October 15, 2023
Portia Kambasha.
On the 23rd of September, Anoshe Therapies hosted a transformative event called "Strong Black Woman" at the Cotton Mills in Footscray, Melbourne. The event began at 11 am and finished at 3pm. Participants engaged in a powerful dialogue about the mental health consequences of the "Strong Black Woman" archetype. Through a series of thought-provoking activities and open discussions, this event brought participants together to challenge stereotypes, celebrate accomplishments, and foster meaningful connections.
Setting the stage for connection.
The day began with a warm and welcoming atmosphere as guests arrived and admired personalised name tags. This simple gesture set the tone for a day of openness and inclusivity, allowing everyone to feel seen and valued from the start. Curiosity was then diverted to the cards displayed with icebreaker questions.
PERSONALISED EXPERIENCE BY USE OF PERSONALISED NAME TAGS.
ICEBREAKER QUESTIONS.
Fostering trust and understanding: Fear in a box.
Following icebreakers, a box labelled “fear in a box ” was passed around. Participants guessed it could have been anything from a spider to a daring challenge.
In reality, in the "Fear in a Box" activity, participants anonymously wrote down their deepest fears (those they were comfortable sharing) on cards, which were then shuffled and redistributed. Each person took turns reading aloud someone else's fear and sharing their understanding of that person’s fear. The safe and respectful environment of the event encouraged every member to open, fostering trust and shared vulnerability.
Participants reflected that they were amazed at how many fears they shared, and were encouraged to think how often they feel safe enough to share them, when they navigate the world as Black women, because of the expectations that they are “strong", it denies their vulnerability.
Nourishing both appetites and bonds.
After the first activity, participants enjoyed a delicious and diverse lunch spread, fostering opportunities for networking and casual conversations. Food has a unique way of bringing people together, and this break allowed attendees to recharge and bond over shared meals.
Empowering personal narratives: "Strength Spotting ".
The next game, strength spotting, encouraged each attendee to share a personal story of an accomplishment they were proud of. As they spoke, fellow participants took notes and wrote down strength-based feedback on cards, offering words of encouragement and affirmation. This exercise not only boosted confidence, but also highlighted the fact that the participants rarely offered themselves words of affirmation. Resilience and strength was observed within each individual, and allowed the narrator to genuinely embrace pride, a feeling they seldom permitted themselves to acknowledge.
Challenging self-doubt and insecurities .
"Crack Some Nuts"and kill some ants was the next activity, of which the title certainly grabbed some attention! Designed to address negative unconscious thoughts(nuts), and automatic negative thoughts(ants). Participants wrote down five phrases related to these thoughts, and were then challenged to make a mental note of how often they creep into their minds. In debunking the strong Black woman narrative, they were also encouraged to see how putting the needs of everyone before their own in being “strong” can lead to emotional suppression, doubt, and insecurities. This exercise aimed to empower attendees to identify and combat self-doubt and negative self-talk, using observation, reframing and challenging.
Cupcakes and meaningful conversations: To conclude the afternoon, attendees enjoyed cupcakes while engaging in meaningful conversations around the challenges of the archetype. True sisterhood was forged as participants shared their experiences, fears, and aspirations. This part of the event emphasised the power of connection, understanding, and support within a marginalised community, often anticipated to embody resilience.
CONCLUSION.
In a world where racial prejudices and societal expectations can be particularly stifling for Black women, events like this serve as poignant reminders of the critical need for community, self-reflection, and mutual support. As participants departed from the Cotton Mills that day, they bore not only a deeper awareness of the mental health challenges uniquely faced by Black women but also the enduring bonds of sisterhood. These connections will serve as a source to uplift and empower Black women, as they navigate the hurdles of racism and other stereotypes in their daily lives. Anoshe Therapies' commitment to dismantling barriers and nurturing a supportive community stands as an inspiring testament to how collective strength can challenge the oppressive weight of racism and promote healing and personal growth.
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