Bridging Worlds of Belonging: the gift of mindfulness in uncertain times

​

In a realm of increased polarisation and fear, we are reminded of Thich Naht Hanh's ‘interbeing' ~ that we belong to one another, to the earth, to the more-than-human world, and the cosmos. In the spirit of mindfulness as remembering, this discussion serves to invoke our mycelial nature. It calls in truth telling at a time when exquisite listening helps us loosen our grip on ‘my way’, and invites in collective leadership. It asks how mindfulness can help us expand beyond the confines of conditioned limitations into the vastness of cosmic consciousness, and whether we are indeed world makers or only passengers living abandoned lives.

​

​

cathy-mae karelse hails from South Africa, with strong cosmic roots. A scholar-practitioner with a PhD in Religions and Philosophy from SOAS University of London, she is a changemaker focused on equity, belonging and liberation.

​

Her deep systems change work composts and decentres underlying social norms and narratives that keep institutionalised and systemic discrimination in place, opening hearts to freedom. cathy-mae is the Climate Youth Resilience Global Lead and collaborates on various policy, change and peace programs. As author of Disrupting White Mindfulness: Race and Racism in the Wellbeing Industry, she foregrounds global South, Indigenous, and queer knowledges in worldmaking.

​

Born on International Star Wars Day, cathy-mae draws inspiration from The Force and sci-magic.