CAMERON FRIEND

They grew up in Seattle, Washington, and have always felt at home where there are mountains and water nearby.

They went to a university whose ethos revolved almost entirely around dialogue and they are passionate about the vital and healing importance of empathy, listening and discussing. They have experience in a variety of administrative roles as well as a broad range of other professional contexts.

They are a jack-of-all-trades whose lived experiences as a queer, disabled, neurodivergent person have fostered in them an aptitude for figuring things out and understanding the bigger picture. Cameron is thrilled to be working with the Centre in support of the Executive Director and, thus, the Centre at large.

What is your role at the Centre for Dialogue?

I am the Executive Assistant who supports the logistical needs of the Executive Director, be they related to scheduling, events planning, systematizing or crafts to make a fun meeting activity.

What does dialogue mean to you?

Dialogue is the foundation of growth. There is so much power in coming together to listen, and listening to both our own and others’ perspectives allows space for expansion of ideas and possibilities. Dialogue is a constant practice on both an individual and institutional level, and when approaching challenges and sticking points with curiosity and connection, we are able to build trust and facilitate real and meaningful growth

What is a common assumption you'd like to de-mistify?

I’d like to demystify the idea that dialogue is a specialized or exclusive tool. Dialogue can and should be used constantly and in basically every type of relationship and dynamic. I think there’s a misconception that dialogue is something specifically academic or organizational. In reality, it is a tool that can allow for connection, evolution and expansion in hugely various contexts. It is a skill that requires practice but that practice can begin even within yourself.