Two weeks ago I had the honour to be part of the Wellington event “Raising Cult Awareness”, hosted by the Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers. After screening the DECULT VOICES documentary (scroll down for more), Lindy Jacomb from the Olive Leaf Network gave a talk about the hallmarks of cults and her support work for leavers, followed by many insightful questions. The Chief Victim Advisor and a team from the Children’s Commissioner joined us – and as a surprise guest, human rights advocate Andre Afamasaga who was our MC at Decult 2024.
This connecting kōrero was a big encouragement for us to share our mahi with more stakeholders and communities. If you’d like Lindy and myself to speak at your event or organisation too, please get in touch.
JOIN US ON STAGE AT DECULT 2026!
After the sold-out success of Decult 2024, our live-streamed conference returns bigger and bolder at Christchurch Town Hall from 24 – 25 October 2026.
We’re now inviting proposals from former cult members, researchers, authors, activists, performers, educators and others with lived experience or professional insight. We welcome diverse, thought-provoking contributions with a focus on human rights, mental health and survivor advocacy – more storytelling and calls to action than dry academia.
There will be around 20 sessions across two streams, with some preference for Australia and New Zealand presenters. With the potential for an expanded online programme running “round the clock & round the world”, we also encourage proposals from North America, Europe and beyond.
Formats include panels, individual talks (ideally with visuals), and the much-loved Cult Survivor Story Jam – the highlight of 2024. For more inspiration, check out previous sessions on Decult Talks.
Many 2024 speakers had never gone public before and told us that the experience was life-changing and empowering. If you’re ready to step forward, we’d love to hear from you. Your story matters!
AUCKLAND WEEKEND FOR SURVIVORS
Join the Olive Leaf Network for an empowering, healing and super affordable weekend in Auckland with former members of high-demand groups from across New Zealand and Australia from 14 – 16 November.
Over the weekend, you will explore:
- How coercive groups operate
- Thought reform and strategies to resist it
- Rebuilding critical thinking and healthy boundaries
- Understanding trauma and the brain
- Grief, loss and identity after leaving
- Using somatic and art therapies for healing
Meet the facilitators:
Tore Klevjer, president of Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS) Australia and a former member of the Children of God, will share his lived experience and expertise in cult recovery.
Poia Alpha, a former Branch Davidian member, will be available for gentle therapeutic support, offering understanding of the unique trauma and grief of leaving high-demand groups.
Lindy Jacomb, founder of the Olive Leaf Network and former Exclusive Brethren (PBCC), will bring her experience supporting cult leavers across New Zealand.
For more information or to register your interest, check their website or email [email protected].
DECULT DOCUMENTARY DROPS SOON
Not long now: Stay tuned for the full release of our long-awaited documentary DECULT VOICES: BEYOND BELIEF – sneak peak in the trailer. We’ll be back for the international online premiere on 13 October. Get the popcorn (and tissues) ready and have a viewing party with your peers, friends or colleagues!
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Thank you so much!
Anke Richter