The Space Between explores what becomes possible when curiosity, listening and awareness take the place of assumption and division.
Every cross-cultural encounter offers a choice: to build a bridge or a barrier. The Space Between explores how genuine connection grows when we listen deeply, stay curious and allow ourselves to be changed by what we learn.
Shaped by Dr José van den Akker's years of teaching, research and work across diverse communities, this this short, concise book offers an accessible overview of her research rather than a full academic monograph. It moves beyond doctoral theory to the real story at the heart of all cross-cultural engagement: people, with their fears, hopes and longing to connect.
Practical, reflective and written in clear, everyday language, it presents usable ideas without academic jargon. Thoughtful and quietly transformative, it is an invitation to see beyond difference and notice the threads of humanity that bind us all.
PRAISE FOR DR VAN DEN AKKER
Born and raised in The Netherlands and having lived in Australia as a spiritually attuned migrant for more than 30 years, José is deeply committed to helping you to restore balance of body, mind, and spirit, connecting you as a spiritual being at the centre of 'your cross'. She is a commended art therapist and author of both academic, spiritual books and journal articles.
José holds a PhD in cross-cultural education, a Master's in Education Studies, an Advanced Diploma in Transpersonal Art Therapy, and completed a Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship. She had 18 years of tertiary education and over 25 years of experience facilitating learning processes of people from all walks of life, specialising in people's personal development, expression and communication skills. Her sound knowledge of therapeutic work plus her ability to connect with people's state of wellbeing deeply and intuitively ensures her clients' success.
