Insights from Leading Mindfulness Organisations on How to Increase Inclusion

 

What does inclusion look like in practice? This panel brings together Stephanie Unthank-Latter (BAMBA) on culture and values as drivers of change, Paula Watson (YARDO) on ethical allyship to address economic exclusion and avoid the pitfalls of extractive partnerships, and Uz Afzal (Mindfulness Network for People of Colour, Teacher, Author) on creative, trauma-sensitive approaches for marginalised groups. Discussed within a framework of Context, Community, and Cushion: Context - Field perspective (BAMBA), Community - Convener perspective (YARDO), and Cushion - Practitioner perspective (MNPC). 

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Paula Watson FRSA is a humanistic psychotherapist and founder of YARDO Community, a non-profit company offering inclusive counselling and mindfulness-based programmes, in collaboration with grassroots leaders in West London. Her approach weaves evidence-based practice, Buddhist ethics and ethical allyship into radically accessible, community initiatives.

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A former Trustee of The Mindfulness Network, Paula’s 30-year journey began in 1990s Brixton, where she practised meditation within an arts and eco-activist collective called CoolTan. She went on to manage a multicultural media training centre for marginalised youth; work recognised through the award of a NESTA Fellowship. In 2001 she authored the television industry report Pitch Black – from the margin to the mainstream and helped develop Channel 4’s pioneering Diversity Database.

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Today, Paula is a member of her local NHS Mental Health Integrated Neighbourhood Team, championing mindfulness-based support for grassroots communities and mental health patients. She hosts the Adventures in Community Mindfulness podcast and is soon to launch ‘YARDO Pro’ - a CPD pathway supporting mindfulness teachers to build financial sustainability while expanding access to mindfulness.

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She is an active member of her local community and currently serves on the Advisory Board of Do It Now Now (DiNN), supporting innovation in Black-led, social impact work.

www.yardo.co.uk | [Adventures in Community Mindfulness Podcast]