FROM THE ASSESSOR, Stephanie Bachmann Mattei

[EN] I am delighted to introduce Jacqueline Fernández as a newly Certified Trainer in Latin America—and the first CNVC Certified Trainer in Uruguay! Jacque and I have walked this certification journey together, strengthening our relationship and supporting one another in developing a deeper understanding of NVC practice in specific contexts.

Jacque is deeply committed to her spiritual path, which closely resonates with my own, and she has a profound interest in exploring power dynamics in all relationships. The words I have heard her share most often are, "Compassionate Seeing"—her way of embodying the spirit of See Me Beautiful, the song Marshall so loved to sing.

I celebrate Jacque's joining our network, and I have every confidence that she will enrich our organization through her presence, her perspective, and the richness of her life experience.

[ES] Me alegra mucho presentaros a Jacqueline Fernández como nueva formadora certificada en Latinoamérica y la primera CT en Uruguay! Jacque y yo hemos recorrido juntas este camino de certificación, fortaleciendo nuestra relación y apoyándonos mutuamente para alcanzar una comprensión más profunda de la práctica en contextos específicos.

Jacque está muy comprometida con su camino espiritual, que resulta ser muy similar al mío, y tiene un gran interés por analizar las dinámicas de poder en todas las relaciones. Las palabras que más a menudo le he oído compartir son «Mirada Compasiva». Su forma de encarnar la canción «See Me Beautiful» que a Marshall le encantaba cantar.

Celebro que Jacque se vaya incorporando a nuestra red y confío plenamente en que contribuirá a nuestras organizaciones con su presencia, su perspectiva y sus experiencias de vida.

From Jacqueline:

[EN] My journey with Nonviolent Communication (NVC) has been one of discovery, fascination, and enthusiasm; of determination and effort; of grief and healing; a journey of encounters, connections, and love. It has been a chosen path, built step by step with the support I received—asking for money, clothes, a suitcase, and my partner’s hand as the plane took off on my first-ever flight.

I first encountered NVC in Uruguay in 2013, in a workshop facilitated by Pilar de la Torre and organized by the Kuan Yin Buddhist Association. Something was deeply imprinted in me through the compassion I felt when I saw Pilar place herself in the position of a participant’s father. I left with a sense of connection, like a fish in water, as though I had “come home.”

From the beginning, my NVC practice has been intertwined with Buddhism. From Margarita Huber, the Buddhist teacher whose disciple I am, I learned about compassion, giving from the heart, and the contentment and integrity that arise from doing so. I also learned the idea of “not putting one head on top of another” in relation to judging our judgments. Buddhist psychology is an integral part of the way I live NVC.

Then came the IITs, and my path of training in NVC gradually became the joy of continuing to discover, traveling, finding treasures, and returning to Uruguay to share them with my colleagues. After three years of study and practice, along with considerable insecurity and the support of my friends, I began facilitating workshops. I shared NVC in NGOs, schools, cooperatives, professional teams, and individual processes, and I named my NVC initiative Communication with Heart.

Over time, I came to understand NVC through a systemic lens and to see how systems of domination cut across the intrapersonal, interpersonal, cultural, and structural dimensions of life. Since then, I have been weaving into my understanding and practice an integration of the intention to transform systems of domination, the discernment rooted in the Buddhist path, and the social critique of injustice that comes from my studies in philosophy.

In 2024, I began the Certification Process. Stephanie generously agreed to be my Assessor and to enter an unfamiliar territory and language in which we could still meet one another. Throughout the process, I reflected on the path I had traveled, organized my understanding of key concepts, and practiced. I also experienced the collective process of building together and took part in two DTAs, where we worked through our differences, listened to the impact on one another, and supported each other through a shared vision of the path.

[ES] Mi camino en la CNV ha sido un camino de descubrimiento, fascinación y entusiasmo; de determinación y esfuerzos; de duelos y sanaciones; un camino de encuentros, conexiones y amores. Un camino elegido, construido paso a paso con el apoyo recibido, pidiendo dinero, ropa, valija, y la mano a mi compañera para el despegue en mi primer vuelo en avión.

Conocí la CNV en Uruguay en 2013, en un taller facilitado por Pilar de la Torre y organizado por la asociación budista Kuan Yin, allí se creó “un sello” en mí por la compasión que sentí al ver a Pilar ponerse en el lugar del padre de una participante, salí con una sensación de conexión, de pez en el agua, de “llegar a casa”.

Desde el inicio mi práctica de la CNV se entrelaza con el budismo. Con Margarita Huber, maestra budista de la que soy discípula, aprendí sobre compasión, sobre dar desde el corazón y el contento y la integridad que surgen de allí, sobre “no poner una cabeza sobre otra cabeza” en relación a juzgar los juicios. La psicología budista es una parte integral de mi forma de vivir la CNV.

Luego vinieron los IIT, el camino de formación en CNV se fue transformando en el disfrute de seguir descubriendo, de viajar y encontrar tesoros y volver a Uruguay para compartir con mis compañeras. Con tres años de estudio y práctica, bastante inseguridad y el apoyo de mis amigas/os comencé a facilitar talleres. Compartí en ONG, colegios, cooperativas, equipos profesionales, procesos individuales y nombré Comunicación con Corazón a mi emprendimiento con la CNV.

Con el tiempo llegué a la mirada sistémica de la CNV y a la perspectiva de que los sistemas de dominación transversalizan lo intrapersonal, lo interpersonal, lo cultural y lo estructural. Desde entonces voy tejiendo en mis comprensiones y prácticas una integración entre esta intención de transformar sistemas de dominación con el discernimiento propio del camino budista y la crítica social a la injusticia de mis estudios en filosofía.

En 2024 empecé el proceso de certificación, Stephanie tuvo la generosidad de ser mi asesora y habitar un territorio/lenguaje extraño en el que podíamos encontrarnos. En el proceso miré el camino recorrido, ordené conceptos y practiqué. Transité la construcción colectiva y la experiencia de dos DTA donde caminamos las diferencias, escuchamos los impactos y nos sostuvimos en una visión compartida del camino.

