Peer Group Facilitators’ Networking 2.0: A Space of Trust and Inspiration

“Space of trust,” “a day of inspiration,” “a meeting of like-minded people.” No, we’re not just listing pretty phrases—these are real reflections from peer group facilitators about the networking event that took place last Saturday.

We started the day with a conversation with Illia Poludionnyi, psychotherapist and author of In Simple Words and What Is It Like, the War?. We talked about empathy in healthcare—how to be fully present during a consultation, maintain sensitivity, and at the same time take care of one’s own boundaries.

“The author explained when a doctor’s empathy can lead to burnout and when—on the contrary—it helps to avoid it. It’s all about the balance. Sometimes patients may overstep—messaging on social media or calling outside working hours. That’s exactly when it’s important to know how to stand your ground,” shared family doctor Tetiana Baida.

Of course, no networking event would be complete without mini peer group sessions. As part of the Empathy and Humanity Workshop, participants explored the Calgary–Cambridge model of consultation, confidentiality in medical practice, the N.U.R.S.E. model of empathetic support, boundary-setting, personal resource renewal, and much more.

One of the most emotionally resonant parts of the day was the performance by the “Susidy” Playback Theatre. This improvisational show highlighted the moments in life when someone nearby needs special attention, care, and empathy—sometimes from a medical professional.

“Their performance is pure improvisation based on our life stories. Different, deep stories—ones that make you laugh, cry, and ache. One story that struck me was about endless prescription lists given to a patient. The actors took a brief anecdote and brought it to life with such sensitivity that it gave me goosebumps,” recalled family doctor Nadiia Ishchuk.

We’d like to wrap up with the words of family doctor and facilitator Tetiana Remeniak, because nothing sums up the day better than the voices of the participants themselves:

“Every time I catch myself thinking how amazing it is to be part of this community. Every conversation recharges me, fills me with new ideas, and expands our shared bubble of wonderful people.”

We’re deeply grateful to the peer group facilitators Anastasiia Hibeskul, Maryna Opalenko, Olena Lemeshko, and Anna Ostafiichuk, who moderated the sessions and made this day truly special and inspiring.

And thank you to everyone who took part—for filling the day with meaning, warmth, laughter, and honest conversation.