The Power of Small Conversations is a national initiative of the National Council of Jewish Women of Canada (NCJWC) and the NCJWC – Toronto and funded by the Government of Canada.

It brings together small groups of diverse Canadians for respectful, facilitated conversations about antisemitism, hate, and their impact on individuals and communities. Through personal storytelling and dialogue, participants build understanding, challenge assumptions, and explore ways to respond to hate.

Each conversation follows a simple, thoughtful structure designed to create a welcoming environment where participants feel comfortable listening, sharing, and learning from one another.

• Welcome and Introductions
  The moderator welcomes participants, reviews the conversation guidelines, and helps establish a respectful, inclusive space where everyone feels comfortable participating.
• A Personal Story
  The storyteller shares a personal experience of antisemitism and hate, providing a human perspective that serves as the foundation for the conversation.
• Guided Conversation
  Using thoughtful questions and facilitated dialogue, participants reflect on the story, ask questions, explore different perspectives, and engage in respectful discussion.
• Reflection and Closing
  The conversation concludes with an opportunity for participants to reflect on what they've learned, consider how they can respond to hate in their own communities, and share final thoughts before the session ends.

Every session is led by a trained moderator and storyteller. A brief anonymous survey is administered for all participants as the NCJWC is committed to a comprehensive evaluation process in order to learn and adapt our work.

Anyone who is interested in creating respectful conversations and helping build understanding. You do not need to be an expert on antisemitism or hate. Training, resources, and ongoing support are provided.

Volunteers can participate as a:

• Host – brings people together and provides the space
• Moderator – facilitates the conversation
• Storyteller – shares a personal experience of antisemitism and hate

Many volunteers choose more than one role.

We strive to bring together diverse Canadians as participants as well as hosts, storytellers and moderators.

Conversations can be held anywhere in Canada. They may take place in homes, workplaces, community organizations, or faith-based institutions. The Conversations can also take place online.

Hosts schedule conversations at a time that works for their participants. Each conversation lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Training is offered throughout the year as new volunteers join the initiative.

The NCJWC provides orientation and training as well as a Conversation Guide, templated invitations and follow up emails as well as a follow up document to share with participants.  We also provide support, coaching and feedback as requested.

Training is offered throughout the year as new volunteers join the initiative.

Overall, we estimate the time commitment to host a conversation is about 7 to 10 hours.  The includes the training, preparation and follow up, and of course the conducting the conversation.

No. You do not need to be an expert in any of these areas to volunteer.

Whether you are hosting, moderating, or sharing your story, NCJWC provides training, practical resources, conversation guides, and ongoing support to help you feel prepared and confident.

What matters most is a willingness to learn, listen respectfully, and help create meaningful conversations.

If you are a storyteller, you need to be willing to share your personal experience of antisemitism and hate – we will provide support and coaching!

Most people are nervous volunteering, but we are here to support you!

NO – everyone who supports respectful dialogue and wants to combat hate and antisemitism is welcome!

NCJWC is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to addressing important issues facing Canadians. Given the current rise in antisemitism and hate in Canada, this initiative is our response. Antisemitism and hate can feel overwhelming, but meaningful change often begins with a conversation. Our goal is to create safe spaces where people can listen, ask questions, learn from one another, and build stronger, more inclusive communities.

In our Spring 2026 pilot 178 people participated in 21 conversations across six provinces and territories. Our evaluation, conducted by the University of Toronto, showed that:

• 84% reported a better understanding of antisemitism in Canada.
• 81% reported increased awareness of how hate is experienced.

Sign up here if you are interested in being a storyteller, moderator or host.