FROM THE ASSESSOR, Stephanie Bachmann Mattei

[EN] I am happy to introduce Laura Pose Pecego from Uruguay as a newly Certified Trainer. Laura’s journey with Nonviolent Communication (NVC) began in 2013. She spent many years both learning and sharing NVC well before she and I met. Over time, her path has unfolded organically, shaped by steady commitment, lived practice, and deep personal inquiry.

Her journey has been one of gradually stepping into her own personal power by tapping into her inner authority—gently and courageously dissolving long-held self-doubt and beliefs about not being enough. Through this process, Laura has cultivated a growing sense of self-trust, clarity, and presence, which she now brings into her work as a trainer.

I would like to sincerely thank the LATAM Assessors’ team—Marianne Sikor (Assessor), Camila Reyes (AIT), and Yuri Haasz (AIT)—for their support throughout Laura’s journey, and especially Yuri, who has stood alongside me in actively accompanying her every step of the way. Please support me in welcoming Laura into our network!

[ES] Me complace presentar a Laura Pose Pecego, de Uruguay, como nueva formadora certificada. El recorrido de Laura con la Comunicación No Violenta comenzó en 2013. Pasó muchos años aprendiendo y compartiendo la CNV mucho antes de que ella y yo nos conociéramos. Con el tiempo, su camino se ha desarrollado de forma orgánica, moldeado por un compromiso constante, la práctica en la vida cotidiana y una profunda reflexión personal.

Su trayectoria ha consistido en ir adquiriendo poco a poco su propio poder personal al conectar con su autoridad interior, disolviendo con delicadeza y valentía las dudas sobre sí misma y las creencias arraigadas de no ser suficiente. A través de este proceso, Laura ha cultivado un creciente sentido de confianza en sí misma, claridad y presencia, que ahora aporta a su trabajo como formadora.

Me gustaría expresar mi más sincero agradecimiento al equipo de evaluadores de LATAM: Marianne Sikor (Assessor), Camila Reyes (AiT) y Yuri Haasz (AiT), por su apoyo a lo largo del recorrido de Laura, y especialmente a Yuri, quien ha estado a mi lado acompañándola activamente en cada paso del camino. ¡Por favor, ayúdenme a dar la bienvenida a Laura a nuestra red!

From Laura:

[EN] I first encountered Nonviolent Communication (NVC) in 2013 during a Gestalt Coaching training. From that very first experience, I sensed the depth and potential of the work developed by Marshall Rosenberg. I read his book, traveled to learn from different trainers, and since then I have continuously sought opportunities to deepen my learning and practice.

In the early years, what resonated most deeply with me were the four components of NVC because they reflected my own personal challenges: the difficulty of expressing my differences, a strong tendency toward self-criticism, and a limited connection with my own needs. Becoming aware of these patterns transformed my personal life and became the foundation from which I began practicing and facilitating workshops.

My first International Intensive Training (IIT) in 2017, and especially my connection with the Brazilian NVC community, marked a turning point in my journey. It was there that I began to understand the deeper dimension of NVC: a consciousness that goes beyond intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships to include a structural and systemic perspective, seeing NVC as a path toward social change. This understanding gradually became central to my practice and has profoundly influenced both my personal life and the way I accompany others and facilitate learning spaces.

During the thirteen years leading up to my certification, I studied, practiced, and shared NVC in Uruguay through approximately 140 workshops and more than 1,200 hours of facilitation, reaching around 2,100 people. Although my formal Certification Process lasted two years, I feel I had been preparing for it for much longer. Today, I experience it as a path of profound personal growth and transformation that continues to unfold in my life, and for that I feel deeply grateful.

[ES] Conocí la Comunicación No Violenta en 2013, durante una formación en Gestalt Coaching. Desde ese primer encuentro intuí la profundidad y el potencial del trabajo desarrollado por Marshall Rosenberg. Leí su libro, viajé para formarme con distintos referentes y, desde entonces, no he dejado de buscar espacios de aprendizaje y práctica.

En los primeros años, me impactaron especialmente los cuatro pasos de la CNV por la resonancia que tenían con mis propios procesos: la dificultad para expresar mis diferencias, la autoexigencia y el escaso contacto con mis necesidades. Esa toma de consciencia transformó mi vida personal y fue la base desde la cual comencé a practicar y facilitar talleres.

A partir de mi primer IIT, en 2017, y particularmente al contactar con la comunidad de CNV de Brasil, hubo un punto de inflexión en mi proceso. Allí empecé a comprender la dimensión más profunda de la CNV: una conciencia que trasciende las relaciones intra e interpersonales e incluye una mirada estructural y sistémica, entendiendo la CNV como un camino hacia el cambio social. Esta comprensión fue tomando cada vez más espacio, e influyó tanto en mi práctica personal como en mi manera de acompañar procesos y facilitar espacios de aprendizaje.

Durante los trece años previos a mi certificación estudié, practiqué y compartí la CNV en Uruguay a través de alrededor de 140 talleres y más de 1.200 horas de facilitación, alcanzando a unas 2.100 personas. Aunque mi proceso formal de certificación duró dos años, percibo que venía preparándolo desde mucho antes. Hoy lo vivo como un camino de profundo enriquecimiento y transformación personal que continúa desplegándose en mi vida, por lo que me siento profundamente agradecida.

FROM THE ASSESSOR, Stephanie Bachmann Mattei

[EN] It is with immense joy that I introduce Gabriele Di Giuseppe as a newly Certified Trainer in Italy (Lazio region). Gabriele and I first met in 2019, and from the very beginning I recognized in him a remarkable capacity for presence, deep listening, honesty, and transparency. These qualities have been—and continue to be—a gift to me as well as to our community of Certification Candidates.

Throughout these years, Gabriele has faithfully participated in our community gatherings, both in person and online. A historical researcher and author, Gabriele has, from our earliest encounters, brought a nonjudgmental awareness to the exploration of power dynamics. His sensitivity as a man creates a sense of safety and trust.

During his years on the path toward certification, Gabriele also dedicated himself to deep inner exploration and the healing of wounds connected to his personal history. He chose to offer the fruits of this inner journey as a gift to the community during his assessment. I celebrate Gabriele's presence on this earth and within our network.

