banner banner

« All Events

  • This event has passed.

The Architecture of Trust Building in Mediation – A Joint Conference Between FMC and AFMS

November 28

Most mediators believe they understand trust, yet trust often unravels in the very moments it matters most. This keynote invites participants to look deeper, exploring how trust actually forms, breaks, and repairs in mediation. Dr. Michael Saini draws on lived experience and new research to reveal the hidden structure of trust and how mediators can intentionally design it into every interaction. You will leave seeing trust not as an instinct, but as a framework to be studied, practiced, and strengthened.

Where

University of Calgary ‘Blue Room’, 124 University Gate NW, Calgary, AB – and online via Zoom

Keynote Speaker

Dr. Michael Saini

Dr. Michael Saini is a Professor at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work at the University of Toronto, where he holds the endowed Chair in Law and Social Work and is cross-appointed to the Faculty of Law. He also serves as the Co-Director of the combined J.D./M.S.W. program. With over 20 years of experience working at the intersection of family law and social work, Dr. Saini brings a deep understanding of how social work values align with mediation practices. His research and teaching focus on trauma-informed approaches, child-inclusive dispute resolution, and evidence-informed policy development. He has authored more than 200 publications on parenting evaluations, family violence, and dispute resolution processes and regularly presents to international audiences on the evolving role of social workers in legal contexts. Dr. Saini is a board member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), Family Mediation Canada (FMC), and the Canadian Coalition for the Rights of Children (CCRC), and is committed to strengthening the profession’s role in peaceful, collaborative family law solutions.

On campus parking included!

Conference hotel: Alt Hotel Calgary University District, 482 Mclaurin St, NW,
Calgary, Alberta, T3B 6K3. Conference rate is $142/night, available until October 28, 2025 >> Click here to book at discounted rate

Registration Disclaimer
Registrations are transferable; however, no cancellations or refunds will be issued. Individuals who register for in-person attendance may switch to virtual attendance should circumstances change. Please note that no refund or price adjustment will be provided if switching from in-person to virtual. By completing your registration, you acknowledge and accept these terms.

Details

Date:
November 28
Event Category:
Website:
https://fmc.ca/the-architecture-of-trust-building-in-mediation/