Nontombi Naomi Tutu, one of the keynote speakers at this year’s NCCWSL, has dedicated her life to conflict resolution. I am eager to learn about her experiences with apartheid and reconciliation in South Africa. The years of the South African apartheid were one of the most violent times in human history. Growing up under apartheid, Tutu faced both racial and gender discrimination.
Naomi Tutu began her public-speaking career by talking about her experiences during apartheid with church, school, and community groups. While attending college, she designed innovative “Truth and Reconciliation” workshops to help people deal with conflicts in a responsive, step-by-step manner. Tutu also cofounded the organization Sister Sojourner with Rose Bator; together, they host retreats geared toward helping women in the United States and South Africa form connections.
Tutu says that using a peaceful approach to solving problems teaches future generations about handling conflicts in a rational manner. She strongly believes that understanding the past is important to understanding the present. To heal the wounds that have scarred societies, she says, people need to talk openly about the issues.
It’s rare to find someone like Naomi Tutu, who is working to ensure that communities protect and sustain the dignity of all people. The NCCWSL participants will have a great opportunity to hear her story and learn how good leaders can minimize conflict by recognizing diversity. Learn more about her and find other NCCWSL conference information on the NCCWSL website.