[IT] È con immensa gioia che vi presento Gabriele di Giuseppe come nuovo formatore certificato in Italia (regione Lazio). Gabriele ed io ci siamo conosciuti nel 2019 e fin da allora ho riconosciuto in lui una capacità di presenza, ascolto, onestà e trasparenza che sono stati e continuano ad essere un dono sia per me che per la comunità di candidati.

In tutti questi anni Gabriele ha fedelmente partecipato agli eventi comunitari presenziali e in linea. Ricercatore storico e autore, Gabriele ha portato fin dai primi incontri un' attenzione non giudicante alle dinamiche di potere.

La sua sensibilità in qualità di uomo offre sicurezza e fiducia. In questi anni di percorso verso la certificazione, Gabriele si è dedicato anche all'esplorazione interiore ed alla guarigione di ferite profonde legate alla sua storia. Gabriele ha scelto di portare i frutti di questo cammino interiore come un dono per la comunità durante il suo assessment. Celebro la presenza di Gabriele su questa terra e nella nostra rete.

From Gabriele:

[EN] Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is the tool that helped me stop reacting and start taking action in the world. I’ve stopped fighting fiercely against what I don’t like, and I’ve started embodying and promoting a world that is a little more welcoming and compassionate - using tools that I actually love! And - little by little - I’ve started to include myself in that embrace and compassion too.

The Certification Path was a place where I didn’t have to feel "alone with my NVC"; it allowed me to grow as a trainer, and to belong to a community of learning and mutual support. Above all, it brought people into my life who are now here to stay, right in my heart! This journey has been so beautiful, rich, and precious to me that I can’t really sum it up in this short space... It’s a path I recommend with absolute enthusiasm and trust to anyone who wants to live and spread NVC.

[IT] La CNV è lo strumento con cui ho smesso di reagire e ho iniziato ad agire nel mondo. Ho smesso di lottare ferocemente contro quello che non mi piace, e ho iniziato a incarnare e promuovere un mondo un po’ più accogliente e compassionevole - con strumenti che finalmente mi piacciono!

E in questa accoglienza e compassione ho iniziato – piano piano – a inserire anche me stesso. Il Percorso di Certificazione è stato il luogo in cui ho potuto non sentirmi “solo con la mia CNV”; ho potuto crescere come formatore, ho potuto appartenere a una comunità di apprendimento e di sostegno reciproco. E, soprattutto, ho potuto conoscere persone che sono entrate stabilmente nella mia vita e nel mio cuore! È stato un viaggio per me così bello, ricco e prezioso, che non riesco bene a sintetizzarlo in questo spazio… Un percorso che consiglio con entusiasmo e fiducia a chiunque voglia vivere e diffondere la CNV.

FROM THE ASSESSOR, Jennifer Warnick

Todd’s commitment to continued learning and growth has been a pleasure to support. I have experienced how he shows up with an open heart in the presence of tension, aware of what is his to hold, and where he might support others. I have been moved to witness Todd’s awareness of power and the growth of his skill in supporting access, without centering himself. I am delighted to recommend Todd for Certification and to support his recognition as a resource in the community.

From Todd:

In 2012, I was in year 5 of a 5-year argument with a group of my closest friends. A chance encounter over lunch introduced me to Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life and I thought, “This is exactly what I need!” To my disappointment and regret, it proved to be too little, too late to reconcile that conflict—at least so far. But it did change the course of my life.

One of my key learnings from that experience was that I wanted to be skilled in empathy and compassion to be ready for my next moment of truth. I joined the Texas IIT in 2018 and spent more than a week learning with Certified Trainers. I was moved not only by what they taught, but by the way they embodied NVC. I remember thinking, “Whatever process makes that kind of integration possible, I want it.” That longing for personal transformation eventually led me to pursue becoming a CNVC Certified Trainer.

I’m especially grateful to Karen Starz, who organized the Texas IIT, included me in her practice group, invited me to join the board of Houston NVC, and offered so many opportunities for me to practice and learn. I’m grateful to Kathleen Macferran, who was one of the trainers at that IIT. Her work to create the Trainer Candidate Community Path (TCCP) brought me into so many rich interactions with candidates and trainers like Mika Maniwa and Marcia Christen.

Community, collaboration, mutuality, and connection are some of my core values—needs that I find an ever-present source of motivation. I’m grateful for the way Jennifer Warnick embodied each of those things in her role as my Assessor. Her facilitation of assessment in community was such a powerful, effective way for me to build capacity, reflect on my progress, and feel confident in the result of the process.

So far, my NVC facilitation includes technical project managers, school leaders, church communities, high school students, compassion advocates, and groups navigating political division and organizational change.

Every situation, community, and engagement brings its own challenges, opportunities, and assets. My approach combines practical skill-building, compassionate connection, and immediate opportunities to apply NVC to everyday relationships. Consequently, I've brought NVC to leadership development, refugee welcome, controversial conversations, community transitions, and a year-long international practice group disguised as a book club.

I want to live in a world where everyone has what they need to thrive. I'm convinced that the path from this world to that one runs through empathy, and I'll spend the rest of my days finding ways to help families, workplaces, neighborhoods, and faith communities communicate more honestly, navigate conflict more constructively, and create a more connected way of being together.

FROM THE ASSESSOR, Stephanie Bachmann Mattei

[EN] It is with great joy that I introduce Simona Coppi as a new Certified Trainer in Italy. Both originally from Tuscany, Simona and I have walked this path together for many years, deepening our understanding, integration, and sharing of Nonviolent Communication (NVC).

[IT] È con grande gioia che vi presento Simona Coppi come nuova formatrice certificata in Italia. Entrambe toscane, Simona ed io abbiamo camminato insieme per molti anni, approfondendo la comprensione, l’integrazione e la condivisione della CNV.

Durante questo percorso, Simona si è dedicata a integrare questa pratica nella sua famiglia, soprattutto nella relazione con sua figlia. Parallelamente, ha esplorato la dimensione intrapersonale della CNV, in particolare per rimanere nel proprio potere personale davanti a quelle che percepiamo come autorità.

Consapevole delle dinamiche di potere che emergono in ogni relazione, Simona porta il potenziale della CNV come strumento di cambiamento sociale, principalmente negli ambiti familiari ed educativi. Benvenuta Simona nella rete internazionale delle formatrici e dei formatori certificati di CNV!

