Lillian Skjold Rafoss

For Lillian Skjord Rafoss, life as a folk high school teacher is about building a society characterized by warmth and community.

She lives by the Church City Mission's slogan: No one is just what you see.

Adventurous
Despite being a qualified teacher, Lillian let her sense of adventure take her away from the classroom. She packed her bags and traveled to New Orleans to work as a hostess at the Seamen's Church. The tasks ranged from church coffee to events and practical tasks, but the common denominator was always meeting people.
– It could be people who came with their problems, or people who wanted to drink coffee and chat about life. Being able to be curious about people through the coffee cup – it's lovely.

After three years at the Seamen's Church in New Orleans and two years in Stockholm, she returned to Norway, where she came to Rønningen and was given responsibility for the Social Engagement program – a program where students worked with everything from child welfare and elderly care to refugees, substance abuse and volunteering.
– I am passionate about ensuring that the society we live in is characterized by commitment, consideration and understanding.

For Lillian, commitment boils down to one thing: making the world a little less cold.

– We may not be able to create an ideal world, but I believe that if we are going to create a society with more introversion, we have to start small. It boils down to the fact that we all want to be seen, liked and have a friend.

Empower

Today she teaches the Empower course, which she describes as a continuation of Social Engagement – now with training, mindfulness and yoga on the schedule. The goal is not the training itself.

– It's about endorphins, and finding the little moments of happiness and balance.

Lillian believes that physical activity and mental health are closely linked.

– It's about looking inward first. By empowering yourself, you can make a difference for others. And we know that doing something for others is also good for your own mental health.

Folk high school as a contingency
Lillian wants to help young people become strong and confident, equipped for life.

At the same time, she believes that folk high schools are more than personal development – they are also a social project.

– It is important for preparedness to have good citizens who care about more than themselves, who know that they are part of a community, and that we are stronger than just me.