Roots and Branches: How the Tree of Life Sparked Connection at Our First Open Circle Storytelling Pop-Up
- Admin
- Jun 12
- 2 min read
On June 7, something beautiful happened in Winnipeg.
Despite the rain, we gathered—women from all walks of life—inside a warm, welcoming community space for our very first Open Circle: StoryBridge Pop-Up. What was planned as an outdoor event became a rich indoor tapestry of culture, memory, and shared humanity.
Our guests came from all corners of the globe—France, Russia, Peru, Guatemala, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic—each carrying stories rooted in faraway soils but now flourishing in Canada. Some had been here for less than five years, others for over half a century. What united them? A willingness to connect through storytelling.
Storytelling That Builds Belonging
At StoryBridge, we believe that storytelling isn’t just a tool—it’s a transformative force. That’s why we chose the Tree of Life methodology for this event.
Developed as a strengths-based approach to community healing and identity affirmation, this method invites participants to “grow” a tree that represents their life:
Roots symbolize heritage and origins
Trunk highlights skills and personal strengths
Branches represent hopes and dreams
Leaves and fruit honour important people and life gifts
As participants reflected and shared, stories unfolded—of migration, of resilience, of the small daily moments that make up a life in transition. What started as individual stories soon blossomed into a collective narrative of courage, connection, and cultural celebration.
Why We Offer Free Open Circle Storytelling Events
Open Circle: StoryBridge Pop-Ups are free community storytelling events designed to create inclusive spaces for newcomers, seniors, women, and individuals facing isolation or transition.
We partner with community organizations, libraries, cultural groups, and funders to offer these events in local parks, community centres, and public spaces.
These aren’t just gatherings—they’re micro-moments of transformation. Participants report feeling more connected, more confident, and more seen. And for communities, these events break barriers, strengthen social bonds, and foster greater understanding across cultures and generations.
Partner With Us
Are you a community group, donor, or funder looking to support mental health, cultural inclusion, and community connection in tangible, meaningful ways?
We offer:
Pop-up storytelling events like Open Circle
Multi-week workshops for newcomers, youth, and seniors
Fee-based training and facilitation for nonprofits and community workers
Opportunities for sponsorship and co-branded storytelling initiatives
Let’s create change—one story at a time.
Contact us at info@thestorybridge.ca to host an Open Circle in your community or to explore partnership opportunities.
Want to see us in action?
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