In this interactive performance-workshop, Brett Davidson explores listening not just as a personal practice, but as a vital political act. Combining elements of storytelling, theory, dialogue, audio, and visual imagery, the session invites participants to reflect on the ways listening shapes democracy, public life, and our collective ability to imagine change.
Drawing from his extensive experience in narrative strategy, media, and social justice, Davidson frames listening as a tool for transformation—one that can challenge dominant narratives, create space for marginalized voices, and foster deeper connections across difference. Participants will be invited to engage actively, considering how listening can become an ethical and creative practice in their own work, studies, and communities.
As a work in progress, the session opens a space for experimentation and exchange, encouraging those present to co-create meaning around the political and artistic potential of listening.
Brett Davidson is founder and principal at Wingseed LLC, where he supports social justice changemakers around the world to amplify their impact. Brett also serves as Lead of Narrative Field-Building with IRIS, the International Resource for Impact and Storytelling. Previously he was director of Media and Narratives at the Open Society Public Health Program, where he led an international team focused on changing long-held social narratives impacting health equity. Prior to joining Open Society in 2010, Davidson was a media consultant to civil society organizations in Southern and Eastern Africa. He previously served as program manager at the South African democracy institute Idasa, where he helped community radio stations develop participatory news and current affairs programming. Before that, he worked as a presenter and producer in radio current affairs at the South African Broadcasting Corporation, and in collaboration with the BBC. Brett has an MA in Journalism and Media Studies from Rhodes University and an MA in Individualized Study from NYU’s Gallatin School.
REGISTRATION
Please note that all our events are free and open to all, but you need to register!
This is an online event.
To attend, please register here.
For any questions, please contact cohds.chorn@concordia.ca
COHDS/ALLAB is located on unceded Kanien’kehá:ka territory, in Tiohtiá:ke/Montreal.
