Power, individuals and world events

The 3rd presentation on Saturday at the UNISON International Seminar 2012 was by trainer Dave Hampson (left) chaired by Paul Gover NEC. Dave has worked for a number of BOND-affiliated aid agencies such as Christian Aid, Oxfam and VSO as an evaluator and human rights advocate. He is also a security risk consultant and advises organisations who work in the developing world on the risk of kidnapping!

This was an icebreaker session and light hearted look “at what power means to individuals and...what that means in respect of world events”. I won’t reveal what happened since it will spoil it if you ever attend a similar training. It was a relatively “physical” activity and aimed I think at NGO workers rather than trade unionists but it did make me think about the advantages that I have had in life as a white, British born, able bodied, university educated male.

Dave also reminded us of this saying by Margaret Mead "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has".
At the end International Officer Polly Jones (right of picture), briefed us on how to apply to UNISON for support from the UNISON Development Fund (UIDF).