From simona:

[EN] I discovered Nonviolent Communication (NVC) through my daughter. At the time, she was just over a year old, and I did not feel prepared to raise her with unconditional love. Because of the conditioning I had received, I found myself reacting in ways that created suffering and disconnection.

That is how I encountered NVC and began this journey of self-awareness, seeking to reconnect with something that had always been within me. I soon realized the importance of having a supportive community with whom I could share values and challenges as we grew together. NVC is a rare treasure—the more you share it, the more it multiplies. In 2021, I felt called to begin sharing it with others.

From that moment on, I pursued a more structured path of learning, beginning training as an NVC-oriented counselor. Then, in 2022, I embarked on the CNVC Certification Process with the intention of learning Nonviolent Communication with integrity and depth, within a community where I could share values, experiences, and practices.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to engage with people from a wide variety of backgrounds, deepening my understanding of NVC while expanding my capacity for listening and connection. There have also been moments of difficulty, and being able to rely on shared processes has supported me in transforming those experiences into opportunities for growth, both for myself and for my relationships.

I am especially grateful to the people I have met along this journey, with whom I have built relationships of closeness, trust, and mutual support. I am also deeply thankful for the unconditional acceptance I experienced from my Assessor and Assessor-in-Training. Through their presence, I was able to experience a safe environment where I could show up authentically.

All of these relationships, together with the support of my family, have allowed me to experience trust and care in ways that have profoundly shaped my journey. Through them, I have been able to question deeply rooted beliefs, release some of the conditioning I carried, and open myself to new possibilities for living the consciousness and practice of Nonviolent Communication. This has contributed significantly to my development, both as a person and as a trainer.

Looking back on these years as a whole, I recognize that I have walked this path with curiosity, commitment, and gratitude. Today, I feel grounded and integrated, able to act with intention and contribute to social change, beginning with the areas that matter most to me, especially education. I am passionate about accompanying people on journeys of freeing themselves from the conditioning that can stand in the way of raising future generations with love and compassion.

[IT] Ho conosciuto la CNV grazie a mia figlia. All'epoca aveva poco più di un anno ed io non mi sentivo preparata a crescerla con amore incondizionato: per via dei condizionamenti ricevuti mi osservavo reagire in modi che portavano sofferenza e disconnessione. E così ho incontrato la cnv e cominciato questo cammino di consapevolezza per ritrovare qualcosa che era già dentro di me.

Presto ho compreso l'importanza di avere una rete di riferimento con cui condividere valori e difficoltà per crescere insieme; la cnv è un raro tesoro che più lo condividi e più si moltiplica e così nel 2021 ho sentito il desiderio di cominciare a condividerla. Da quel momento ho cominciato a formarmi in modo più strutturato, intraprendendo un percorso di counseling orientato alla CNV e poi nel 2022, il cammino di certificazione con l'intento di apprendere la Comunicazione Nonviolenta con integrità e profondità all'interno di una comunità con cui condividere valori, esperienze e pratiche.

Durante questi anni ho avuto la possibilità di confrontarmi con persone provenienti da contesti diversi, approfondendo la mia comprensione della CNV e ampliando la mia capacità di ascolto e di connessione. Ci sono stati momenti di difficoltà e il poter fare riferimento a processi condivisi mi ha sostenuta nel trasformare queste esperienze in opportunità di crescita, sia per me sia per le mie relazioni.

Sono particolarmente grata alle persone che ho incontrato lungo questo percorso e con cui sono nate relazioni di vicinanza, fiducia e mutuo supporto. Molto ha contribuito anche il senso di accoglienza incondizionata che ho sperimentato con la mia assessor e assessor in training, per cui ho potuto respirare un ambiente sicuro in cui espormi con autenticità. Tutte queste relazioni, insieme con il supporto della mia famiglia, mi hanno permesso di fare esperienza di fiducia e cura in modi che hanno profondamente influenzato il mio percorso. Grazie a esse ho potuto mettere in discussione convinzioni radicate, sciogliere alcuni condizionamenti e aprirmi a nuove possibilità di vivere la consapevolezza cnv.

E questo ha contribuito in modo significativo al mio sviluppo, sia come persona sia come trainer. Guardando a questi anni nel loro insieme, riconosco di aver vissuto questo cammino con curiosità, impegno e gratitudine. Oggi mi sento integra e radicata così da muovermi con scelta ed influenzare il cambiamento sociale a partire dalle aree che più mi stanno a cuore come l'educazione. Mi piace stare accanto alle persone in percorsi di liberazione dai condizionamenti necessari a crescere le nuove generazioni con amore e compassione.

FROM THE ASSESSOR, Sylvia Haskvitz

Neal brings to the Nonviolent Communication (NVC) community a love of play and embodied learning. He enjoys improv and sharing NVC in creative and experiential ways. While Neal’s professional roots were in Information Technology, he increasingly found himself drawn toward more embodied and heart-centered ways of relating and living.

Neal’s certification journey included periods of major life transitions and moments of feeling disconnected within the community, alongside many opportunities for learning and growth. Over time, we have seen a growing openness to feedback, connection, and mutual support.

Throughout these experiences, Neal consistently valued living NVC consciousness in his interactions, even during times of conflict within his former cohousing community when he was both triggered and a trigger for others. We noticed how important integrity is to Neal in the way he lives and shares NVC.

Neal brings to the CNVC community a depth of life experience and a desire to build bridges where there is division. He is enthusiastic about supporting others in sharing NVC and demonstrates a willingness to continue growing and learning. He actively nurtures relationships within the CALF community and recently helped organize a collaborative NVC learning and fundraising event that supported three candidates, himself included, in attending a 9-day CALF retreat.

Neal lives in North Carolina and is enthusiastic and instrumental in gathering local NVC practitioners to connect and see where their collaborations take them.

From Neal:

I was introduced to Nonviolent Communication (NVC) by my then-wife, Amy. She came back from an NVC Intensive in 2004 and for a period of time, too short from my perspective, but still sweet, she was helping transform our disagreements and arguments into feelings and needs. I was amazed. It didn't save our marriage, though we are still friends. And it was quite a gift she gave me.

