Chris Spies

Background

About Chris Spies

Chris is a seasoned conflict transformation practitioner and facilitator, specializing in retreats, dialogues, and accompaniment sessions across diverse cultural and social landscapes. With a career spanning Africa, Palestine, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, Europe, and the United States—as well as work with the United Nations in Guyana and beyond—Chris brings deep experience in both the challenges and opportunities of peacebuilding in global contexts. Having entered a semi-retired phase, I am embracing this time to invest more in family, writing, and well-being. This transition allows me to continue my work with a renewed focus on nurturing and empowering the next generation of peacebuilders. Throughout my career, I have been guided by a core belief: that people hold the wisdom and capacity to positively influence the processes that shape their lives. I am committed to creating safe, respectful spaces where these capacities can flourish—spaces built collaboratively with individuals rather than prescribed for them. I believe that accompaniment, when invited, can play a pivotal role in helping people realize their goals through relationships grounded in trust and respect. I have had the privilege of witnessing how empowering relationships can unlock people’s potential. Now, as I enter the final decade of my active professional journey, I am focusing my energies on intergenerational accompaniment, supporting young peacebuilders across Africa and beyond through the Unyoke Foundation By serving as a catalyst, coach, and mentor, I strive to inspire and foster mutual learning spaces that encourage meaningful transformation. The impact of this work is reflected in the countless individuals who have participated in my training courses, many of whom demonstrate profound shifts in how they understand and approach conflict. I am excited to continue contributing to this legacy, offering my experience and support to empower the changemakers of tomorrow.