Lutte Classes for beginners are held every Saturday at the Peace of Art center, led by the experienced instructor, Mr. Hussein Khalil. These classes are designed to provide newcomers with a solid foundation in the techniques and principles of Lutte, promoting both physical fitness and personal development. Join us to learn in a supportive environment where you can gain confidence and skills, making each Saturday a step towards mastering this dynamic art.

On Friday, December 1, 2018, Peace of Art civil trainers Omar Yehya and Amira Cheaib participated in a training session organized by Search for Common Ground. This training focused on conflict resolution strategies and was part of the initiative titled "Let's Sit & Talk." The event took place at Chtaura Park Hotel, where participants engaged in meaningful discussions and activities aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding in conflict-prone areas. Such training is essential for equipping civil society leaders with the skills necessary to navigate and resolve conflicts, ultimately contributing to a more peaceful and cohesive community.

At Peace of Art, we empower youth in North Bekaa to become active agents of peace, inclusion, and social change through arts-based programs and civic engagement. By focusing on capacity building, human rights awareness, and creative expression, we aim to combat discrimination and promote a culture of acceptance. Our initiatives align with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including quality education, gender equality, and reduced inequalities. Through safe spaces, peace education, and community collaboration, we foster youth leadership and build a more cohesive, just, and empowered society.

Discover the joy of music and learn to play the guitar with expert musician Chady Hijazi at our Peace of Art (PoA) center. Every Sunday, aspiring guitarists of all skill levels are invited to enhance their musical talents in a nurturing and supportive environment.

On April 16, 2025, Ms. Celine Moyrod, Country Director of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), visited the Peace of Art (PoA) center. During her visit, she engaged with Mr. Mahdi Yahya, the founder of PoA, and Ms. Vera Mawla, the president of the organization. The discussions centered on exploring various avenues for future collaboration aimed at fostering sustainable development.

Watch the enlightening interview featuring Mr. Mahdi Yahya, the founder of the Peace of Art organization, on NBN Channel. In this engaging conversation, Mr. Yahya shares his vision for promoting peace through art and the transformative impact it has on communities.

Members of Peace of Art (PoA) and local stakeholders from North Bekaa are actively collaborating to prevent and manage conflicts, positioning themselves as agents of change for social stability in their communities. They are currently participating in the Mechanism for Social Stability (MSS) retreat in Zahleh. This retreat includes workshops organized by the UNDP Lebanon Host Communities Support, aimed at equipping attendees with essential skills and strategies to foster peace.

On Saturday, March 24, 2018, Matrix FM 103.5 hosted an enlightening interview with Dr. Mehdi Yehya, the founder of "Peace of Art" Academy. During the conversation, Dr. Yehya highlighted the organization's vital role in promoting artistic and cultural development in the Al Beqaa region. He shared insights on the Academy's future projects aimed at fostering creativity and cultural exchange.

On March 27, 2018, in celebration of International Theater Day, Peace of Art undertook an inspiring project by converting an old room into a vibrant small theater. This initiative aims to foster a love for the performing arts among communities in the North Beqaa region. By creating this space, we are committed to encouraging local artists and theater enthusiasts to continue their artistic pursuits and to establish new theatrical performances in the near future. We believe that the arts play a crucial role in promoting cultural expression and community engagement. Through our efforts, we aspire to inspire creativity and provide a nurturing environment for talent to thrive. Join us in this transformative journey as we cultivate the arts in our community and uplift those who share a passion for theater. Together, we can ensure that the vibrant spirit of performance art continues to be celebrated and embraced.

On Monday, March 26, board members of Peace of Art participated in the PISCCA program organized by the French Embassy in Beirut. This initiative offered training sessions aimed at enhancing the skills of employees and volunteers within Lebanese NGOs. The workshops, conducted in English, addressed a variety of compelling subjects relevant to nonprofit growth and development.

On March 29-30, 2018, Peace of Art participated in the "Alkhilwa" program, organized by the Institute for Women's Studies in the Arab World at the Lebanese American University. This gathering facilitated critical discussions on the role of organizations in the context of women's rights, emphasizing the significance of women's political participation.