I've been to 7 intensives through the years - 2005 (with Amy), 2008 (when we were separating as a couple), 2016, 2017, 2018, 2025 and 2026. Each one was so incredibly different, but inevitably I experienced something special and unique in each one. In 2008 I experienced my connection with the spirituality of NVC started to emerge. In 2025, I had a powerful spiritual experience, and this year, I experienced a very lived version of NVC, rather than experiencing it as a workshop or series of events.

I kicked off my certification journey in 2018 at the CALF Retreat in Shipman, Virginia. And by total coincidence I completed my final assessment at the 2026 CALF Retreat in Shipman, VA, my most recent intensive.. The Certification Process was very challenging, especially as I had a full-time demanding job in Information Technology as a Program Manager through September 2024. Parting from my job gave me more space to focus on completing my certification. I'm not saying that was needed, but it helped a lot, so I could really focus on the final pieces.

FROM THE ASSESSOR, Ruud Baanders

[EN] I have known Nicolò since I joined the assessment team as Assessor-in-Training, and it has been a journey of mutual growth to have accompanied him as Assessor-in-Training and in the last few years as Assessor.

He has contributed to our community of candidates with his tranquil presence, his sense of humour and above all with Nonviolent Communication (NVC) inspired music. Nicolò is a professional singer, songwriter and guitar player who is able to convey the quality and depth of Marshall Rosenberg’s singing and playing. He does not only play the “traditional” NVC songs, but he has also written and produced songs that express how he understands and lives NVC. He has touched many hearts in and outside our community that go beyond language.

Not only his music but also his documentation for the Certification Process, key differentiations and NVC processes, do explore and express deeply an understanding and living of NVC that has demonstrated to me his growth over the years of his NVC consciousness and NVC as a spiritual practice. To me, an important aspect of his maturity in the understanding of human beings and human consciousness has come to completion with his recent certification as a lucid dreaming facilitator.

He has been studying and practicing lucid dreaming for many years alongside his development in NVC. In the last year we have discussed often his wish to integrate NVC not only in his music but also in the lucid dreaming practice. I consider it of great courage of him to have done his final assessment on the topic of integration of NVC into lucid dreaming. He has inspired many of us to see that we can expand our NVC consciousness beyond our wake consciousness.

I am confident that he will be contributing with his passion of integrating NVC into music and lucid dreaming to a growth of NVC into yet unexplored social and cultural segments of the Italian territory, and hopefully beyond.

[IT] Conosco Nicolò da quando sono entrato a far parte del team di valutazione come assessor in training, e accompagnarlo in questo percorso – prima come assessor in training e poi, negli ultimi anni, come assessor a tutti gli effetti – è stata un’esperienza di crescita reciproca.

Ha arricchito la nostra comunità di candidati con la sua presenza serena, il suo senso dell’umorismo e, soprattutto, con la musica ispirata alla Comunicazione Nonviolenta (CNV). Nicolò è un cantante, cantautore e chitarrista professionista, capace di trasmettere la qualità e la profondità del canto e del modo di suonare di Marshall Rosenberg. Non solo suona le canzoni “tradizionali” della CNV, ma ha anche scritto e prodotto brani che esprimono il modo in cui comprende e vive la CNV. Ha toccato molti cuori, dentro e fuori la nostra comunità, andando oltre le barriere linguistiche.

Non solo la sua musica, ma anche la sua documentazione per il processo di certificazione, le differenziazioni chiave e i processi della CNV, esplorano ed esprimono profondamente una comprensione e un modo di vivere la CNV che mi hanno dimostrato la sua crescita nel corso degli anni nella sua consapevolezza della CNV e nella CNV come pratica spirituale.

Per me un aspetto importante della sua maturità nella comprensione degli esseri umani e della coscienza umana si è completato con la sua recente certificazione come facilitatore di sogno lucido.

Ha studiato e praticato il sogno lucido per molti anni parallelamente al suo sviluppo nella CNV. Nell’ultimo anno abbiamo discusso spesso del suo desiderio di integrare la CNV non solo nella sua musica, ma anche nella pratica del sogno lucido. Ritengo che sia stato un grande atto di coraggio da parte sua aver svolto il suo assesment finale sul tema dell’integrazione della CNV nel sogno lucido. Ha ispirato molti di noi a vedere che possiamo espandere la nostra coscienza della CNV oltre la nostra coscienza da svegli.

Sono fiducioso che, con la sua passione per l’integrazione della CNV nella musica e nel sogno lucido, contribuirà alla crescita della CNV in segmenti sociali e culturali ancora inesplorati del territorio italiano e, si spera, oltre.

From Nicolò:

[EN] Discovering Nonviolent Communication (NVC) has been an extraordinary gift that has transformed my life! I am deeply grateful to have navigated my certification journey with Stephanie Bachmann Mattei and Ruud Baanders, who, as my Assessors, offered me countless opportunities for growth. Stephanie introduced me to the richness and complexity of the different levels at which NVC can be expressed—personal, interpersonal, collective, and systemic—while Ruud guided me into the heart of Compassion through his integration of NVC and Internal Family Systems (IFS).

This journey of inner transformation allowed me to immerse myself in NVC as a spiritual practice—a path for bringing into the world the inner attitude of Love and Compassion that Marshall Rosenberg spoke about. It was especially meaningful for me to participate in two International Intensive Trainings (IITs), in 2022 and 2025, where I had the opportunity to meet trainers who deeply inspired me along my path.

One of my aspirations is to contribute to the spread of NVC through music. I have been singing, playing music, and writing songs since I was 14 years old. Through the record label Madamadorè, I have released two albums, Polvere Magica ("Magic Dust," 2021) and Se a sera nel mio mondo ("If, in the Evening, in My World," 2023). From the very beginning of my certification journey, I have written songs that express my understanding of NVC. It is with great joy that I share that I am about to release Bellezza Universale ("Universal Beauty"), a new album of twelve songs, largely inspired by Nonviolent Communication.

Alongside music, another great passion that I have sought to harmonize with my understanding of NVC is the world of dreams, particularly the practice of lucid dreaming—a dream in which you are aware that you are dreaming while the dream is taking place. After many years of practice, workshops, and retreats, I became a certified lucid dream facilitator in 2025. Through this ongoing journey of inner exploration, I have experienced how NVC can also be integrated into the dream world.

