Why strong facilitation communities matter:
and how we keep them healthy
‘Two facilitators walk into a conversation…. and start building community’
Two people who’ve actively worked to build communities of practice… conversations dedicated to helping facilitators grow, whether that facilitator be one’s self, or others! — that’s the moment in this photo.
It’s a happy reminder that the friendship and support you gain in your profession can give you a larger purpose: not just developing your own skills, but helping others to achieve bigger things too.
This photo reminds me that facilitation is bigger than any one meeting, project, or community. It’s about building networks that cross boundaries, connect people, and strengthen our collective ability to make good things happen.
“One of the best places I’ve seen that spirit in action is at the IAF Conference - a hub for ideas, inspiration, and the joy of seeing the facilitation world gather in one place”
The International Association of Facilitators (IAF) calls facilitation “a way to use group process to achieve results everyone can own.” And when we connect across networks, we multiply that impact.
Some of my most valuable lessons have come from global connections — like hearing Adam Kahane speak about transformative scenarios, or exploring conflict resolution insights with Suzanne Ghais. Encounters like these are more than moments; they’re sparks that ignite new ideas.
‘When I spoke with Suzanne, she shared her perspective on the vital role the IAF plays in nurturing the facilitation community, worldwide’
“There’s no better ‘PR’ than a job well done. The International Association of Facilitators officially has the job of building the profession, and they do a really good job at it.”
Equally powerful are the local networks. Regional facilitator networks are investing in better ways to connect their members — one of which I am a proud member of, the Australasian Facilitators Network, has, for example, just launched a platform that makes it easier for facilitators to share, learn, and grow together. I know several forward-thinking organisations who are building their own internal facilitation capability, recognising that strong internal networks help the whole system thrive.
‘In Canberra, I’ve seen that same commitment to connection and growth occur, whether it’s at a Conference for facilitators…’
“…or over a glass of wine after an IAF chapter event.”
Healthy facilitation communities don’t just happen. They’re nurtured, supported, and hosted in places that give them room to reach across boundaries.
“Engaging diverse perspectives in real time - facilitation at its collaborative best”
Where a facilitation community is hosted matters — the best outcomes come when it sits within an area whose mission is to promote strong facilitation practice for the whole system, not just their own community.
💡 Quick Self-Check for Your Networks:
Does it welcome members from beyond your immediate circle?
Is it connected to other networks, not isolated?
Is its host committed to whole-of-system improvement?
Are new members able to find ways to contribute quickly?
‘Facilitation is ultimately about connection, learning, and collective growth.’
If you’re a facilitator, there’s no shortage of places to connect:
Check out the IAF conference scheduled for October 2026 in Geelong, Victoria. I’ll be there, as there’s always something to learn and someone new to meet.
Connect with your regional facilitator’s network (Australiasian Facilitators Network (AFN), if you are in Australia, New Zealand / Aotearoa, .
If you work in government or a large organisation, think about how internal facilitation capability is nurtured.
I’m grateful to the networks I’m part of — those who invest in facilitation and care for it as a practice. And I’m thankful to the people who lead with generosity!
Because at the end of the day, it’s about people — connected, learning, and helping each other grow.
