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 Bhoomi from Chua Chu Kang Secondary School:
Q: How did you feel about the Peacemakers Conference 2017?
It was the first time I attended something like that. To be honest though, I was excited but superrr scared on the first day, especially when I found out that my friends and I were split into different groups. But after we got into our groups, the fun we had was immense. Peacemakers definitely taught me a lot of things every single day. I don’t think the values and skills I learnt here can be taught anywhere else. Every moment of this conference was one the best times I have had.
Q: What was your favourite part of the Conference?
My favourite part was when we went for the competition rounds and our skills were put to the test. I think that was the best type of assessment I have ever had. The acting I got to do when I was playing a party, and the laughter that I had to hold in when I was mediator because the parties were putting up a fantastic show, were AMAZING!
Q: What is an example of you applying what you learned in the Conference in real life?
There were times where I had to face friends who were in deep conflict because of things that happened in Secondary 1, which they only decided to bring up and fight about in Secondary 4. Since I am good friends with both of them, I knew what I had learnt at the Conference would come in handy then. I was able to stay neutral and hear out both of their views, then I helped them in unfolding each of their situations so that both of them could be able to see each other’s perspectives too. Although they are still not best friends today, I am glad that they now acknowledge one another with a smile when they pass by.
Q: If you had one piece of advice for incoming participants of the Peacemakers Conference 2018, what would it be?
To those attending this conference this year: Don’t be nervous, and be enthusiastic in whatever you do. Be open to learning things you never knew existed, and have loads and loads of fun!
For more pictures and videos of the Peacemakers Conference 2017, 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.
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