I love offering trainings and sharing NVC in educational settings, especially in schools, supporting deeper connection between teachers and students. In my way of sharing NVC, I enjoy singing my own songs, using music and poetry as tools for integrating and communicating the principles of this practice. I find great value in creativity, playfulness, and humor—I especially enjoy using puppets and the jackal and giraffe ears! Above all, I strive to remain connected to spontaneity, authenticity, and gratitude.

[IT] Conoscere la Comunicazione Nonviolenta (CNV) è stato un dono immenso, che mi ha cambiato la vita! Sono profondamente grato per aver potuto navigare il mio percorso di certificazione con Stephanie Bachmann Mattei e con Ruud Baanders, che, in qualità di assessor, mi hanno offerto innumerevoli stimoli di crescita. Stephanie mi ha introdotto alla dimensione della complessità dei vari livelli in cui la CNV può esprimersi (personale, interpersonale, collettivo e sistemico), e Ruud mi ha accompagnato nel cuore della Compassione, grazie al suo lavoro di integrazione tra CNV e IFS (Internal Family System).

Questo viaggio di trasformazione interiore mi ha permesso di immergermi nel processo della CNV come una pratica spirituale, come una via per manifestare nel mondo quell’attitudine interiore di Amore e Compassione di cui parla Marshall Rosenberg. È stato molto significativo per me partecipare nel 2022 e nel 2025 a due Training Intensivi Internazionali (IITs), dove ho potuto conoscere formatori e formatrici che mi hanno profondamente ispirato nel mio percorso.

Uno dei miei obiettivi è contribuire alla diffusione della CNV attraverso la musica. Canto, suono e scrivo canzoni da quando avevo 14 anni, e con l'etichetta discografica Madamadorè ho pubblicato due album musicali, “Polvere Magica” (2021) e “Se a sera nel mio mondo” (2023). Fin dai primi passi del mio percorso di certificazione, ho scritto brani che esprimono la mia comprensione della CNV. Con grande gioia desidero condividere che sto per pubblicare “Bellezza Universale”, un nuovo album musicale di 12 brani in gran parte ispirato alla Comunicazione Nonviolenta!

Oltre alla musica, l’altra grande passione che ho cercato di armonizzare con la mia comprensione della CNV riguarda la dimensione onirica e, in particolare, la pratica del sogno lucido (un sogno in cui sei consapevole di sognare mentre stai sognando). Dopo molti anni di pratica, di workshop e di ritiri, nel 2025 mi sono certificato come facilitatore di sogno lucido. Grazie a una costante esplorazione di ricerca interiore, ho potuto sperimentare come la CNV possa essere integrata anche nella dimensione onirica.

Amo offrire formazioni e condividere la CNV in ambienti educativi come le scuole, in particolare supportando la connessione tra insegnanti e studenti. Nel mio stile di condivisione della CNV amo cantare le mie canzoni, utilizzando la musica e la poesia come strumento di integrazione e diffusione dei contenuti relativi a questa pratica. Trovo molto valore nella creatività, nel gioco, nell’umorismo (adoro utilizzare i burattini e le orecchie sciacallo e giraffa!), e nel mantenere il contatto con la spontaneità, l’autenticità e la gratitudine.

From the assessor, Ruud Baanders

[EN] The past years of accompanying Chiara feel to me like an intense collaboration process between Aandidate and Assessor. Collaboration is a quality in Chiara that I highly appreciate, and I have seen her working together with other candidates on the Certification Preparation Package (CPP) documentation and in running workshops, in her theatre work and with me. Within our community and especially during our online and in-person meetings, “the convivenze”, I have seen her taking on various roles in the organization with much care for the individual and the group.

The quality of her CPP work and her presentations demonstrated to me a high level of commitment to the sharing of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and a level of professionalism. And within this professionalism there was always space in the moment of connecting with, and sharing of, her vulnerability. In this time of online courses, it was important for me to have seen her bringing a high level of professional, creative, and visual quality into her presentation materials. The integration of NVC consciousness and practice into a candidate’s personal life and work environment are for me essential aspects of the certification journey, both of which I have been able to witness continuously in her diary and in our conversations.

She has brought to her certification journey and also to our community her vast experience of work in the theatre. This experience shows up in her understanding and demonstration of the impact of the voice and body on others when we share NVC. She has brought this very alive in her final assessment, and I am thrilled that it is her intention to support the certification community and NVC trainers worldwide beyond our community with her unique experiences and skills in theatre work and public speaking. As it is her passion to integrate NVC with theatre work I am convinced that Chiara will take NVC consciousness and NVC practice into fields of life that have been relatively unexplored so far.

[IT] Gli ultimi anni trascorsi ad accompagnare Chiara mi sono sembrati un processo intenso di collaborazione tra candidata e assessor. La collaborazione è una qualità di Chiara che apprezzo moltissimo, e l’ho vista lavorare insieme ad altri candidati e candidate alla stesura della documentazione del CPP e alla conduzione di laboratori, nel suo lavoro teatrale e con me.

All’interno della nostra comunità e specialmente durante i nostri incontri online e di persona (le “convivenze”), l’ho vista assumere vari ruoli nell’organizzazione con grande cura per le singole persone e per il gruppo. La qualità del suo lavoro per il CPP e delle sue presentazioni mi ha dimostrato un alto livello di impegno nella diffusione della Comunicazione Nonviolenta e un elevato livello di professionalità. E all’interno di questa professionalità c’era sempre spazio per connettersi con la propria vulnerabilità e per condividerla.

Nelle presentazioni online, per me è stato importante vederla apportare un alto livello di qualità professionale e creativa nella creazione di slide e supporti visivi. L’integrazione della consapevolezza e della pratica della CNV nella vita personale e nell’ambiente di lavoro di un candidato sono per me aspetti essenziali del percorso di certificazione. Ho potuto osservare continuamente entrambi questi elementi nel suo diario e nelle nostre conversazioni.

Ha portato nel suo percorso di certificazione e anche nella nostra comunità la sua vasta esperienza di lavoro teatrale. Questa esperienza traspare dalla sua comprensione e dalla sua capacità di mostrare l’impatto che la voce e il corpo hanno sugli altri quando condividiamo la CNV.