On Thursday, April 26, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) made a significant contribution to Peace of Art by donating a selection of musical instruments. This generous gift aims to support vulnerable children in our community who have limited access to such resources.

In a world where discrimination persists, the "Art Against Discrimination" initiative by Peace of Art serves as a beacon of hope. Founded by Dr. Mahdi Yahya, our organization is dedicated to using art as a powerful tool for social change and unity.This initiative actively engages artists and communities in creating works that challenge prejudice and promote empathy. By harnessing the transformative power of art, we aim to raise awareness about various forms of discrimination while fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse groups.Through exhibitions, workshops, and collaborative projects, we not only celebrate artistic expression but also empower marginalized voices. The "Art Against Discrimination" initiative invites everyone to partake in this vital conversation, reminding us that art transcends boundaries and builds bridges across cultures. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world, making art a driving force for change.Join us in this journey to combat discrimination and amplify the message of peace through creativity. Full article on EED Website.

In April 2018, Mr. Mahdi Yahya, the founder of Peace of Art, visited the headquarters of "Action Against Hunger," a renowned international organization. This visit occurred during the MENA Leadership Academy in Madrid, Spain, organized by the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung. The purpose of the visit was to deepen his understanding of the role civil society organizations play in fostering democratic values and to gain insights into effective project management within NGOs.

On Saturday, April 28, 2018, the Peace of Art band graced the stage with live performances during a poetry evening organized by Modern International School and Saabt Baalbeck Al Thaqafi. This event commemorated the twentieth anniversary of the passing of renowned Arab poet Nizar Qabbani.

On May 1, 2018, musicians from Peace of Art (PoA) provided uplifting music during the inaugural session of the Regional Conference titled "Financing Education 2030." This significant event was held at the "Le Commodor" hotel and was honored by the presence of His Excellency, the Minister of Education, Mr. Marwan Hmeda.

In an enlightening interview on Fame FM, Mr. Mahdi Yahya, founder of Peace of Art, shared insights into the organization’s significant role in enhancing cultural and artistic expressions. Interviewer Sharbel Saadé engaged Mr. Yahya in a discussion about the organization's mission and its contributions to local communities.

On May 14, 2018, Peace of Art was honored to participate in the opening of the Fourth Book Fair, organized by the Modern International School in partnership with "Book Post" and under the esteemed patronage of interviewer Zahi Wahbi. This vibrant event celebrated the love of literature and fostered a strong community spirit.

On Friday, April 5, 2018, Peace of Art successfully organized the "Art and Heritage" festival at Hayakel Baalbek Hall, attended by over 500 guests from the Baalbeck Hermel region. The evening began with a captivating performance by the PoA band, showcasing traditional music that resonated with the audience. Following the musical interlude, a talented group of dancers took the stage to perform Dabke, a beloved traditional dance that embodies the spirit of our heritage.

On May 17, 2018, during International Heritage Day, the Peace of Art (PoA) band performed at the iconic Venus Temple in Baalbeck. This celebration was made possible through a fruitful collaboration with the Safe Side organization and under the esteemed patronage of the Ministry of Culture - Directorate of Antiquities. The event showcased a series of traditional musical performances, highlighting the deep connection of the Lebanese people to their rich heritage.

From May 21 to May 27, 2018, Peace of Art proudly hosted renowned Irish guitarist Dan Whelan as part of our International Exchange Program for Musicians. This initiative aims to strengthen cultural ties between our center and European Union countries.

In May 2018, the PoA Centre proudly recognized the exceptional talent of three young musicians through our video competition. The event highlighted the remarkable skills of aspiring artists and their dedication to music.

On Thursday, June 14, 2018, members of Peace of Art participated in a training camp organized by Université Saint Joseph (USJ) under the program "Operation 7éme Jour" held in Taanayel. This event brought together local and international NGOs dedicated to fostering community development and peace.

On Saturday, June 23, 2018, Peace of Art captivated a large audience at the Fête de la Musique, a vibrant music festival organized by L'Institut Français in Tyre. This annual event is dedicated to promoting Lebanon's stunning tourist destinations and cultural heritage.

