with Dr. Emily Meadows
Saturday, November 22
Day 1 will focus on the what and why of gender-based safety and belonging in schools, using research-backed lenses, and honoring a range of personal experiences. You will take away foundational knowledge about gender development, vocabulary and key concepts, as well as a framework for considering decision-making in complex situations.
Sunday, November 23
Day 2 will guide you in developing an individualized gender-based safety and belonging commitment plan, specific to your role, context, and priorities within international education. You will be provided with a menu of relevant options from which to choose and personalize to your own practice.
Gender is one of the most dynamic and sensitive cultural issues facing society today, nowhere more visibly than in schools. From students seeking recognition of their gender identity and pronouns to the growing influence of online ideologies like the ‘manosphere’ on young men, students, their families, and educators alike are navigating complex and often polarized terrain. Many schools are unsure how to respond in ways that are both supportive and constructive.
Moreover, debates around gender have often been exploited to create an "us versus them" mentality that fractures school communities. Yet the true goal is shared: to foster school environments where everyone feels safe, heard, and valued.
This two-day workshop is designed for international schools to build collective capacity around gender-related protective factors in school communities. Bringing together educators across roles and institutions, the workshop aims to strengthen understanding, share practical strategies, and promote a regional network grounded in gender-based safety and belonging for all.
This workshop is aimed at international school educators in East Asia.
Teams from the same school are encouraged to attend together.
The content of the workshop is designed to be applicable for a range of roles within international education, such as Senior Leadership, Counselors, Teachers, School Nurses, Curriculum Directors, Admissions Officers, Human Resources, and Safeguarding Leads.
We welcome those just getting started in gender-based belonging work, as well as those with some prior experience.
Develop a deeper understanding of key concepts, terminology, and evolving conversations related to gender.
Explore current research and best practices that promote gender-based safety and belonging in school settings.
Shed light on the recent trend of anti-feminism, toxic masculinity, and other ideologies promoted by the ‘manosphere’ online.
Practice actionable tools to extend inclusive practices from individual awareness to school-wide implementation.
Situate gender equity within the broader context of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives.
Build confidence in effectively supporting LGBTQ+ students and other gender-diverse members of the school community.
Strengthen connections with fellow international educators in East Asia committed to fostering gender-inclusive environments.
Create a personalized commitment plan to guide continued growth and implementation beyond the workshop.
As a bonus gift, you will take home a meaningful, customized keepsake—a tangible reminder of our shared learning and future intentions.