We need more collective problem-solving

Mycelium networks can be seen in the background of this graphic. Creative Commons.

Recently I’ve been learning that trees talk to each other through their interconnected roots and might even share minerals and resources. Side-note also maybe plants can see?

Also, that under the earth there is a vast network of mycellum or fungal threads. They often thrive in places where there is decay such as rotting tree trunks, showing us the birth/death/re-birth cycle spoken about at length in ‘Women Who Run With Wolves’ by Clarissa Pinkola Estés.

Supposedly “a single spore can develop into a mycelium”. All us humans see are a sprinkling of mushrooms pushing through the moss, we don’t see the spores dancing in the air off to start a revolution underground.

***

‘A problem shared is a problem halved’ was the name of a small event I ran Autumn/Winter 2018 as part of Project Zanana 1.0.

It came out of the fact that during the first panel talk and event in March 2018, the Q&A portion of the evening became a site of joyous discussion, inspiration and sharing but also a lot of “how do i? what should i? why?…”. People turned up for a good time but also rolled up with questions. Things on their mind. Problems. And my folks always say “better out than in”, “better to ask for help”. An individual problem shared with others, is a problem held in the hands of a collective.

It feels timely to bring ‘A problem shared is a problem halved’ back but now in a slightly different format. Since developing my practice as a coach, I’ve gone on to train in a model called Action Learning.

What is Action Learning?

As a group, we share problems and develop collective learning and skills within a safe environment. Action Learning allows participants to expand their thinking, be critical friends and work collaboratively. It can deepen reflective and listening skills, and contribute to postive individul and collective future worldbuilding.

Launching in May 2024

Starting in May 2024, Project Zanana will host a free monthly “A Problem Shared, Is a Problem Halved” Action Learning Session for the BPOC creatives and artsworker community in the UK.

• 6-7pm, Last Tuesday of the month

• Online via Google Hangouts

• Free, but ticketed (limited places)

• Sessions will be hosted by me, Veronique AA Lapeyre

• No previous knowledge of Action Learning is needed, Veronique will run a short intro/refresher at the begining of the session

Please note that these sessions are closed door Project Zanana events, so they are specifcally for those who identify as Black, Asian, Mixed Heritage and People of Colour. See Ethos.

Any questions please email Veronique at zanana@pero.world.

📢 Sign-up to the newsletter to be the first to hear when booking opens.