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To live together better, we must speak together better
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Our differences don't have to divide us.
We've been dialogue-builders since 2015.
Versus began during the Syrian refugee crisis as a non-profit, WeDoSomething.
We used bad news to 'do something' good: raise money, fight stereotypes, build care
between communities in the news and those watching the news.
We hosted dozens of ‘fun’raisers in support of refugees, Indigenous communities, against
food insecurity, for suicide prevention. We invited these communities to join us.
We were a bridge joining together people who would never meet otherwise - so they could
talk to each other, learn from each other, care about each other not in spite of their differences,
but with respect for them.
We founded Versus so that we could teach people to become bridges themselves.
Our history
We hosted dozens of 'fun-raisers': our gatherings were a bridge, connecting radically different people—Indigenous communities, refugees, the hungry, with citizens who wanted to support and know them. Our events —met as equals to learn from one another. When Joyce Echaquan was killed, we knew it was time to teach others how to become bridges themselves.
Between 2015-2020 our 'funraisers' brought together Indigenous communities, refugees, and other marginalized communities with citizens who wanted to listen, learn from and support them.
To help each other, to learn about each other, to care about each other - and to enjoy it. Inclusion in action.
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Our approach
No 'shoulds'
We meet all individuals where they are, without shaming, judging or using the word 'should'. We use science to show people that , humor and wonder to elicit curiosity and we encourage participants to offer the same to one another.
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Skills for a hybrid life
Our curriculum breaks the silos between the worlds of science, academia and mindfulness: we draw on cognitive neuroscience, behavioral psychology, media studies, anti-extremism, equity and inclusion principles, somatic practices and digital citizenship to deliver learning experiences that last.
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Democracy
We teach democratic life skills for the digital era. We show people the power they have to affect society, and also, the responsibility we each have to protect democracy through our everyday actions, online and in real life.
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Gut brain first
Change begins in the subconscious mind, not by telling people what to do. That's why we use emotions-based learning -and teach from the inside out: second brain (the gut) first, rational mind last.
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Learn together
We don't just teach, we learn from you too. We encourage what we're teaching: constructive feedback. We each have different backgrounds, ethnocultural and generational realities. Being open to learning together keeps our workshops accessible, engaging, useful, relevant.
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Growth mindset
Practical, hands-on skills that you will use the same day, guaranteed.
What we teach you can apply to all parts of your life
we learned from hands-on experience with communities that taught us how to listen. We include their voices and wisdom in our approach, and leave space for participants to choose their level of interaction.
About us
Sophie Tarnowska’s work is deeply personal. Drawing from her family’s history of displacement and her own experiences in conflict countries, Sophie teaches others how to dismantle biases and embrace differences.Inspired by her grandparents, father, and stepmother—each of whom was a refugee at some point—she founded WeDoSomething to counter the isolation and division she’s seen in the world. Her experiences with refugees, Indigenous leaders, and community advocates have taught her to uncover her own biases and to help others do the same. Sophie believes that when we listen and connect, we can build a kinder, more inclusive world together.
