Congress, a forum to tell stories

An interview with the outgoing Vice president of WACC, Piet Halma, during WACC’s Officers meeting held in Toronto June 26-28, 2008.

By Teresia Mutuku, Communications Officer and Web Manager, WACC

Q: How was your experience as Vice president for WACC over the last 6 years?

During this period I have met many interesting people from around the world with whom I share common issues of communications. This is a key strength of WACC; bringing communicators from different backgrounds together, all working for social justice. WACC provides space for professional communicators to connect, to network and to share their experiences.

Another memorable experience was two years ago when WACC moved from London to the new headquarters here in Toronto. I had the pleasure to officiate the opening ceremony of the new premises.

Q: How has WACC developed over the years?

As members of WACC, we have a faith driven inspiration that can contribute to a better world. Over the years, WACC has become a professional organization focused on issues of social change, providing a forum for the voiceless to speak out.

Q: What should communicators expect at Congress 2008?

We are looking forward to Congress because we will have high profile speakers and training sessions where people will learn from each other. It will be a forum for people to tell stories of what they have witnessed and what peace issues they are working on.

The Congress theme of Communication is peace: Building viable communities will exemplify the voice of church media in peace issues. Churches are often divided and it is hard for them to come out with clear messages. This will be an opportunity to give a united voice to the message of peace.

I urge members and communicators to register in large numbers to attend this memorable event. I expect to be inspired as I have been inspired through this organization in the last six years.

Q: Could you mention some of your personal experiences in peace issues?

Currently I am working for a peace organization called Pax Christi which is engaged in peace initiatives in about 20 countries. Recently, I monitored elections in Pakistan. It was a memorable experience for me to hear what people need to attain peace and what little steps can be taken towards democracy.

Q: How do you see the future of WACC?

For the future, WACC should raise its own profile though the new media especially the internet. It is important that people should find, through the internet, important information regarding the themes we are working on, such as communication rights. We need to hear more stories of people related to these themes.