Social safety dialogue series kicks off

How do we talk about the things that feel hard to speak about? How do we stay open to different perspectives, even when we don’t agree? How do we create an environment where everyone feels they matter? We believe that one of the most powerful tools we have is dialogue. Real, human, open-hearted dialogue. 

As part of the university’s commitment to social safety, we’re inviting students and staff to join a series of monthly dialogues. Spaces where we slow down, reflect, and talk honestly about what it means to feel safe, respected, and part of a community. We all carry moments when we’ve felt unsafe, unheard, or unsure how to speak up. Real dialogue is not just about talking - it’s a practice! That’s why these sessions invite you to learn by doing: using simple yet powerful dialogic tools and methods to (1) practice having better conversations, (2) experience meaningful connection, and (3) help create a lasting culture of social safety through the act of participating. We will be practicing using various tools and methods from the Art of Participatory Leadership. 

We realise that true safety is complex and cannot be guaranteed. What feels safe for one may not for another. That’s why these dialogues are not about promising a “safe space,” but about practicing how we co-create ‘safer’ spaces where we aim for trust, respect, and shared care.

We’ll begin on Thursday 19 June with a Walk & Talk session. The session starts at 11:00 AM and lasts until about 12:30 PM, and is for students and staff of the UG. Location: Academy building top of the stairs. This informal walking dialogue is designed to connect us as people, across roles, backgrounds, and perspectives.

Walk along, talk along: What Does Social Safety Mean to You (and to Me)?

What makes you feel welcome, heard, or at ease? How do you notice when others are struggling—or when something is unsaid? What helps you speak up, and what holds you back?

During this Walk & Talk, we will connect in pairs and be invited to explore questions like these. You will explore your own perspective, listen to another's and build shared understanding. This is a space where it’s okay to ask questions, name discomfort, or simply be curious. The dialogue will be held in English.

Join the conversation
Thursday 19 June 2025 | 11:00 - 12:30
Academy building top of the stairs
Register now
As there is a maximum of 20 spaces, advance registration is required. More information will be shared a few days prior to the event with registered participants.

Upcoming Sessions in the Series

All sessions are open to both students and staff. Come to one or all, whatever feels right for you.

• 2 July | Story Tell & Talk: What remains unspoken in our teams, our university, our daily work-life? Share & listen to stories about silence, courage, and sharing what truly matters.

• 23 September | Watch & Talk: What is a Safe Space – and for Whom? Watch a thought-provoking video together and discuss how safety shows up (or doesn’t) across different lived experiences.

• 4 November | Story Tell & Talk: From Silos to Shared Spaces.
  Share and listen to personal stories that reveal how identity, structure, and voice shape our experience of safety. Power, Belonging & the Meaning of Safety.

• 27 November | Do & Talk: Between Generations and Cultures: How Do We Bridge Difference? Engage in a hands-on creative activity while talking about connection across generational and cultural lines.

Why join?

• Share your experiences in a brave, welcoming space
• Hear how others live and work within the university
• Help shape a culture of openness & belonging
• Contribute your voice towards shaping policies that impact us all

Every voice counts. Including yours. Whether you have much or little to say, an experience to share or just want to listen, you are welcome. Together, we move toward an environment where everyone can be themselves and everyone's talent can flourish within the UG.

A growing conversation

These dialogues are part of RUG’s Social Safety Programme, which centres openness, trust, and mutual respect. “By creating spaces for honest conversation,” says Programme Manager Anne-Marie Petter, “we build a community where people feel seen, supported, and safe to be themselves.”

Together, we create a university where everyone can grow and thrive.