Peace Through Art, Climate Action, and Youth Leadership: HWPL’s Global Impact in Pakistan, New Zealand, and Rwanda
Pakistan: Painting the Dream of Peace
On September 13, 2024, more than 100 students and educators gathered at the Government College for Civil Servants in Faisalabad, Pakistan, for the 1st Peace Art Competition. Organized by HWPL, IPYG, and the System Foundation, the event invited youth to express their vision for world peace through art.
The competition coincided with the graduation ceremony of the Youth Empowerment Peace Class (YEPC), where participants had previously completed courses on “Youth Power” and “Media Literacy.” What began as a peace education program evolved into an artistic platform for expressing unity, hope, and nonviolence.
“The students' artwork reflects a deep understanding of peace and its importance,” said Muhammad Masood, Executive Director of the System Foundation. “This event is a milestone on our journey to peacebuilding, and we will continue to support youth-led initiatives that promote a culture of peace.”
The competition drew strong local media attention, with eight news outlets reporting on the event. Inspired by the success, organizers are now planning a “Peace Video Contest” to further amplify youth voices through creative expression.
New Zealand: Climate Action for Peace
One day before the art competition, HWPL’s Global Division 6 hosted an online “Climate Action Code of Conduct” seminar on September 12, 2024. Nine panelists—including environmentalists, youth leaders, and civil society members from New Zealand—came together to explore how nations and individuals can respond to the global climate crisis.
For island nations in the Pacific, climate change is an existential threat. Rising ocean temperatures are endangering marine ecosystems, fisheries, and local livelihoods. Participants emphasized the urgent need for action, particularly for the sake of children and future generations.
The seminar sparked a vibrant exchange of ideas and personal commitments. Attendees expressed gratitude to HWPL for facilitating the dialogue and emphasized that the climate crisis is inseparable from peace and human rights. Through collective awareness and collaboration, they hope to influence policy and inspire sustainable change.
Rwanda: Remembering the Past, Building the Future
In Rwanda, HWPL's partner organization—the Rwanda Youth Organizations Forum (RYOF)—is mobilizing young people for peace in the wake of a painful history. Established in 2018, RYOF unites 34 civil society and community groups across the country. Its mission includes promoting youth development, gender equality, economic self-reliance, and post-genocide reconciliation.
After forming a partnership with IPYG in 2023, RYOF co-hosted a major peace walk in May 2024, commemorating the 11th anniversary of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). Held under the theme “Rwandan Youth Against Genocide”, the event encouraged youth to take a stand for peace and reflect on the lessons of the 1994 genocide.
“Let us walk hand in hand and create a better world for today and future generations,” said RYOF Chief Secretary Mutangana Kabera. “From Rwanda’s painful history, we have learned that youth unity is essential for building lasting peace.”
One Voice, One Dream
From the classrooms of Pakistan to the shores of New Zealand and the communities of Rwanda, HWPL and IPYG are helping youth envision and realize a world without war. Whether through a child’s drawing, an online seminar, or a peace walk, these efforts prove that peace is not just a goal—it’s a movement powered by the dreams and voices of young people.
Source: https://vo.la/dDHeRQ
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