What is a Jam?

Jams are an intentional gathering of folks that seek to facilitate growth and positive change on three simultaneous and deeply interconnected levels: the internal, the interpersonal, and the systemic. Sparked into life and supported by the organization YES!, these gatherings focus on the power of self-awareness and of beloved community, recognizing how inner work and relational shifts can lead to healing and liberation. They nurture vision and collaboration to co-create possibilities for our lives, our families, our work and our communities.

In music, a jam is a creative, live gathering of musicians who, together, spontaneously create a new sound. Similar to that, YES! Jams are places where diverse leaders and visionaries bring together their passions, openness, and unique perspectives. In spontaneous connection, we weave layers of experience, wisdom, heart, and spirit to create real magic. Together, we create something greater than we as individuals can create alone.   

A lot of movement trainings are about strategy, but leave out how to build healthy relationships. Other retreats focus on personal transformation but leave out systemic change. Some trainings work on leadership and power dynamics, but forget our souls. Jams brings together all three — we give change-makers tools to build open-hearted, healthy communities where people can be real with each other.

Roan first attended the Southern Leadership Jam in North Carolina in 2016, and they’ve been facilitating Jams around the world since 2018. Their beloved Jam teams include:

• The LGBTI+/Queer Jam

• The Wellness and Healing Justice Jam

• The World Gaels’ Jam

• The Men and Masculinities Jam

You can find out more about Jams and keep up with their current offerings here.