On Saturday, June 23, 2018, the Peace of Art (PoA) band participated in the Fête de la Musique in Sidon, organized by L’Institut Français. This vibrant music festival aimed to promote cultural tourism in Sidon, showcasing the city's rich artistic heritage.

Peace of Art's band recently took part in the vibrant cultural festival organized by "Motada Al Fan wal Thakafa" in Hermel. This event served as a platform to challenge stereotypes associated with the Hermel region and promote the flourishing artistic and cultural talents of the youth in Beqaa.

At Peace of Art, we believe in the transformative power of youth as catalysts for change and future leaders. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where Lebanese youth can develop their capacities, connect with peers, and enhance their skills.

Ms. Vera Mawla, President of Peace of Art, actively participated in the "Youth Leaders of Civil Society" program held in the Middle East and North Africa. This initiative, organized by the Cairo Center for Human Rights Studies and Norwegian People Aid, took place from September 1 to September 15.

On Sunday, February 9, 2018, the Peace of Art band delivered a captivating performance at the Baalbeck International Symposium, organized in collaboration with the Baalbeck Union of Municipalities. The event took place at the Palmera Hotel and featured the participation of over 36 international sculptors.

The Peace of Art NGO team was selected to participate in "Visualize 2030," a unique data camp focused on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Arab region. This initiative, organized by the Arab Development Portal and UNDP, emphasizes community engagement and capacity building. By enhancing our advocacy efforts, we aim to promote human rights and sustainable development, ultimately increasing our social impact within the community. This collaboration will strengthen our commitment to achieving the SDGs and fostering a resilient future.

On September 9, 2018, Peace of Art hosted a significant event attended by over 500 individuals, including key stakeholders from the Baalbeck-Hermel region, to commemorate the conclusion of the "Art Against Discrimination" initiative, funded by the European Endowment for Democracy.

Mr. Mahdi Yahya attended a press conference organized by the European Endowment for Democracy in Brussels, Belgium, coinciding with the International Day of Democracy. Mr. Yahya delivered a speech advocating for the "Peace of Art" project, emphasizing its role in promoting democratic values and fostering youth inclusion. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement, advance human rights, and contribute to sustainable development through effective advocacy and social impact.

On September 21, 2018, the Abaad Organization concluded a collaborative program with Peace of Art aimed at training youth on gender equality. Participants developed a play highlighting the realities of gender equality issues in the North Beqaa region. The event culminated with the National Educational Scout in Labwa receiving musical instruments, attended by Dr. Mehdi Yehya, founder of Peace of Art, and Mrs. Bissane Soukarieh, representative of Abaad. This initiative exemplifies community engagement and capacity building in the context of human rights and sustainable development, fostering social impact through advocacy.

On September 18, 2018, Peace of Art members participated in an "Advocacy Campaign" training organized by Lebanese-American University (LAU). This training focused on advocacy campaign management and strategic planning, equipping participants with essential tools for community engagement and capacity building. By enhancing skills in advocacy, attendees strengthened their commitment to promoting human rights and driving social impact within their communities, contributing to sustainable development initiatives.

On Thursday, October 11th, 2018, Miss Vera Al Mawla, President of the Peace of Art organization, was interviewed on Sawt Lobnan radio (93.3). During the discussion, she highlighted the organization’s future projects, emphasizing their commitment to capacity building and community engagement. Miss Mawla detailed the role of the music academy in fostering youth development in the region, illustrating its impact on personal growth and social cohesion. Through these initiatives, the organization aims to promote human rights and sustainable development, reinforcing their advocacy for meaningful social impact in the community.

On Friday, October 10, 2018, members of Peace of Art engaged in a crucial training session entitled "Writing Proposals and Problem Analysis," hosted by the Institute of Women's Studies at the Lebanese American University (LAU). This program aimed to strengthen community engagement and capacity building among participants, equipping them with essential skills in advocacy and proposal development. By enhancing our understanding of human rights and social impact, this training aligns with our mission to promote sustainable development and empower marginalized communities through effective communication and strategic planning.

