How Ayeka Seminars Work

Ayeka Seminars can by arranged by independent groups such as family, friend, or community settings, by institutions such as schools and synagogues of all denominations, and by two people on their own.

We have tried to make the setting up of a seminar for independent groups and institutions as simple and smooth as possible. Here are the primary steps necessary for setting up a seminar group.

There are 3 primary elements needed to start an Ayeka seminar group:
• Participants
• Facilitator
• Materials

PARTICIPANTS

Who: It is very important to have the “right” people in the seminar. One person who is ambivalent about the seminar, who is not really “into it”, can diminish the openness and enthusiasm of the whole group. Because of this, Ayeka established its 10 Principles for Participants. These Principles should be sent out to potential members before the first meeting to make sure that everyone understands the nature of the group.

Number: The ideal number for a seminar group is 12, though seminars have worked with larger numbers and as small as 6.

FACILITATOR

Who: The Facilitator is either someone who chooses to run an Ayeka Seminar or someone who has been selected by their institution as being especially appropriate to facilitate. If possible, this person would participate in an Ayeka Facilitator Training program run for the institutions in his/her city. Ayeka runs a number of training programs in various regions throughout the year. If this not feasible, then the facilitator should be in touch directly with Ayeka regarding the tools and skills to best facilitate.

To best determine if someone is suited to facilitate an Ayeka Seminar we have established 10 Principles for Facilitators. Potential facilitators should be able to fulfill each principle.

Ayeka also is running professional development programs for seasoned facilitators in their respective cities.

MATERIALS

Participants: Participants receive introductory materials for their selected Ayeka Seminar when they register and pay online. They can then download the extensive introductory pages. The materials for each of the sessions will be distributed at each seminar by the Facilitator.

Facilitators: Facilitators should Ayeka and will be sent the extensive and beautifully graphically designed Facilitator Guide in the mail. There is no fee for the Facilitator Guide.