Youth in Action: How IPYG Is Growing a Global Culture of Peace

In an age of rising conflict and climate uncertainty, a wave of young leaders is rewriting the narrative — one tree, one clean street, and one empowered voice at a time. The International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), a youth organization under HWPL, is proving that peace is not just an abstract goal — it’s something that can be lived, planted, and taught.

Through environmental service in the UK, reforestation in the Philippines, leadership programs in the U.S., and international peace education in India, IPYG youth are showing the world what real peacebuilding looks like.

Cleaning the Streets, Honoring Culture — UK Songkran Festival

On April 14, 2024, IPYG UK joined the Songkran Festival at the Buddhapadipa Temple in London, a traditional Thai New Year celebration. Amid colorful rituals and cultural performances, IPYG volunteers in signature blue vests led a community-wide cleanup effort — ensuring a welcoming, trash-free space for thousands of attendees.

By arriving early to pick up litter and guiding visitors on proper waste disposal, the youth volunteers supported both the temple and the local Thai community. Their action reflected not only environmental responsibility but also deep cultural respect and a commitment to peace through service.

“It was a meaningful experience,” said Mohammad Usman, a youth volunteer. “Learning about Thai culture while contributing to a cleaner environment was truly fulfilling.”

One Thousand Trees for the Future — Philippines Reforestation Campaign

On March 9, IPYG Mindanao and local partners hosted the 4th ‘Mangrove Tree Bank’ event in Cotabato City. Youth from various peace and environmental groups gathered to plant over 1,000 mangrove propagules, supporting biodiversity and protecting the region’s coastlines from climate threats.

The effort was part of a long-term plan to establish a sustainable “tree bank” — a living commitment to ecological stewardship and peace. Partner groups expressed gratitude for IPYG’s consistent engagement and encouraged continued collaboration to protect natural ecosystems.

Peace Education for At-Risk Youth — United States Leadership Academy

In Georgia, USA, HWPL and local partners launched a pilot program for at-risk youth called the Peace Leadership Academy for Youth (PLAY) on April 6, 2024. Hosted at the YMCA in DeKalb County, the session introduced peace education through music and art, emphasizing themes like diversity and cooperation.

The program was developed after local leaders attended HWPL’s 9.18 World Peace Summit and committed to spreading peace in their communities. The results were promising — students began shy but gradually opened up, smiling and engaging creatively by the end.

“Youth need peace education,” said Jason Aldridge, a partner facilitator. “This is about showing them a better way forward.”

From India to the World — Seed Foundation & Global Peace Ambassadors

In Southern India, IPYG’s partner Seed Foundation has been empowering students and young leaders through peace summits, environmental campaigns, and educational outreach. By collaborating with diplomats and religious leaders, they are promoting interfaith understanding and sustainability.

Programs include:

• Planting initiatives with symbolic peace pledges

• Education support for vulnerable children

• Interreligious harmony sessions

• International workshops on peace, conflict resolution, and global citizenship

Through the IPYG Peace Ambassador Program, students and young professionals are trained to lead peace efforts in their schools and communities. It’s a platform for youth to become the change they wish to see.

“Youth are the architects of tomorrow,” said Seed Foundation’s director. “Your vision and action can make peace not just a hope, but a reality.”

Why It Matters

Whether cleaning up after festivals, restoring ecosystems, or reshaping the future of at-risk youth, IPYG members are cultivating a world where peace is practical — and contagious.

Because when youth lead, the world listens.
When they act, change follows.
And when they unite — We Are One.

Source: https://rb.gy/my52rb