2026 FIGT Virtual Forum-

Talking Across Divides:

Communicating through differences

On 18 & 19 April 2026 FIGT will host FORUM 2026.  This biennial, virtual event will focus on Talking Across Divides: Communicating Through Differences.   We sincerely hope you’ll join us as we consider this timely theme!  

There are many divisions in today's world, which we all - as globally-mobile families and individuals - are regularly travel through or are confronted about. Differences of birth places, languages we speak, cultures we are familiar with, foods we make and enjoy, countries we have lived in, friends we have, and where they are from - to mention a few. So many differences that somehow we, in our globally mobile lives have managed to find similarities in (or with) - found the things we have in common, or share, as a way of overcoming what 'differs'. 

What can we learn from one another, who can share tips for managing, overcoming and learning from differences and division? How can we rise above them, healthily, and happily? What has been studied and researched? 

These are just some of the questions this theme inspires in us - and we are sure our community, globally and the communities within them, have many resources and lessons to share. 

Among the differences we make a note of - but by no means consider exclusive, or comprehensive - are those listed below: 

• Between parents and children - of all ages, and living in different relationships or places

• Between educational systems and the communities, people they share - in particular the neurodiversity within student populations

• Of language, location, cultural practices/norms and expectations

• Of religions - in places of less tolerance, or awareness/acceptance

• Of identity - when ones local community does not see/accept you, as you are

• Within the realm of 'sustainability' and the generally 'unsustainable' aspects of global mobility (ie travel; not understanding what happens (if anything) in your new local

• About coping with culture shock, reverse culture shock, and identity shifts

• About the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ expat families

• About racial equity in expatriate assignments and relocations

• About bridging cultural gaps between expat families and host communities

• About the perspectives of refugees, asylum seekers, and expatriates

• …and more, no doubt

Any questions? Do not hesitate to reach out to forum@figt.org.

Keynote speaker announced! -

Hanlie van Wyk is a psychologist, researcher, and leadership consultant whose work explores how people communicate and connect across deep cultural, ideological, and historical divides. With more than two decades of international experience across Africa, Europe, and the United States, Hanlie works at the intersection of social psychology, organizational leadership, and intercultural dynamics—helping leaders, teams, and families find constructive ways to engage through difference.

To learn more, click HERE!