Talent show

Preparation

• This activity can be conducted with groups of women and group of men; however, it should be led in single-sex groups except when facilitators feel otherwise. The facilitators should also be the same sex as the participants in the group (i.e. women facilitators should facilitate activities among groups of women), especially for any sensitive discussions. This activity may be conducted with adolescents and youth, but considerations should be given toward conducting activities with individuals grouped by similar ages. It should be emphasized throughout the curriculum that violence should never be tolerated or accepted.

• Ask participants to stand in a circle.

Introduction

• Tell participants, “In this activity, we will learn about the skills and abilities in this group. I will describe a skill. If you think you have this skill, stand in the middle of the circle.”
• Demonstrate the process with an example.

Implementation

• Begin the activity. Say any of the following statements, or describe skills that you think would be relevant for your group:

“Stand in the middle if you are a good listener.”
“Stand in the middle if you can make people laugh.”
“Stand in the middle if you can negotiate a good sales price.”
“Stand in the middle if you can ride a bicycle.”
“Stand in the middle if you know how to cook well.”
“Stand in the middle if you are a good singer.”
“Stand in the middle if you are good at winning games.”
“Stand in the middle if you’re good at sports.”
“Stand in the middle if you can put a baby to sleep.”
“Stand in the middle if you are good at solving problems.”
“Stand in the middle if you are a good dancer.”

• Continue the activity until most participants have stood in the middle at least twice.

Discussion

Ask participants to sit in a circle. Discuss the activity by asking the following questions:

• • “Who stood in the middle at least once? Who stood in the middle at least two times? Three times?”
  • “What did you learn about this group?” Possible response: Every person has several skills. As a group, we all share many skills and talents.
  • Tell participants, “it’s important for everyone to know their own skills. This helps us build confidence and self-esteem. When you have confidence and self-esteem, you are better able to make decisions and manage everyday challenges.”