my friend. In the end, the advice really did help and I, together with my teammate, had a lot of takeaways from the session!

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

It would definitely be mediating small arguments between peers. Helping them reach a resolution that both parties are satisfied with gave me a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment, and I’m really thankful to be given the opportunity to learn all these skill sets through the Peacemakers’ Conference!

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

Be inquisitive and don’t be afraid to try! The facilitators are really friendly and approachable, so use this opportunity to ask as many questions as you want and learn as much as you can! 🙂

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.

In our interview series, entitled “Peace Talks”, we speak to peacemakers with different backgrounds and life stories, and ask them to share their thoughts and reflections. 

This edition of "Peace Talks" features Gabriel Ng from Anglo-Chinese School (Barker Road):

Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?

Going into the Conference, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I had learnt a lot more in the three days than I actually thought I would. It was an eye-opening experience for me as I learnt how to mediate and also managed to meet new people and forge some friendships. I am glad that I was given the chance to go for this Conference and hope that the experience will be great for the next batch of attendees.

Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?

Throughout the Conference there were many unforgettable moments, such as my first mediation experience or even bonding with people from other schools. However, what stood out most for me was the tour of the Supreme Court on Day 3, where we were given the opportunity to see the ins and outs of the place as well as learn about certain court procedures which I took much interest in.

Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?

While I haven't had the chance to practice mediation since the Conference, the skills which I learnt through it has definitely helped improve my conversational skills with others as I do feel that I am now a better listener and more patient as a person when hearing others rant or vent out frustrations.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?

Honestly just have fun. The Conference is a great learning experience but it won't be a fun one if you can't enjoy yourself. Don't be afraid to make new friends or approach other people at the Conference because in the end it’s all about the experience 🙂

Like what you see here? Sign up for the Peacemakers Conference 2019 today!

For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, please visit the Peacemakers Facebook Page.

As Singapore’s leading peer mediation experts, Peacemakers has an extensive track record of managing and delivering conflict resolution training for youth at both local and international levels. If you would like to train your youth to better manage conflict, let us know how we can help via email at mediate@peacemakers.sg.