Ha reso tutto questo molto vivo nel suo assessment finale e sono entusiasta che sia sua intenzione sostenere la comunità di certificazione, e i formatori di CNV nel mondo al di là della nostra comunità, con le sue esperienze uniche e la sua competenza nel lavoro teatrale e nel public speaking. Poiché la sua passione è integrare la CNV con il lavoro teatrale, sono convinto che Chiara porterà la consapevolezza e la pratica della CNV in ambiti della vita finora relativamente inesplorati.

From Chiara:

[EN] I first encountered Nonviolent Communication (NVC) in 2020, during the COVID pandemic. At the time, theater activities had come to a halt, and I was leading online workshops on communication through theatrical techniques. I felt the need to deepen my understanding of approaches and methodologies that could enrich my work and broaden my understanding of human relationships. It was then that my eyes fell upon Marshall Rosenberg’s book in a bookstore.

I began reading it with the intention of finding a method that could support my professional practice. What I discovered was something much greater. From the very first pages, a new perspective on language, conflict, and relationships opened up before me. It was a true revelation that transformed the way I express myself and relate to others, and it soon became a source of personal support as well.

At that time, I was going through significant changes in my personal life, and, because of the lockdown, I was spending a great deal of time alone. Nonviolent Communication arrived as a guiding resource. Through self-empathy and a new understanding of needs and emotions, I found tools that supported me through that delicate period of my life.

From there grew the desire to deepen my practice—first as a personal resource, and later as an integral part of my professional work. I attended online courses and later participated in the training programs offered by the Centro Esserci with Anna Bassi, Angela Attianese, and Stephanie Bachmann Mattei. Together with other participants, we formed a practice group that remained active for more than three years.

After completing several training programs, I applied to enter the CNVC Certification Process. Stephanie invited me to a residential gathering for certification candidates, where I met her community and got to know Ruud Baanders, who accompanied me throughout the process as my Assessor-in-Training. Our relationship was simple, collaborative, and supportive, allowing me to experience the certification journey with continuity and a strong sense of shared growth.

Meanwhile, I began bringing NVC into my local community through practice groups and introductory courses, integrating it more and more into my theater work and into schools, where it has become a constant foundation for the way I facilitate groups.

Today, I see Nonviolent Communication as a living framework that supports the way I relate to myself and to others. Certification represents another step in an ongoing journey, one that I hope will enable me to contribute to the spread of a culture of connection, deep listening, and personal responsibility within a community that shares my values and vision.

[IT] Ho incontrato la Comunicazione Nonviolenta nel 2020, durante il periodo del Covid. In quei mesi l’attività teatrale era sospesa e conducevo incontri online sulla comunicazione attraverso gli strumenti del teatro. Sentivo il bisogno di approfondire approcci e metodologie capaci di arricchire il mio lavoro e ampliare la mia comprensione delle relazioni umane. È stato allora che, in libreria, mi è caduto lo sguardo sul libro di Rosenberg.

Ho iniziato a leggerlo con l’idea di trovare un metodo utile alla mia pratica professionale. La lettura si è rivelata molto più ampia: fin dalle prime pagine si è aperta una nuova prospettiva su linguaggio, conflitti e relazioni. È stata una vera rivelazione, capace di trasformare il mio modo di esprimermi e di entrare in relazione, diventando presto anche un sostegno personale.

In quel periodo stavo attraversando cambiamenti importanti nella mia vita privata e, complice il lockdown, trascorrevo molto tempo da sola. La Comunicazione Nonviolenta è arrivata come risorsa di orientamento: attraverso autoempatia e una nuova comprensione di bisogni ed emozioni, ho trovato strumenti per sostenermi in quel momento delicato della mia vita.

Da lì è nato il desiderio di approfondirla, prima come sostegno personale e poi come parte integrante del mio lavoro. Ho seguito corsi online e successivamente i percorsi del Centro Esserci con Anna Bassi, Angela Attianese e Stephanie Bachmann Mattei. Con altri partecipanti abbiamo creato un gruppo di pratica che è rimasto attivo per oltre tre anni.

Dopo diversi percorsi formativi ho chiesto di accedere alla certificazione. Stephanie mi ha invitata a una convivenza dei candidati, dove ho conosciuto la sua comunità e incontrato Ruud Banders, che mi ha accompagnata nel percorso come assessor in training. La relazione è stata semplice e collaborativa, permettendomi di vivere il processo con continuità e senso di crescita condivisa.

Nel frattempo ho portato la CNV nel mio territorio attraverso gruppi di pratica e corsi introduttivi, integrandola sempre di più anche nel lavoro teatrale e nelle scuole, dove è diventata un riferimento costante nel mio modo di condurre i gruppi.

Oggi considero la Comunicazione Nonviolenta una cornice viva che sostiene il mio modo di stare in relazione con me stessa e con gli altri. La certificazione rappresenta un passo dentro un percorso in evoluzione, con il desiderio di contribuire alla diffusione di una cultura della connessione, dell’ascolto e della responsabilità personale, all’interno di una comunità con cui condivido valori e visione.

From the assessor, Gina Lawrie

It has been a joy for me to accompany Lottie as my last candidate before I step down from the Assessor role. We were so clear that we wanted to finish the journey together that when Lottie was unable to attend what was to be my last Final Assessment event, we decided to create a special assessment event! Lottie took much of the responsibility for organizing, so she had many additional growth opportunities!

I celebrate Lottie’s eagerness to learn, her connectedness, her love of nature, her compassion for the world. I have seen her transformation through the Certification Process, and it has been beautiful to witness. Here is someone who holds nonviolence in her heart and will bring clarity and creativity to being a Certified Trainer, and I’m enthusiastic about the contribution I anticipate she will make to our community. She will be bringing NVC to a wide range of people and is especially passionate about creating NVC community and consciousness in her hometown of Dorking.

from Lottie:

As I write these words, I am celebrating. I’m enjoying the satisfaction I have gained from the reading, thinking, and writing that I have done in the preparation of the portfolio. I’ve had the opportunity to turn over and examine the gems of experience of teaching Nonviolent communication with and to others.

I’m celebrating the daily noticing that allows me to ground myself in the consciousness of feelings and needs and to live more fully from my heart. I’m striving to live and share a life-serving and life-sustaining practice at a time when life on the planet is at risk. I temper my despair with knowing that I am doing what I can in my own way with other people whom I see taking committed action.

