Clark Plexico, NDI Resident Director in Uzbekistan, describes the importance of being able to lead and communicate across cultures in the 21st century -- and the pitfalls when signals are misinterpreted. Navigating the dangers requires both self-awareness and a fund of international knowledge.
Culture alert! Sometimes "yes" means "no." Sometimes "we must meet" means "go away." And sometimes "that's interesting" means "that's the worst idea I have ever heard."
Cross-cultural communication in action: Susan and Randi.
A cultural conundrum for Mohannad. Should he (a) shake Meade's hand, (b) ignore Meade's hand, or (c) pass him a cookie?
The groups are tasked with designing an exhibition booth illustrating "Cultural Diversity in the Middle East as a Strength." Salma and Randi are rehearsing Arab greeting rituals. (Or, conceivably, they are seeking inspiration through tai chi.)
The exhibition booth put together by Peter's group highlighted the common ceremonies, hospitality, food and language of the Arab world.
Basma's group took its inspiration from the history of Arab seafarers (like the great medieval navigator Ahmad ibn Majid), traders, explorers and pearl-divers. It planned a booth in the shape of a boat.
The third' group's slogan was that the Middle Eastern region was diverse yet unified: "Same but different."
Meanwhile Clark's observers have been quietly watching and assessing the strengths and weaknesses in the groups members' cooperation. They make their report in plenary session. An indignant murmur rises from the audience: !أمن الدولة -- Amn Al-Dawla! Secret police!
Bill Starnes speaks on dealing with interpersonal conflict. He discusses skills needed to hold others accountable for missed expectations, broken promises, and generally bad behavior.
After a long day indoors, the sun and warm breezes beckon. Mustafa, Rita and Dania lead the way.
Tom Scardino enjoys the stroll with Gloria...
...while Abdullah and Rateb seem to be busy plotting lucrative maneuvers in the field of high global finance.
A hale and hearty Dan looks like he is leading the MELA baseball team onto the sports pitch...
... with Tory to cheer them on!
Breakout groups reconvene to examine interpersonal conflicts experienced by individual members in their organizations or communities, and offer feedback. Whether spread out in the hotel lobby...
... ensconced in their usual meeting room...
...by the beach....
... or wandering beneath a dark sky, seeking out pole stars to steer through life's journey, they will always have their MELA friends to help them navigate: scores of Ahmad ibn Majids to provide encouragement and orientation, speeding them on to a purposeful destination.
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