Fostering Change for Social Transformation: Challenges and Opportunities of the World Cafe on St Helena

Samantha Phippard

doi:10.1921/gpwk20242204

Authors

Samantha Phippard University of Winchester https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3673-157X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1921/gpwk20242204

Keywords:

The World Cafe, Participatory Methods, Remote Communities, St Helena Island

Abstract

The World Café method has proven invaluable as a participatory tool in community development and, of growing potential within qualitative research. This article discusses its application with groups of children on St Helena Island. The project aimed to unlock children’s transformative potential, by understanding their lived experiences within creative methods of group engagement. In doing so, it aimed to support children in developing their dialogue about what mattered to them, situating new understandings and possibilities. The World Café method brought to light the complexities of social roles within contested spaces, unifying children in a dialogue for desired change. The findings showed children’s motivation to be heard, and transformative dialogue emerged, continuing through discussions and graphic recordings from the Café events. Although children’s diversity required careful support for inclusion, underscoring the need for supporting reflection alongside change talk to pursue social justice and elevate their societal positions to influence change

Author Biography

Samantha Phippard, University of Winchester

Samantha Phippard is a qualified Social Worker and Play Therapist who has worked in England and in several British Overseas Territories since 2014.

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