7 Iris street
Kfar Vradim
Israel
- International/Cultural relations
Beyond Words aims to empower, inspire, educate and train Arab and Jewish women to promote equality, social justice, coexistence and peace building in Israel.
We believe that women's role is crucial in reaching this goal not only because they are the mothers and main caregivers and thus hold a key role in shaping the next generation; but also because of their ability to work together, connect from the heart, nurture, inspire and unite to create a change.
Beyond Words developed a unique and an innovative multi-disciplinary model that includes both verbal and nonverbal components. The approach teaches skills that help increase emotional awareness, communication and listening skills. In a recent research study (AJDT, June 2009 – available upon request) the Beyond Words approach has been shown as effective both in the empowerment of women and in increasing understanding and empathy towards the “other”.
The organization offers trainings based on its approach, designed to empower women, undermine prejudices and transform past traumas with the purpose of creating a new and peaceful reality. Beyond Words has offered courses for Arab and Jewish early childhood educators, community leaders, social workers, teachers, mothers, and students throughout Northern Israel. We also offer facilitators’ training course– designed to train more facilitators who will be able to lead workshops and trainings in the future. One of our most recent projects involves both Israeli and Palestinian women facilitators in an effort to create healing partnerships across borders.