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

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.

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.

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Take Our AI in Public Relations and Communication Survey

The Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management has partnered with the Centre for Strategic Communication Excellence (CSCE) and Reputation Lighthouse — on a Responsible AI survey to understand the AI evolution better as it pertains to the Public Relations and Communication profession.  

We want to uncover how professionals address ethical and responsible AI and benchmark professional insights and influence. This information will be used to prepare for the Global Alliance AI Symposium in Venice in May in conjunction with the Global Alliance’s Annual Meeting and European Regional Council Meeting. Based on this survey data and the AI Symposium, we will update the Global Alliance’s Guiding Principles for Ethical and Responsible AI and connect the dots to the Global Alliance’s Responsible Communication Movement. So, this is your opportunity to have a voice in this critical advocacy for our profession. 

Your feedback is invaluable. By participating, you are contributing to research that will help define the next chapter of excellence in strategic communication.

Mastering Media Interviews: Essential Skills for Effective Spokespeople - Virtual Course

28 March, 9:00 AM AEDT

In this exclusive two-hour workshop, world-renowned media trainer Jo Detavernier SCMP, APR, will provide media spokespeople with the essential tools to handle interviews with skill and confidence. Whether you’re preparing for a TV appearance, a podcast interview, or an in-depth print feature, Jo will guide you through proven techniques to communicate clearly and steer conversations toward your objectives. Tailored to help you deliver compelling messages across various media channels, this session ensures you’re well-prepared for any interview scenario.

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