Community Governance Circle

Building Resilient Communities: How Do We Decide Together?

As many of the larger systems around us begin to fray, communities are being called to strengthen their ability to organize wisely and respond with clarity. Governance is not just for institutions. It is a living practice that shapes how we listen, decide, and take responsibility together. 

This is the first meeting of what may become an ongoing circle dedicated to practicing and deepening governance capacity within our local communities. In the future I hope to practically explore decision-making methods to cultivate a space for thoughtful dialogue and collective sensemaking.

This first circle invites participants into a reflection of lived-experience around:

• Shared decision-making practices
• Community-led governance
• Power, participation, and accountability
• Organizing in times of uncertainty
• Building resilient communities & trust-based cultures

Who this is for:

Organizers, facilitators, community members, parents, leaders, and anyone interested in strengthening how we make decisions together in Nanaimo and beyond.

What this is not

This is not a lecture, workshop, or networking event. No prior knowledge or expertise is required. Come with curiosity and a willingness to engage.

Practical Details

Wednesday, March 26, 2026
6:30 — 8:00pm / Arrive 6:15pm
My Inner Harbour – 149 Wallace St, Nanaimo
(Entrance also via Richard Street)
The Salon Space

Tea provided. No need to bring anything — just yourself.

Suggested donation: $10–15 | No one turned away for lack of funds.

Space is intentionally limited to 12 participants to support meaningful conversation. Pre-registration required.

About your Host & Instigator

Jenni Ottilie Keppler 

I am a visual sensemaker and professional visual scribe for gatherings where I help groups navigate complexity and see their shared path forward. I also am a community organizer in Nanaimo’s South End (SEED neighbourhood co-op) and love exploring organizational development as part of the Nanaimo Forest School Co-op Board and Team.

This gathering is part of my ongoing interest in how shared decision-making and participatory governance can strengthen local resilience and create spaces where collective wisdom can emerge.

Find out more about the host: Website: www.ottilie.cc
Instagram: @jottiliek  Linkedin