A Landmark Gathering for the Global ESD Community
The May virtual seminar brought together seven top-tier Empowerment Self Defense (ESD) professionals from around the world, offering participants a rare opportunity to engage with diverse expertise, practical tools, and global insights. The event served as a powerful platform for learning, collaboration, and growth across the ESD field.

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Here’s a look at the outstanding sessions that took place:

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Gentiana Susaj – Networking and Expanding ESD into Different Sectors
Gentiana shared insights and experiences on how networking has played a key role in expanding ESD into different sectors—ranging from schools to workplaces and beyond. Participants explored practical strategies for introducing ESD as a tool for safety, well-being, and empowerment, while gaining actionable networking tips to open doors and build meaningful collaborations.

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Clara Porter – Active Bystander Intervention
Clara presented essential tools for safely and effectively intervening in situations where individuals or groups are targeted for harassment or harm. Attendees learned how to manage adrenaline, assess risk, and apply the 5 D's of bystander intervention: Direct, Distract, Delegate, Delay, and Document. Clara brought this life-changing work—grounded in prevention, action, and community empowerment—to life with clarity and purpose.

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Michal Eliraz and Esti Lifschitz – Empowering Responses
Michal and Esti explored how to use empowering responses with children in ways that build trust and encourage open communication. Their session also offered tools for ESD instructors to help participants see their own stories as success stories, enhancing both self-worth and resilience.

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James "Cat" Fitzgerald – Facilitating ESD to Men, Boys, and Male-Identifying Attendees
Cat led an interactive session focused on the unique obstacles and opportunities in facilitating ESD for men and boys. The discussion covered concepts, adaptation techniques, and strategies for engaging male-identifying participants effectively, with an open Q&A for shared learning and reflection.

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Brieanne Beaujolais – Measuring Impact: Program Evaluation for ESD
Brieanne guided participants through practical tools for evaluating ESD programs and tracking participant growth. The session made evaluation approachable and empowering, introducing methods rooted in equity, empowerment, and survivor-defined outcomes—ideal for improving curriculum, writing grants, or simply understanding what’s working.

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Amellia Chifodya – Scaling ESD Through Global Partnerships: The No Means No Worldwide Model
Amellia shared the No Means No Worldwide approach to ESD-based sexual violence prevention, highlighting how the organization partnered with over 100 groups across 10 countries. She offered insight into the program’s core components, its global reach, and the importance of quality assurance and a strong partner network in achieving sustainable impact.

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Krista Hanley – Empowered, Credible, Credentialed: The ESD Professional Credential and You

Krista introduced the Empowerment Self Defense Professional Credential (ESDP), the gold standard for ESD instructors. Participants learned how the credential affirms professionalism, ethics, and expertise, and discovered the steps to apply and prepare. The session was a valuable resource for both newcomers and seasoned professionals looking to elevate their standing in the field.

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Did you miss it? No problem! All sessions are recorded and available to access  for only 28$.