Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center’s 2024 “Basic Mediation Training” begins Friday, February 23 in-person in Hilo. The 32-hour training spans two weekends, February 23-24 and March 1-2, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The instructor is Diane Petropulos, an experienced mentor mediator, facilitator, and trainer from Maui. Over 4 days, learn the process of mediation and how to apply advanced communication skills—such as active listening, summarizing and rephrasing, and using open-ended questions—in order to help deescalate conflict and resolve differences. This training is perfect for anyone who wants to communicate more effectively personally and professionally, become a better negotiator and problem-solver, and increase your value in the workplace. Upon successful completion of the training, participants may apply to join Ku‘ikahi’s volunteer mediator apprenticeship program.