On October 20, 2018, Peace of Art Organization successfully hosted a complimentary Robotics workshop at its center in Al Fakiha. This initiative aimed to foster community engagement by satisfying students' curiosity in the field of robotics while simultaneously promoting capacity building and skill development. By providing this educational opportunity, the organization supports sustainable development and advocates for human rights through enhanced learning experiences. The workshop not only empowered participants with analytical skills but also contributed to a significant social impact within the community, demonstrating the importance of accessible education in shaping future leaders.

Al-Ramlieh, October 19, 2018 - Members of Peace of Art participated in a three-day training camp organized by DELTA Association. This impactful event aimed to enhance participants' communication and social skills, fostering community engagement and capacity building. By equipping individuals with essential tools, the camp contributed to promoting human rights and sustainable development within the community. Through advocacy and skills development, it aimed to generate a positive social impact, empowering participants to become active agents of change in their respective environments.

Mr. Mahdi Yahya, founder of Peace of Art, recently participated in the MENA Leadership Program organized by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) in Tunisia. During this esteemed event, he presented a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing Peace of Art's capacity for community engagement and advocacy in the realm of human rights. This initiative focuses on fostering sustainable development through innovative projects that amplify social impact. By leveraging collective insights from the program, Mr. Yahya is dedicated to elevating Peace of Art's mission, ultimately contributing to the empowerment of communities across the region.

On November 1, 2018, Vera Mawla, President of Peace of Art, participated in a pivotal discussion organized by the Institute of Women Studies in the Arab World (IWSAW) aimed at fostering leadership among young women at the Lebanese American University (LAU) in Beirut. The panel, titled "Breaking Down Barriers: Women and Political Participation," featured distinguished panelists, including MP Ms. Paula Yacoubian, author and activist Ms. Joumana Haddad, and Dr. Joumana Merhy, Director of the Arab Institute for Human Rights in Lebanon. Human rights activist and lawyer Manar Zaiter moderated the session, which was held in collaboration with the LAU Human Rights Club as part of the "Equality for Everyone: Gender Reform from Grassroots to Government" project. This initiative emphasizes community engagement, capacity building, and advocacy for gender equality and sustainable development, ultimately seeking to enhance social impact and uphold human rights.

Members of Peace of Art engaged in the "Visualize 2030" training camp, organized by the Arab Development Portal under the United Nations initiative. This program brought together 50 youth from 13 Arab countries for five days in Beirut, fostering community engagement and capacity building. Participants developed data-driven visual products that articulate their visions for the region's future by 2030, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development and human rights. The camp aimed to enhance advocacy efforts and amplify social impact by empowering young leaders to contribute meaningfully to discussions surrounding the region's trajectory.

In alignment with our commitment to fostering a more inclusive society, we recognize the vital role individuals with special needs play within our community. To facilitate their integration into civil society, we have initiated free music classes at our center. This program aims to empower participants through the expressive medium of art and music, thereby promoting their rights and enhancing their social impact. By investing in capacity building and advocacy for individuals with special needs, we contribute to sustainable development and ensure that every voice is heard and valued.

In a recent interview on TL (Tele Liban) TV, Mr. Mahdi Yahya discussed the significant role of the organization in fostering community engagement and promoting sustainable development. He emphasized the importance of capacity building initiatives that enhance local capacities and advocate for human rights. Mr. Yahya outlined how the organization’s various activities contribute to social impact, ultimately working to empower individuals within the community. The discussion highlighted the necessity of ongoing advocacy efforts to ensure that the voices of marginalized groups are heard and prioritized in development agendas.

On November 23, 2018, Peace of Art marked the 75th Lebanese Independence Day with a community event in Ras Baalbeck, organized by the local high school. The gathering was attended by Colonel Ali Akil, educational staff, and high school students, reinforcing our commitment to community engagement and social impact. The ceremony commenced with the POA band performing the Lebanese national anthem. High school director Mr. Ziad Nassif delivered a speech emphasizing the vital role of the Lebanese Army, followed by an address from Priest Pere Ibrahim Naamo, who highlighted the importance of preserving Lebanese independence. The event culminated with a musical performance by the POA band and a folkloric dance by the Al-Khayyal ensemble, celebrating our cultural heritage and fostering unity among participants. This event underscores the significance of advocacy and capacity building for sustainable development in Lebanon.

