The COMPASS International Business Management Forum, organised by the GRD School of Commerce & International Business and the GRD Institute of Management, Dr.G.R.D. College of Science, Coimbatore, hosted an impactful awareness session on “Building a Violence-Free World.”

International Anti-Violence Speaker and Performer Ben Atherton-Zeman was the Chief Guest and led an engaging and interactive session with students. Through a combination of performance, discussion and real-life situations, he addressed critical issues surrounding violence, gender-based violence, sexual assault, dating violence and domestic abuse.

The session highlighted the importance of consent, personal boundaries, empathy, equality and respectful relationships. Emphasising that “no” must always be respected, Ben urged students to understand and respect individual choices, personal space and boundaries.

A key focus of the programme was the role of men in preventing violence against women. The speaker stressed that ending violence against women is not merely a women’s issue and called upon men to become proactive allies by challenging sexism, speaking up against inappropriate behaviour and taking responsible action when they witness harmful conduct.

He emphasised that women must be treated with dignity,equality and respect, and that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities in society. He also underlined that healthy relationships are built on trust, communication and mutual understanding, rather than control or dominance.

The session also explored the concept of healthy masculinity, encouraging young men to embrace empathy, emotional awareness, responsibility and respect instead of aggression or dominance.

Adding a creative dimension to the programme, Ben continuously changed costumes and appearances to capture the attention of students and communicate serious social messages in an engaging manner. A puppet show featuring two characters was also presented to demonstrate the impact of violence and make the subject more accessible to the audience.

Students were encouraged not to remain silent in the face of harassment, discrimination or violence. The programme stressed that creating a safer society begins with individual awareness, responsible intervention and a willingness to stand up against disrespect and injustice.

The event concluded with students taking an oath against violence, pledging to respect others, uphold equality, oppose violence and contribute towards building a safer and more harmonious society.

The programme served as a powerful call to action, leaving students with a clear message that respect, consent, empathy and accountability must become part of everyday life to create a genuinely violence-free world.

The event was coordinated by Dr.K.K. Ramachandran, Vice Principal and Director,GRD School of Commerce & International Business and GRD Institute of Management, Dr. G.R.D. College of Science.