code of conduct

how we move at rionce

updated: june 2025

this guide applies to anyone engaging with the rionce community. whether you're attending an event, booking a studio, joining a membership, or simply spending time with us – this is how we move.

rionce is more than a creative space. it’s a reflection of the world we want to build: thoughtful, expressive, layered, kind.

we are rooted in truth, love, accountability and open-mindedness. you don’t have to agree with everyone. you don’t have to change your beliefs. you just have to move with intention, stay emotionally mature, and take responsibility for your impact – even when it’s unintentional.

1. truth, love, accountability, open-mindedness

we live by these four. you don’t have to be perfect. no one here is. what matters is showing up honestly, with care and self-awareness. disagreement or ignorance isn’t shameful. it’s a chance to learn something new. take ownership when needed. give others space to do the same.

2. disagreement is not disrespect

you can have your views. what’s not welcome is behaviour or language that tears others down, mocks or dismisses them. especially around topics like race, gender, sexuality, transness, class, religion, neurodivergence or ability. not sure if something crosses the line? ask. or pause.

3. pronouns and personal identity

some people will share their pronouns. others will not want to share them or engage with pronouns at all. both are valid.

example: someone might say, “hi, i’m alex – i use they/them.”

you can:

  • use those pronouns if you feel comfortable

  • or simply use their name and avoid gendered language

if you get it wrong, correct yourself briefly and keep it moving. no shame. no big scene.

you don’t have to lie, pretend or perform. just be respectful.

if using pronouns doesn’t feel right for you, you're welcome to say:

  • “i’d rather not engage in pronouns personally”

  • “i respect that, but i prefer not to use pronouns”

same goes for other sensitive topics. if you're not comfortable sharing or discussing something, you can say:

  • “i wish not to partake in this convo”

  • “i don’t know enough about this”

  • “i’d rather not get involved in this topic right now”

that’s emotional maturity. and we value it.

4. don’t enforce. don’t assume.

you don’t need to convince anyone to live like you. you don’t need to explain yourself either. just respect people’s right to live how they want – and ask for the same in return.

5. inclusion without control

this is a fully inclusive space – but not a controlled one.

you’re welcome here as you are.

but if your words or actions repeatedly cause harm – and we can’t stand behind the impact that harm is having – we may ask you to leave.

this includes behaviour in person, online, creatively, or in any communication.

we give second chances – but not endless ones.

6. speak up early. don’t sweep things under.

conflicts and unsaid problems (whether personal, professional or otherwise) create unnecessary tension. say things clearly. directly. early. that’s when it’s easiest to fix.

you might say:

“you know what – i’m not sure if you meant it like that, but this is how it made me feel. just wanted to be straight with you because our bond matters to me.”

face-to-face is best.

if not, facetime or voicenote – it helps you hear tone and see expression.

avoid texting for serious stuff – it gets misread.

journal first if you need to clear your head.

we’re not here for drama. we’re here for solutions.

don’t distract yourself. you’re here to build.

7. boundaries are beautiful

you don’t have to answer every question or join every conversation.

you do need to communicate clearly and with care.

if something isn’t for you – just say.

you’re grown. so are we.

8. banter welcome. always.

this is not a stiff space. we laugh here – a lot.

banter is part of the culture – but use your emotional intelligence.

if it doesn’t land, own it and adjust.

it’s only funny if everyone’s laughing.

9. health and shared space

we keep the space clean and do our best to maintain a safe and welcoming environment. but this is real life, not a sterile bubble.

if you’re feeling unwell or anxious about being in the space, message us. we’ll be honest.

if it’s life-or-death serious, this may not be the right environment for you. and that’s okay.

10. how we handle ourselves – especially when things get difficult

how we show up here is how we’ll show up elsewhere.

most of the challenges we face are internal – fear, avoidance, old coping systems.

this is a space to rebuild honestly. to grow in self-awareness.

how we move in our personal lives leaks into our work. this is where it starts.

11. mindset – the 3 rules at rionce

  • no disrespect

  • no self-deprecation

  • put things back where you find them in the studio

that’s it.

summary:

this isn’t a space for perfection.

this is a space for presence.

a space for truth, love, accountability and grace.

we build something real here – from the inside out.

and if that’s what you’re on, this is your place.