Building Bridges: Engaging Activities for Enhancing Cultural Agility

Speaker: Ridha Mejri (University of applied sciences Worms, Germany)

Abstract

This workshop represents an innovative approach to developing cultural agility through interactive and engaging methodologies. This workshop aims to equip participants with essential skills for navigating complex cross-cultural environments by fostering empathy, understanding and effective communication across diverse contexts.

Workshop Objectives:
• Develop participants’ capacity for cultural sensitivity
• Enhance interpersonal communication skills
• Create opportunities for meaningful cross-cultural dialogue
• Provide practical strategies for bridging cultural differences
• Reflecting on one´s unconscious biases

Key Methodological Approaches:
The workshop will employ a dynamic range of didactic methods designed to create immersive learning experiences. Participants will engage in structured activities that challenge preconceived notions, encourage perspective-taking and promote mutual understanding. Interactive exercises will be carefully crafted to simulate real-world intercultural scenarios, allowing individuals to practice and refine their cultural navigation skills in a supportive environment.

Expected Outcomes:
By the conclusion of the workshop, participants will have:
• Increased awareness of cultural nuances
• Enhanced emotional intelligence
• Improved ability to communicate effectively across cultural boundaries
• Developed a toolkit for resolving potential cross-cultural misunderstandings
• Become more conscious about their unconscious biases
• Developed practical strategies to mitigate their biases

The workshop represents a transformative learning experience that goes beyond traditional cultural competence training. By creating a safe, engaging space for exploration and dialogue, it empowers individuals to become more adaptable, empathetic and skilled communicators in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.

Bio

Ridha Mejri grew up in a bilingual and bicultural environment, speaking Arabic and French. He has lived, studied, and worked in several countries, making him well-acquainted with the customs, behaviors, and business etiquette of the Arab world, as well as Germany, where he has resided for over 20 years. This background has provided him with a strong foundation in intercultural expertise.

He holds a master’s degree in Applied Linguistics from Heidelberg University and a TEFL certificate from the University of East Anglia in Norwich. He is currently a lecturer in Business Communication and Intercultural Management at Worms University of Applied Sciences in Germany.

With extensive experience as an in-company trainer and consultant, he conducts seminars and workshops for top executives and expatriates seeking to enhance their intercultural skills and management competence. He speaks Arabic, English, French, German, and Italian.

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