On Sunday, November 25, 2018, the Peace of Art organization welcomed a group of volunteers from the DELTA association as part of the "CHIPS" program, aimed at raising awareness among youth about the dangers of drug use. Funded by the Lebanese Ministry of Social Affairs, the event offered a day filled with recreational and educational activities at the Peace of Art center. The day commenced with a welcome song performed by the PoA band, followed by speeches from the founder, Mr. Mahdi Yahya, and Mrs. Eva Dbouk. The focus on mural painting highlighted the role of art in preventing social deviation among youth. The event concluded with a folkloric dance by the Al Khayal Band, marking a significant step toward building community engagement and advocating for youth awareness around pressing social issues through creative expression.

Members of Peace of Art actively participated in the "Snap for Human Rights" photo competition organized by the European Union in Lebanon. Notably, one of our photos was selected as a finalist alongside nine other distinguished entries and was showcased at the Antwork exhibition in Beirut on December 10, 2018. These impactful photographs were produced by our students as part of the "Art Against Discrimination" project, which is implemented by Peace of Art and supported by the European Endowment for Democracy. This initiative exemplifies our commitment to community engagement, capacity building, and advocacy for human rights, fostering social impact and sustainable development.

The Peace of Art band performed at an event organized by Abaad and Creadel under the patronage of Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Ghazi Zaayter, in honor of the International Day of Rural Women. The event, titled "The Rural Woman and Her Role in Sustainable Development and Family Welfare: Perspectives and Challenges," took place at the Social and Cultural Centre in Dar Al Imam Al-Fakiha. Peace of Art Association recognizes the critical contributions of women across social, economic, and political spheres. This initiative is integral to advancing women's rights and promoting community engagement, capacity building, and sustainable development.

Miss Vera Mawla, President of Peace of Art, recently traveled to Morocco to participate in the Youth Forum in the Arab Region. This event, organized by UNFPA and the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Morocco and the Mediterranean Forum for Youth - Morocco (FOMEJE), focuses on establishing a progressive youth agenda that fosters peace and development in Arab states. By connecting young leaders with ministries and decision-makers, the forum aims to enhance community engagement, promote capacity building, and advocate for human rights and social impact across the region.

On December 23, 2018, Peace of Art inaugurated the resto-pub "Tarras" in Al-Ain, accompanied by enchanting oriental melodies. The event was attended by approximately 50 local community members, highlighting our commitment to community engagement and capacity building. This initiative aligns with our advocacy for human rights and sustainable development in the Al-Bekaa region. By supporting such projects, we aim to enhance the social impact in northern Bekaa, fostering a positive narrative and improving the region's economic conditions. Through collaborative efforts, we strive to promote a vibrant community and sustainable future for all.

The Social and Cultural Committee in the Al-Ain region has launched a series of free drawing workshops at the Peace of Art Center, aimed at youth aged 14 to 25. This initiative, spanning three months, is organized by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs, Al-Ain Municipality, and the Permanent Peace Movement NGO, with funding from the United Kingdom. Titled “Mechanism of Social Stability,” the workshops focus on community engagement and capacity building, supporting the development of hosting Lebanese communities while promoting human rights, sustainable development, and social impact.

The Social and Cultural Committee in the Al-Ain region has successfully organized a series of free photography workshops at the Peace of Art Center, targeting youth aged 14 to 25. This initiative, conducted over three months, is a collaborative effort involving the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Ministry of Social Affairs, in partnership with Al-Ain Municipality and the Permanent Peace Movement NGO. Funded by the United Kingdom, this program, titled "Mechanism of Social Stability," aims to enhance community engagement and capacity building while fostering human rights and advocacy for sustainable development within Lebanese communities.