On 25 September, WMS hosted our Pathways to Peace Showcase at the International Dispute Resolution Centre (IDRC) in London. It was a truly unforgettable evening, bringing together supporters, funders, volunteers and partners to celebrate the impact of our work in schools, families, workplaces and communities.
The highlight of the evening was a live mediation demonstration, brought to life by a cast of celebrity actors. Emotions ran high – there were accusations, tears, hugs, and even a plot twist as a family conflict unfolded on stage:
- Afolabi Alli played a 16-year-old refusing to go to school.
- Indra Ové and Clive Hayward portrayed his bickering parents.
- David Rintoul and Vivien Heilbron stepped into the roles of grandparents.
- The session was co-moderated by our Founder Patron, Stephen Ruttle KC, alongside our co-chair Sharon Crooks.
There was no script. No-one knew which way the conversation would go. The result was raw, emotional, and unforgettable.
The turning point came when the boy revealed he was being bullied, shifting the whole conversation and showing how mediation creates space for honesty, listening, and change.
Our funders and sponsors
Alongside the demonstration, guests also heard from our sponsors and funders:
- Linklaters, sharing the impact of our groundbreaking Reflect programme for secondary schools.
- Wimbledon Foundation, speaking about our innovative Peer Mediation programme for primary schools.
We’re incredibly grateful for their continued support and generosity, which help us bring this vital work to more people.
A special thank you also goes to those who donated raffle prizes, time, and funds to support our work. This includes our Friend of WMS, Alex Cooper, Sussex-based artist Maggie Smith who donated her beautiful print, and Catherine Lee, award-winning architectural stained-glass artist, who donated one of her glassworks.
Help us keep building pathways to peace
The Showcase was not just a celebration, but also a call to action. In today’s polarised world, we all need to learn how to listen, connect, and resolve differences peacefully. That’s what WMS exists to do – and we can only continue with your support.
We’re still raising funds to support our work in schools and communities. If you believe in the power of listening and connection, please consider making a donation today. Together, we can build more pathways to peace.
(L–R: Victoria Harris, Deputy Chief Executive of the Civil Mediation Council; Jenny Reid, WMS Service Manager; Katie Finch, WMS Trustee)
