Inter-Cultural Intelligence

I've always lived in a country that governed itself freely for hundreds of years, until now. I'm now living in my 4th country (3rd Continent) and it has been an amazing experience. Latvia was again made an independent nation in 1991, after 50+ years of occupation by the Nazi's and the Soviet Union. We're finding that this nation is full of such lovely people and we already feel welcomed. 
 
It is hard to explain how much I've learned in just one month trying to grasp the Latvian history/culture/etc. and it has intensified my drive to make a meaningful impact through our organization/etc. I see how much more is possible in freedom and the incredible gift it is; not to be taken for granted.

To share one insightful personal experience: This picture represents about 2 million people that held hands & sang from the capital of Estonia, through Riga, Latvia and down to Lithuania (Baltic Countries). This is now known as the 'Baltic Chain of Freedom'.  You can see these pictures in several of the museums celebrating the special & powerful moment.  

We were invited for a meal by a Latvian family we met, and it turns out the incredible woman was right there along with the millions standing, holding hands in this ''chain'' when she was young in 1989. It was inspiring to hear her story. 
  
''On 8/23/89, approx. two million people from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania joined hands to form a human chain spanning 690 kilometers (430 miles) across the three Baltic states. This peaceful political demonstration became known as the Baltic Way or the Baltic Chain of Freedom''.  (Source: https://lnkd.in/e-jWSvfD)
 
Coincidently, I'm starting a certification this week (Finally! I've been excited!) in relation to seeking further understanding of people/teamwork in a global world. Once completed, it will be offered in the form of training as a HIHR LLC service and will definitely benefit me as a new resident of Latvia.

The program is called Inter-Cultural Intelligence. This goes much deeper than my current/previous experiences. KnowledgeWorkx, the certifying group, provides tools/programs in over 70 countries with organizations large & small around the world! They have become a dear partner to us whom we trust and deeply appreciate.  I have come to realize, especially as of late, how little I really understand about cultures different than my own upbringing/life experience.

I'll be looking for individuals who would like to learn more about this as well. To become a certified practitioner, I'll successfully execute the training/coaching with a group of participants (free of charge).  
 
This is beneficial for those working in international organizations to support collaboration, problem solving and success for global teams (though you don't have to leave home these days to find an international team, am I right?).

If you also have interest in growing in this area, please message me/email us at [email protected].
#teamwork #international #culture

Author: Erika Butler, CEO

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