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 Asher Ang from Anglo-Chinese School (Barker Road):
Q: How was your overall experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018?
I had an enlightening experience at the Peacemakers Conference 2018 as this was the first time I had ever heard of mediation. It was well planned and filled with engaging activities, including multiple chances to simulate mediation scenarios and an excursion to the Supreme Court. I also found the facilitators to be very friendly and helpful in sharing advice and pointers to help us along the way. Any participant who attends the Conference is sure to benefit!
Q: What was the most unforgettable part of the Conference for you?
Simulating a real life mediation session would definitely be the most unforgettable part of the Conference for me both as a mediator and the disputing parties. It can be very entertaining to see how others deliver their given roles in the simulations especially when the disputing parties make it difficult for the mediators – it's even more fun to be one of the disputing parties! But it was at this point that I learnt the most. By observing how other students handled the same situation, and discussing our difficulties and how to better manage them (and listening to the facilitators’ feedback), I improved my own mediation techniques and mediated more effectively to help my parties come to a common agreement.
Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?
In the Conference, I was taught how to control my attitude, body posture, and facial expressions in order to make the parties feel more comfortable and willing to share. I have used this to my advantage in real life when others confide in me or are seeking my advice. I can make myself look more open and trusting to give them a safe space to share with me. Without even uttering a word, you can convey volumes of information to others.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to the incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2019, what would you tell them?
Enter the Conference with an open mind, mix around with others and try to make the most of this unique opportunity. If you are interested in Law, there are plenty of friendly facilitators who I'm sure will be happy to talk to you about what they know. Do also remember to enjoy yourself!
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.
