Spark Forum For Communication Professionals
Spark Forum: Supporting Thriving Communication Professionals
At the Centre for Strategic Communication Excellence, we are deeply committed to creating an environment where communication professionals not only survive but thrive.
It’s the reason we initiated our ground-breaking global study: The State of Mental Wellbeing in the Communication Profession.
To thrive means more than just survive or get by—it involves flourishing, prospering, and experiencing growth and success, both personally and professionally.
It encompasses a sense of wellbeing, resilience, and vitality, where individuals not only cope with challenges but also thrive despite them.
By uncovering the realities of wellbeing within our profession, we strive to not only raise awareness but also implement targeted strategies and initiatives to support the growth and success of communication professionals around the world.
Our mission is to ignite the spark within, providing communication professionals with the encouragement, support, and resources they need to discover their potential and pursue their aspirations.
So, join us for a thoughtful monthly discussion forum for, by and about communication professionals.
What you can expect:
❤️Engaging conversations: Connect with like-minded professionals who understand the demands of our profession.
❤️Expert insights: Gain valuable insights from wellbeing professionals who specialise in supporting communication experts.
❤️Strategies for balance: Learn practical strategies to balance the demands of your career with your wellbeing.
❤️Safe space: This is a judgment-free zone where you can share experiences and find solace in the company of peers.
Don’t miss this opportunity to prioritise your wellbeing and connect with a supportive community. RSVP today to secure your spot.
The forum is structured primarily as a dynamic, attendee-driven discussion. This means that while we do set a general agenda, the true value and direction of our conversations largely depend on the contributions and needs of those who join us. It’s a space where professionals can explore topics deeply and share insights that matter most to them. Therefore, the core of our focus is to remain flexible, allowing us to explore topics that emerge through our discussions.
Hosted by: Sia Papageorgiou FRSA, FCSCE, SCMP (passionate advocate for the wellbeing of communication professionals) and Julie Gillespie eMBA, MHFA (mental wellbeing consultant and Principal Master Instructor Mental Health First Aid).
Please note, in order to protect the privacy of those who attend, these sessions will not be recorded.
What Your Peers Have to Say
It was a great session; I really enjoyed the discussion and I wanted to thank you for having me!
I absolutely believe that communication professionals are the key to healing in our workplaces.
Each time I've sat down at my computer to begin the job hunt and applications, I get a queasy feeling in my stomach, coming from past work stress, high workload, crisis comms and an 'empty cup'. But today is a good reminder to prioritise wellbeing, work-life balance and good workplace culture for that next role.
Just a quick note to say thank you for today's session, it was exactly what I needed!
I wanted to let you know how much I've enjoyed the Spark forum, and I'm definitely planning to participate in 2025. It is such a wonderful (and cathartic) forum to meet seasoned professionals with a wealth of experience. It's always inspiring to hear emerging ideas and developments. I'm confident they will enable new generations of communicators to have even greater success.
- All Virtual, Events
I can’t recommend this forum enough! I’ve been regularly joining these sessions since they were launched. One idea that was raised which really resonated with me was asking people how they feel, not just what they’re doing. It sounds simple but let me illustrate this for you. Asking people how they’re going or what they’re doing often leads to a recital of a to-do list. From this you can decipher whether they are busy or not busy. Sometimes, the busiest people are the loneliest, driving their own bus. But asking someone how they’re feeling that day or week can lead to a more meaningful conversation. You could learn they’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, that they’re worried about their health or that of a family member, or they could be feeling isolated, alone, lonely. On the flipside, they might be loving life which is also incredibly valueable knowledge. A to-do list cannot tell you this. And while someone may not open up to you, they will remember that you cared enough to ask how they’re feeling.