On February 5-6, 2024, Jasło residents aged 13-17 participated in a Wendo workshop held at the GEN Science Generator in Jasło. The workshop was organized by the Municipal Public Library in Jasło and GEN Science Generator.
WenDo means “Way of Women” in Polish translation. WenDo is the only method of self-defense and assertiveness in Poland developed by women and for women. It combines methods of physical and mental self-defense, but is not a martial art. It is not about learning how to fight, but how to prevent aggression and, if threatened, how to defend yourself effectively. It helps resolve conflicts, overcome stereotypes and fears, guilt and shame. WenDo boosts self-confidence and self-esteem.
The workshop was led by Karolina Suska – an educator, WenDo trainer, tutor, graduate of the PAFF School of Leaders, Academy of Cultural Leaders and School of Trainers, for over 10 years leading activation activities for women. Implementer of many development workshops, awarded at the local and national level for her social and cultural activity.
Participants took part in exercises on breath and voice work, effective communication exercises, simulations, discussions and scenes. In terms of physical self-defense, they practiced punches, kicks, releases, blocks, screaming, among other things.
They learned how to recognize when their boundaries are being crossed and what to do in such situations. They learned how to express their opinions more freely, how to “get along” better with others and how to make decisions – the minor and the more serious ones – more easily. They understood that every woman and girl can learn to defend themselves effectively and have a sense of power and influence over the situation.
Task implemented by the City of Jasło with funds from the project “Jasło – my city, my home” in the framework of the project: “Jasło City of Knowledge”, funded by the EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 and the state budget.
