Attending Resilience Rising – From Trauma to Triumph with Elizabeth Power gave me a fresh and much deeper understanding of what trauma looks like—and how resilience can be intentionally built over time.
Before this session, I mostly thought of trauma as something resulting from extreme or catastrophic events. But I learned that trauma can be far more personal and wide-ranging—emerging from experiences like financial instability, emotional neglect, generational pain, or political conflict. Many of the struggles people face, even when invisible or unspoken, can leave lasting impacts.
One of the most powerful tools I took away was the 7Cs framework of resilience:
Coping
Contribution
Character
Connection
Confidence
Competence
Control
Breaking resilience into these components made it feel practical and possible—something we can all work on, rather than a fixed trait you either have or don’t. It inspired me to reflect on which Cs I’m strong in, and which I can nurture further in my personal life and professional relationships.
The session also broadened my awareness of how trauma affects every aspect of life—emotionally, physically, socially, and mentally. It helped me see that certain behaviors, in myself and others, may be coping mechanisms or trauma responses—not simply “difficult” behavior. This insight will change the way I interact with people and approach situations in my work.
Another highlight was the sense of community. Seeing people engage, share, and ask questions reminded me that many of us carry stories. It reinforced how essential safe spaces are—in workplaces, homes, and communities—where people feel seen, heard, and supported.
Overall, this session was powerful and eye-opening. It gave me tools and frameworks I can use, permission to acknowledge certain experiences in my own life as trauma, and hope that healing is possible. Most importantly, it reaffirmed that being trauma-informed is essential for creating healthier relationships and spaces.
A heartfelt thank you to Elizabeth Power and the team for creating such an impactful and thoughtful experience. I’m walking away with more awareness, empathy, and practical ways to support both myself and others.
Nanaji Happiness, Nigeria