October 18th and 19th sees the return of the annual conference for mediators on the island of Ireland – bigger than last year, full of practical lessons and learning points, and relevant to all mediators, regardless of your specialist sector or particular perspective.

And, for the first time in the MII’s history, we’re holding the conference in Belfast, the scene of much conflict and resolution over the past 50+ years. It’s now home to many examples of creative perspective-sharing and a variety of positive peace initiatives. So, lots of learning for mediators even before we look at the programme…

All of our speakers have been asked to share insights that will be of value to all mediators, so that delegates will gain knowledge from every session that may be applied by them in which ever sector they operate.

Full Conference Details with options for travel and accommodation and the booking link

We’re currently finalising sessions and speakers, and we can let you know that some of the topics will include:

* The Role of Mediators in Conflict Zones Part 1: with Baroness Cathy Ashton, former High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and First Vice President of the European Commission in the Barroso Commission from 2009 to 2014.

* The Role of Mediators in Conflict Zones Part 2: with Nita Yawanarajah, Deputy Director at Oxford Process; Enda Young, Managing Director of Mediation NI and Pat Hynes, Programme Manager Political Dialogue & Legacy, Glencree Centre for Peace & Reconciliation.
The MII would like to thank Enda Young from Mediation NI for bringing keynote speaker Cathy Ashton to the conference and for MNI’s involvement in our sessions on The Role of Mediators in Conflict Zones.

* Improving Your Mediation Practice and Skills: Up to 14 different sessions for members to choose from, such as Selling Mediation Skills, Website and Member Profile, and Mentoring and Supervision.

*Using Humour to Maximise Mediation with Alan Lyons, chartered psychologist and Managing Partner of Kinch Lyons

The psychology of humour and brain research shows that we can take things so seriously that we miss things. Connecting with humour effectively enables you to manage your emotions for better mediation. Obviously, hurtful humour is no laughing matter but there are different humour styles, so which one is best to use in mediation? And is it possible to develop a humour workout that brings joy and levity to your mediation practice?   

* The MII TED Talk Club – Live and (Not) Dangerous: Instead of watching a video of a TED Talk, Nita Yawanarajah will return to discuss a subject of her choice, which will be analysed by our panel for its relevance to mediators and mediation.

* Psychologically Informed Mediation: Studies in Conflict and Resolution: with renowned author Monica Hanaway, who is an accredited UKCP psychotherapist (1994), accredited mediator, clinical supervisor, executive and leadership coach, trainer and consultant.

* Self Care Practice Among Mediators

Dr Jay Miller is Dean of the College of Social Work at the University of Kentucky.
Dr Amanda Dishon Brown is a clinical faculty member and the Master of Social Work Program Director in the College of Social Work at the University of Kentucky. Together they present findings from previous research conducted in collaboration with the MII, specifically, myths and misperceptions of self-care and why this is critical in the work of mediators; real-world results of their research with the MII to date; and pragmatic strategies that you can use to support your work.

* Risk Assessments for Mediators: with Dorcas Crawford, former solicitor and founder of The Better Way

* Keeping the EI in AI: Mediators v Machine: how will our panel’s views compare LIVE with those of ‘ChatBob’ (Bob Cree-Hay, MII Council Member working with ChatGPT on screen)?

VISIT BELFAST

While you are in Belfast why not take advantage of its attractions. Belfast is famous for its hospitality and friendly warm welcome. To help you make the most of your stay, Visit Belfast has put together a selection of exclusive offers and discounts for conference delegates attending events in the city.

Click here to view the current offers. Please note, the offers and discounts are valid from 1st July 2024 – 31st December 2024 (unless otherwise stated)

Full Conference Details with options for travel and accommodation and the booking link