Family Handbook 2019-20

Forum for Change

The Forum for Change is a space for social innovation, local community involvement, global experiences and the transformation of student ideas into action. The programming in the Forum for Change is founded on a philosophy of building capacity within people through partnerships to broaden perspectives. Forum for Change staff do this by stimulating the thought process by using design thinking techniques for social innovation, exploring different perspectives and allowing students to explore the world as a way to discover their interests and then guiding these interests to effective action with impact. It is vital that students experience the world and apply their knowledge to their interactions with others. When students enter the Forum for Change, our conversations start with their ideas and passions. We assist students in figuring out where to start. Helping students with their ideas is the impetus for the Students Act Now program. The conversation continues as we incubate the ideas and coach students to determine the scope of their engagement and connections with others. We help students define what success means to them. We support them as they take the risk of trying something new. Inevitably, the process is not linear. It may involve the experience of failure, redefining goals and becoming more comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty. The Forum for Change staff help students develop the global knowledge and skills they need to be successful anytime, anywhere, with anyone. They do this by working collaboratively with faculty and staff to help connect students to the world outside of the classroom. Global Experience Program (GEP) When participating in the Global Experience Program (GEP), students are challenged to engage with people in different places. This is not service—it is not about fundraising, helping and giving. It is about partnering with others to achieve shared objectives. Those with whom we work know better than we do what they want and need in their lives. We learn by working together. The practice of effective impact is a whole-life continuum and a lifelong endeavour: at school, in communities and, eventually, at work. Many of the GEP programs are centred on community partnerships and are connected to our Old Girls, demonstrating to students their worldwide connections and the wide range of endeavours available to a Havergal Old Girl. Through local and international experiences, students will develop a belief in their own abilities and in their capabilities to learn, acquire new skills and adapt to new

Last Edited: August 20, 2019 Havergal College Family Handbook 2019–20

115