Belonging and Intercultural Competency Retreat with Hong Kong International School (HKIS)
I recently had the privilege of facilitating a two-day Belonging retreat at Hong Kong International School. It was a dynamic gathering that convened approximately 30 dedicated participants--including senior administrators, board members, high school students, teachers, counselors, human resources staff and the Diversity Committee-- to reframe conventional United States framings of diversity in a way that is both meaningful and actionable within the context of an American school situated in Hong Kong.
Through deep inquiry and open dialogue, we explored current international school trends and best practices, interrogated notions of diversity, engaged with the research around belonging and belonging uncertainty, psychological safety, child protection, and international school belonging survey trends.
We also dedicated time to aligning on the notion that all members of the community have inherent value and worth (dignity) and that we all have a responsibility to acknowledge this dignity (respect).
On Day 2, participants engaged in personal intercultural competency work, cultivating common understandings of identity, and exploring ways in which we have all constructed notions of self, and how this iterative notion informs perception of and interaction with others. The group also considered how the cultural context of Hong Kong, a high-context and collectivist culture, must be respected and integrated into the strategic framing and implementation of these efforts.
At the end of the second day, the group engaged in a strategic SWOT analysis to identity provisional Belonging Priorities for the 2024-25 academic year to to foster a culture of dignity and respect, ultimately striving to create a sustainable learning environment where every member of the community can thrive.
I am eagerly looking forward to returning in October to continue this critical work and build upon the strong foundation we established. Many thanks to everyone involved for your dedication and engagement!