Understanding Unconscious Bias

The Second Module of the Training on Community Mentor Orientation is an amazing learning tool .It helped me clearing the concept of Implicit/Unconscious Bias and how we unintentionally are acting upon it.

I was hooked by every word of the session and took following take home lessons; (which I am sharing if it can be of help);

These Biases are actions without our intentions

The skills the Mentors need to master;

1.Mindfulness and active listening

2.Refraining from unconscious bias which is automatically activated /involuntarily

3.Build a mentor-mentee relationship

4.When we talk about Implicit Bias we refer to attitude or stereotypes that might effect our understanding and our actions and decision are in an unconscious manner

5.Most important point from all the learning was that Even if we dont have the intention of being bias , unconscious bias still has impact . and it creates filters.

A beautiful message in the end : for self-reminder; We are here to bring in awareness , this is an opportunity to gain some skills , we need to work to minimize these filter and to grow as Partners.

Living in Pakistan I encounter many cases of Implicit Bias almost everywhere on daily basis at homes , in offices , in courtrooms , in Public. How we unconsciously are creating bias base on caste , financial circle, ethnicity , gender and complexions. But however , I myself am a very neutral and always encourage all the women and girls around me to focus on your skills and development and not the words or biasness effect you.