Work With Me

I believe that we are most inspired for action, and most able to integrate our learning, when we are in groups of like-minded people who resonate with our challenges. That is why I offer workshops and trainings for teams and organisations, and an online Circle of Practice and retreats for individuals. These are brave spaces of joint learning, sharing truths and ideas, and deep connection and reflection.

If you are a humanitarian or development worker, human rights defender or activist looking for community support in an environment of courage and compassion, take a look at The Vulnerable Humanitarian Circle of Practice.

If you are a leader within the humanitarian and development sphere who is committed to finding healthier work routines that build resilience and also foster greater belonging and inclusivity among the work force, then have a look at the workshops and trainings I offer.

I also provide consultancy support to organisations committed to deeper learning around the wellbeing of their staff and developing strategies which respect diversity, equity and inclusion. I have an inquisitive, analytical mind (you need this for a PhD) which helps me to ask big questions that others may not consider or dare ask, and which helps me see the systems at play that cause individuals, groups and organisations to behave as they do.

Consultancy contracts have included staff wellbeing surveys, and studies into the wellbeing needs of human rights defenders across the globe. I have also designed and delivered bespoke workshops that provide brave spaces for leaders and staff to explore what building resilient and inclusive working cultures mean for them.

My clients have included Open Society Foundations, ONE Campaign, Global Communities, and CISP (the International Committee for the Development of Peoples).

Contact me if you are interested in hiring me as your consultant.

An Approach Informed by Cutting Edge Research

My workshops, trainings and book circle are grounded in over a decade of extensive research into mental health, wellbeing, and organisational culture within the humanitarian, development, and human rights sphere.

Drawing from doctoral studies conducted among diverse national and international staff in Kenya, I've identified common challenges professionals in this sector face.  These challenges include:

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Poor Work/Life Balance and Boundaries

Struggles with maintaining a healthy balance between work responsibilities and personal life, often exacerbated by blurred boundaries.

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Lack of Emotional Support

Feelings of isolation due to mental health often being a 'no-go' subject, and a dearth of emotional support mechanisms within the workplace, leading to heightened stress and burnout.

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Loss of Purpose

Diminished sense of purpose or fulfillment in work roles, at times due to conflicts in ethics or values, impacting motivation and overall wellbeing.

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Exclusion from Decision-Making Processes and Career Advancement Opportunities

Marginalisation from key decision-making avenues and limited pathways for career advancement, hindering professional growth and empowerment. People likely to feel particularly marginalised include national staff in the Global South, and people of colour in the Global North.

How We Can Forge a Path Forward

My research underscores that addressing the issues I've highlighted requires more than just organisational policies; it demands a cultural shift towards open dialogue, inclusivity, and shared leadership. When you work with me, you will be committing yourself to fostering this change, supporting both yourself and your colleagues in cultivating resilient, cohesive, and equitable work environments.

Through a multifaceted approach encompassing inner reflection, collective dialogue, and systemic reform, we can begin to dismantle the barriers to wellbeing and create environments where every individual can thrive. By integrating feminist principles into our practices, we acknowledge the significance of diversity and inclusion not only for success in fulfilling the humanitarian agenda, but also for the holistic wellbeing of all stakeholders.

Testimonials from Workshop Attendees

"Having worked in the international development sector herself, Gemma was acutely aware of the particular challenges and stresses we face in our day to day work. Her approach was interactive, as well as informative.

She talked us through some techniques and exercises but also gave us the floor to talk and listen to each other about our feelings, both positive and negative, during this challenging time.

I liked this balance. We've each come away with a better sense of how to look after ourselves at this time, and each other".

Emma Haegeman, Senior Consultant at Social Development Direct.

"You helped us express our feelings as a team and be able to process them and eventually, we ended up feeling so much better at the end of the sessions. It's so great to let go of all the negativity and pressure built up throughout the month and start fresh, and for that, I'm very thankful".

Amina, NGO worker in Lebanon.

Let's Talk

Book your clarity call today to explore how I can help you.