Death Cafe
Maria Mariotti
We welcome and invite people from all ages, walks of life, religions, ethnicity to participate and discuss together about the impermanence of this existence and the duality of this manifestation. There is no life without death and no death without life, and a lot of beauty, depth and understanding can emerge from accepting death as a natural part of life. The Death Cafe model has spread quickly across Europe, North America and Australasia with the objective ‘to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives’. A Death Cafe is a group directed discussion of death with no agenda, objectives or themes. It is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counselling session. Death Cafes are always offered: – On a not for profit basis – In an accessible, respectful and confidential space – With no intention of leading people to any conclusion, product or or course of action – Alongside refreshing drinks and nourishing food – and cake!
Maria is the project manager and community liaison for Honohono Tātou Katoa, an initiative aimed at creating and fostering Compassionate Communities in Tāmaki Makaurau. With an eclectic background as an engineer, entrepreneur, nature educator, yoga and mindfulness teacher, event organizer, and proud mother of three, Maria’s true passion lies in transforming meaningful and impactful ideas into reality. Having experienced the loss of her parents at a young age, Maria views Death as her most profound teacher and companion in life.
