Momentum: Leadership Workshop for University Students – Building Bridges, the art of dialogue
This year’s Momentum Workshop – Building Bridges brought together 21 young women for a weekend dedicated to learning how to foster meaningful dialogue, strengthen relationships, and live out their faith with conviction and charity. Throughout the weekend, participants explored what it means to build bridges between individuals with different perspectives, recognizing that true dialogue requires both clarity in one’s own beliefs and a genuine willingness to listen to others. The theme challenged us to move beyond simply avoiding conflict and instead learn how to engage thoughtfully and respectfully with those around us.
A highlight of the workshop was our lineup of inspiring and amazing speakers. Our keynote speaker, Lauri Ann Fenlon, a BC judge, shared practical wisdom on how to approach conversations with people who hold opposing views. Drawing from both her professional and personal experiences, she emphasized the importance of listening well, seeking understanding before agreement, and maintaining respect even in disagreement. Our second speaker, Susana Christiansen, PhD (Philosophy), led a thought-provoking session on politics, morality, and faith, encouraging participants to reflect on where religious convictions intersect with public life and where the boundaries between the two should remain distinct. Later, Mia Jose taught hands-on skills focused on “building bridges at home,” demonstrating practical tasks such as changing a tire and basic household maintenance, reminding us that service and competence are also ways of caring for those around us.
This workshop was especially meaningful for me because it was my first time helping organize and lead an event of this scale. I was both surprised and encouraged by the enthusiasm and engagement of the participants. Whether during the keynote presentations, small-group discussions, workshops, or debates, the girls consistently contributed thoughtful questions and insights. Watching everyone actively participate reinforced the idea that building bridges is a skill that can be learned and practiced. By the end of the weekend, it was clear that we had all grown in our ability to communicate with clarity, listen with empathy, and approach difficult conversations with greater confidence and charity. These are skills that will continue to help us build stronger bridges in our families, friendships, communities, and future vocations.
Leonor Farinha, 1st year BA at UBC