From the Assessor, Maria Hechenberger

I first met Angi as a candidate in the Certification Process and have been in continuous exchange with her over the past years. From the very beginning, I appreciated her presence, clarity, and sincerity. With a warm and caring presence, she holds groups even through challenging dynamics and creates a safe and trusting environment.

What particularly touches me is her ability to empathize deeply with different perspectives while at the same time providing orientation and guidance. Angi leads clearly when needed and accompanies others quietly and supportively when restraint serves the process better. She has an impact without placing herself at the center of attention. In my view, this is one of her special strengths.

Her passion lies in working with parents, children, and educators. I am very much looking forward to the book she is currently writing on this subject. It is with great joy that I welcome Angela Maurizzi into the circle of Certified Trainers, and I trust that she will continue to share Nonviolent Communication with integrity, warmth, and quiet strength.

Maria with The Austrian Bavarian Assessment Team

from Angela:

[EN] I studied primary school education. The most formative experiences of my life took place through my interactions with my family and those around me. It was precisely these interpersonal relationships that made my inner patterns and emotional wounds immediately apparent to me during the certification process—and continue to do so to this day.

In 2016, I was working as a teacher at a public school in Switzerland when I witnessed a situation in which children were being punished by a teacher. The scene triggered a strong reaction in me, prompting me to seek a conversation with the school administration and the teacher in question. However, I failed in my attempt to convince them that punishment is not a constructive way to deal with children.

In my search for a community centered on cooperation, equality, and relationships, I encountered Nonviolent Communication. To my surprise, I soon realized that my reaction to the incident at school had far more to do with my own inner dynamics than with the teacher themselves. At the same time, I began to understand that practices of punishment are rooted in a long history of social dominance structures.

Through processes of self-empathy, wounds that I had experienced and witnessed during my childhood came to light. I am deeply grateful to my empathy buddies and trainers for these experiences, as they have opened a new path to connection and inner growth for me. Another source of strength for me is the idea that there is something greater that sustains and strengthens me even in difficult and painful times. From this has grown a deep trust that something valuable can emerge even from painful experiences. Self-transcendence, self-empathy, and knowledge of trauma and power structures form the foundation of my work as a trainer today. They enable me to meet people with presence, dignity, and openness.

Today, it fills me with joy and purpose to accompany children in their growth—not least as a mother of two preschoolers and in a lively family life where many children often come together. In addition, I share the principles of Nonviolent Communication with institutions such as schools, churches, and families. I lead practice groups and work as a family mediator. I am also working on a book project for parents and schools.

I am particularly committed to creating spaces that go beyond simplistic either/or thinking, where nuanced experiences are possible. I am delighted to be part of the international NVC community and to share this work with care as an official representative of the Center for Nonviolent Communication.

[DE] Ich habe Lehramt für die Primarstufe studiert. Die prägendsten Entwicklungsprozesse meines Lebens vollzogen sich in der Begegnung mit meiner Familie und meinen Mitmenschen. Gerade zwischenmenschliche Beziehungen machten mir meine inneren Muster und Verletzungen während des Zertifizierungsprozesses auf unmittelbare Weise sichtbar und tun dies bis heute. 

Im Jahr 2016 war ich als Lehrerin an einer Regelschule in der Schweiz tätig, als ich eine Situation miterlebte, in der Kinder von einer Lehrperson bestraft wurden. Die Szene löste in mir eine starke Reaktion aus, woraufhin ich das Gespräch mit der Schulleitung sowie der betreffenden Lehrkraft suchte. Dabei scheiterte ich jedoch mit dem Versuch, sie davon zu überzeugen, dass Bestrafung kein konstruktiver Weg im Umgang mit Kindern ist.

Auf der Suche nach einer Gemeinschaft, in der Kooperation, Gleichwürdigkeit und Beziehung im Zentrum stehen, begegnete ich der Gewaltfreien Kommunikation. Zu meinem Erstaunen wurde mir schon bald bewusst, dass meine Reaktion auf das Geschehen in der Schule weit mehr mit meinen eigenen inneren Dynamiken zu tun hatte als mit der Lehrperson selbst. Gleichzeitig begann ich zu verstehen, dass Praktiken der Bestrafung in einer langen Geschichte gesellschaftlicher Dominanzstrukturen verwurzelt sind.

Durch Prozesse der Selbstempathie wurden Wunden sichtbar, die ich in meiner Kindheit erlebt und miterlebt hatte. Für diese Erfahrungen bin ich meinen Empathie-Buddies und Trainer:innen zutiefst dankbar, da sie mir einen neuen Zugang zu Verbindung und innerem Wachstum eröffnet haben. Tragend ist für mich zudem die Vorstellung, dass es etwas Größeres gibt, das mich auch in schwierigen und schmerzhaften Zeiten hält und stärkt. Daraus ist ein tiefes Vertrauen gewachsen, dass selbst aus leidvollen Erfahrungen etwas Wertvolles entstehen kann.

Selbsttranszendenz, Selbstempathie sowie Wissen über Trauma und Dominanzstrukturen bilden für mich heute das Fundament meiner Tätigkeit als Trainerin. Sie ermöglichen es mir, Menschen mit Präsenz, Würde und Offenheit zu begegnen.

Heute erfüllt es mich mit Freude und Sinn, Kinder in ihrem Wachstum zu begleiten — nicht zuletzt als Mutter von zwei Kindergartenkindern und in einem lebendigen Familienalltag, in dem häufig viele Kinder zusammenkommen. Darüber hinaus teile ich die Haltung der Gewaltfreien Kommunikation mit Institutionen wie Schulen, Kirchen und Familien. Ich leite Übungsgruppen und arbeite als Mediatorin. Zudem arbeite ich an einem Buchprojekt für Eltern und Schulen. 

Besonders am Herzen liegt mir dabei, jenseits reduktiver Entweder-oder-Logiken Räume zu schaffen, in denen differenzierte Erfahrungen möglich werden. Ich freue mich, Teil der internationalen NVC-Gemeinschaft zu sein und diese Arbeit als offizielle Vertreterin des Zentrums für Gewaltfreie Kommunikation mit Sorgfalt weiterzugeben.