In a world ablaze with complexity, crisis, and transformation, the role of facilitation emerges as a powerful force for collective liberation. ​Tending the Flame invites readers into a profound exploration of what it means to be a liberatory facilitator—one who nurtures spaces of purpose, joy, and agency to ignite transformative systems change. ​

Drawing inspiration from the elemental metaphor of fire, this framework weaves together wisdom from diverse traditions, including yogic philosophy, Afrocentric ubuntu, and Zapatista principles, to offer actionable practices for creating intentional spaces, navigating conflict, and cultivating interconnected liberation. ​ It challenges us to reimagine facilitation not as a neutral act, but as a deeply political and transformative practice that centers marginalized voices, disrupts systems of oppression, and builds collective capacity for change. ​

This document is not a static guide but a living invitation—an opportunity to reflect, adapt, and evolve as we tend the flames of possibility in our communities. ​ Whether you are an experienced facilitator, an emerging leader, or a curious learner, Tending the Flame offers tools, insights, and inspiration to help you embody the sacred work of creating a world where people and planet can flourish. ​

This framework is offered as a living document by the CoCreatiVerse Collective, meant to be adapted, questioned, and evolved through practice. Let this be your spark, your breath, your ember. Together, we can kindle the fires of transformation and illuminate the path toward collective liberation. ​

We invite you to download the document below, take what serves, add what's missing, and share what emerges as you tend the flames of transformation in your own communities.

Contributors: Deb Halliday, Danny Fisher-Bruns, Jennifer Atlee, Issac Carter, Melissa Darnell

If you’re curious about how CoCreative supports leaders and networks, let’s connect!