IAGP Affiliate Organisations & International Practice and Research Connecting Across Borders for Collective Growth By Dr Carlos A. Raimundo, [email protected] I’m writing to you wearing two hats: as Chair-Elect of the IAGP CAOA (Consultative Assembly of Organisational Affiliates) and as Chair of the International Section of the ASGPP (American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama). CAOA – Honouring the Past, Building the Future I’m honoured to step into the role of Chair-Elect of the CAOA, and I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to Magdalene Jeyarathnam, who has led the CAOA during the current administration with wisdom, energy, and grace. She leaves behind a rich legacy—and truly big shoes to fill. We are planning a transition meeting on July 16 at 10:00 AM. If this newsletter reaches you after that date, the recording will be available to ensure everyone stays informed and included. More about CAOA As the incoming Chair, my first step is to get to know each of our affiliate organisations—their goals, their leadership, and their contributions. My intention is to foster a body of mutual support that strengthens our professional efforts for the benefit of society. As J.L. Moreno wisely stated, “A truly therapeutic procedure cannot have less of an objective than the whole of humankind.” I’d also like to invite you to promote the IAGP 2025 Book, Cultural Diversity, Groups & Social Challenges. International Practice and Research – A Shared Purpose This vision of unity and collaboration also guides my role as Chair of the International Section of the ASGPP. These two roles are deeply interconnected. Both focus on bringing together psychodrama and group psychotherapy professionals from around the world to cultivate synergy, share knowledge, exchange research, and learn from one another’s practices. As we know, the transfer of psychodramatic and group therapy methods across cultures can sometimes resemble a game of Chinese whispers—subtle yet significant changes arise depending on the trainer, cultural context, and local needs. This diversity is not a limitation, but a rich strength. It has inspired me to envision a global initiative: Psychodramatists and Group Psychotherapists Sans Frontières—a call for open communication, mutual learning, and shared practice beyond organisational boundaries. There is an emerging initiative that could enrich this global cohort of professionals. Keep tuned. One way to engage in this global dialogue is by participating—either in person or online—in professional events such as the upcoming IAGP Sapporo Conference in August and the ASGPP Online Symposium in November. These gatherings offer valuable opportunities to connect, learn, and grow together across borders. Affiliate organisations, please share your calendar of events, including emailing dates and information to communications@iagp.com Let us continue this journey together—learning, evolving, and co-creating a global community grounded in purpose and human connection.