Talking Circle
Talk Circle
We launched our Talking Circle on January 21, 2025, and it was very successful. The Talking Circle followed Indigenous-informed practice commonly used in Manitoba, creating a respectful and safe space where participants could share their lived and living experiences without interruption.
Participants sat in a circle, and a talking stick was used to guide the process. Only the person holding the talking stick spoke, while others listened respectfully. Once finished, the talking stick was passed to the person on the left.
We also included participants who joined virtually. The facilitation alternated between one in-person participant and one online participant to ensure equity and inclusion for all voices.
Due to the success of the session, we will continue hosting the Talking Circle on the Fourth Wednesday of every month.
Mentors of Change Principles (Rules)
- Create a Safe and Respectful Space
This circle is built on respect. Discrimination, racism, or harmful language—spoken or implied—are not acceptable. Everyone deserves to feel safe, heard, and valued in this space. - Share from Your Lived and Living Experience
We speak from our own experiences. You are invited to share what you know, what you have learned, and what you are still figuring out. Your story may help someone else feel less alone or understand something in a new way. - Listen with Openness and Care
We listen to understand, not to judge or correct. We recognize that everyone comes with different knowledge, backgrounds, and comfort levels. Staying open and curious helps this circle work for all of us.
March 25, 2026 Talking Circle - Relationships
March 25 Talking Circle focused on relationships. This was our largest event of the year. We had catering from Acorn Family Place, which provided excellent sandwiches and a fruit platter. We also had coffee, pop, and a popcorn machine that was lent to us by the Winnipeg Manitoba Coalition.
We had participants join via Zoom from across the provinces. The discussion covered many aspects of relationships, including what relationships look like, dating, and a wide range of topics connected to building and maintaining relationships.
The event was very well organized, and we received a strong number of completed surveys. Overall, this was a highly successful event.
February 18, 2026 Talking Circle topic: Taxes
We will share and talk about taxes. This is a timely opportunity to discuss our experiences with filing taxes in Manitoba, including what makes us nervous, what we find confusing, and what we are still learning.
We will talk about where Manitobans can file their taxes for free and discuss the Disability Tax Credit and related benefits through shared experiences.
By sharing our experiences, we can support one another, learn together, and help others find information or resources they may be looking for
January 21 2026 Talking Circle topic: Housing
On January 21, we talked about housing. We had participants from British Columbia, Ireland, and Winnipeg, as well as from across Manitoba, join the Talking Circle both in person and virtually.
We were fortunate to have an individual provide teachings on the Talking Circle, including how the process works. Tobacco was offered to the individual for the teachings. We provided water, coffee, and pizza, and participants completed surveys.
Participants shared their different views and their lived and living experiences related to housing. Some rent, while others live with family members.
What’s Included
Fourth Wednesday of the Month
The sessions take place on the fourth Wednesday of each month between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM.
Knowledge Keeper
Each session will include a Knowledge Keeper who will guide the Talking Circle through teachings and shared learning.
Virtually online
If you’re unable to attend in person, we will provide a Zoom link so you can join virtually through the internet.
In person
You are able to attend in person at New Directions Supported Independent Living, located on the second floor at 720 Broadway, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Not mandatory.
Attendance is not mandatory. You are welcome to attend when you can, and you do not need to attend every session. Please prioritize personal, work, and family responsibilities first.
Participation & Sharing Options
Sharing is optional. You are not required to speak during sessions. Listening and participating at your own pace is always welcome, and choosing not to share is respected.