Connecting Cultures, Building Bridges, Changing Lives

The IDEAS forum is designed to bring together individuals from diverse cultural, ethnic, and social backgrounds to engage in open and constructive discussions. Our focus is on fostering empathy, promoting appreciation for diverse perspectives, and creating synergy through the exchange of ideas and experiences on a wide range of topics.

Aims

• Foster Empathy: Encourage participants to develop a deeper understanding of, and empathy for, the perspectives, beliefs, and practices of people from different cultural backgrounds.
• Promote Appreciation: Cultivate a sense of appreciation and respect for the diverse range of cultural experiences and contributions within the IDEAS community.
• Facilitate Dialogue: Provide a safe and inclusive space for open, honest, and respectful conversations on various topics, enabling participants to learn from one another and expand their horizons.
• Create Synergy: Encourage collaboration and the pooling of ideas, knowledge, and resources among participants, fostering innovative solutions to address local challenges and enriching the lives of individuals and communities.
• Empower Participants: Offer opportunities for personal and professional growth by connecting individuals with peers, mentors, and experts from different backgrounds, empowering them to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
• Support Partnership Funding Applications: Encourage and facilitate collaborations among members to apply for joint funding opportunities, enabling the development and implementation of innovative intercultural projects that address pressing local issues.

“I truly believe that when we come together, embracing our differences and engaging in open dialogue, we create an extraordinary tapestry of understanding that bridges cultures and empowers us to build a more compassionate and harmonious world.”

Bharat “Bret” Shah, Chief Gratitude Officer, Stoke Your Gratitude C.I.C.

Intercultural Dialogues, Empathy, Appreciation, and Synergy (IDEAS) is funded by a grant for VAST Community Health Champions.