Santo Tripodi and Michael Stephens discuss Queer ecology, our community's relationship with nature and embracing the outdoors.
Enjoying nature is for everyone - or at least it should be. Most of us know the benefits of getting out in nature. The fresh air, movement and wonder. Yet as queer people, do we experience and see nature differently? Queer ecology examines this through the light of queer theory - urging us to look at the world through a nuanced lens, enlightened by various ideologies & theories and encourages us to embrace the fact that nature is queer! As more and more LGBTQ+ groups come together to get out there in nature through activities, this session explores the benefits of doing so, looks at why many queer people don’t and how nature is fundamentally queer.
Speakers:
Santo Tripodi is of Calabrian heritage and grew up in suburban Australia, facing the challenges of immigrant and queer identities. These experiences have strongly shaped their current research and work. As a PhD student in Positive Psychology, Santo studies how the emotion of ‘awe’ can change our understanding of wellbeing. They organise workshops, retreats, and talks focused on queer ecology, connecting with nature, and the intersectionality of mental health and wellbeing. Santo believes in a communal approach to rediscovering happiness and living well through storytelling, body awareness, connection, and emotional expression.
Michael Stephens is the founder of We Create Space. He is a Creative Director, Story-Teller and Community Builder. He loves to bring people together on a common mission and create magic. He spent over 10 years working for some of the world’s most respected British brands - including i-D Magazine, Vice Media, Liberty London, Ted Baker and Virgin Atlantic - but diverted from his original career path after overcoming a series of life-changing mental health challenges. He now works with leaders, communities and organisations to help promote the importance of prioritising self-care and personal-growth alongside professional development, predominantly within the lgbtq+ communities.
If you would like to discuss booking one of these speakers for your own session, please get in touch with us via email at hello@wecreatespace.co
While you're here...
Did you know we consult with Businesses, ERGs and Change-Leaders providing bespoke corporate solutions? Through consultancy we design shared learning experiences, produce DEI insights and craft bespoke content that support individuals with strengthening their roles as change-agents within their communities and organisations. Find out more here.
We also organise FREE community events throughout the year! We offer a variety of ways to get involved - both online and in person. This is a great way to network and learn more about others' experiences, through in-depth discussion on an array of topics. You can find out what events we have coming up here. New ones are added all the time, so make sure you sign up to our newsletter so you can stay up to date!
Comments