We publish thought leadership articles that explore trauma, leadership, and systemic change across personal, community, and organizational contexts. Grounded in the Alchemus Prime Diamond Model, our work examines how trauma—often invisible and unaddressed—shapes behavior, relationships, and organizational culture. From social patterns in the Pacific to workplace dynamics, these articles offer both critical reflection and practical tools toward healing, inclusion, and transformation.
The Elephant in the Room: Trauma in the Pacific
The first article, The Elephant in the Room: Trauma in the Pacific, explores trauma as a root cause of many of the region’s most pressing social challenges, including violence, inequality, and fractured relationships. It was published by Pacific Islands Report’s Visions and Voices periodical. Marilyn also participated in a talk story about this work. Drawing on both research and lived experience, this piece highlights how patriarchal, colonial, and capitalist conditioning perpetuate cycles of abuse across generations. It calls for a more inclusive approach to trauma healing—one that recognizes the experiences of women, men, and non-binary people alike—and emphasizes the urgent need to integrate trauma-informed practices into Pacific development efforts. Naming trauma as the “elephant in the room,” this article invites leaders, practitioners, and communities to confront unspoken patterns, and to co-create pathways toward collective healing and resilience.
Toxic Workplaces: A Barrier to Pacific Development
The second article, Toxic Workplaces: A Barrier to Pacific Development (self-published) shifts the focus to professional environments. It examines how unresolved trauma manifests within organizations and undermines institutional effectiveness. It outlines the defining characteristics of toxic workplace cultures— bullying, undermining, and lack of psychological safety—and connects these patterns to deeper social and personal histories of trauma. Through real-world examples and a practical framework, this article demonstrates how toxic workplaces function as microcosms of past pain, reinforced by systems like patriarchy and colonialism. It also offers solutions, including trauma-informed coaching, and team dynamics interventions. With consistent effort, it is possible to foster healthier, more innovative, and people-centered workplaces across the Pacific.