Expanding Our Voice Beyond the Community.

On January 21, 2019, UNFPA Arab States highlighted the significant contributions of Miss Vera Mawla, President of Peace of Art, during her participation in the Arab Youth Forum held in Morocco. The article emphasizes the essential role of Peace of Art as a youth-led organization in the Middle East, advocating for human rights and sustainable development. It showcases how the organization fosters community engagement and capacity building among young leaders, thereby enhancing social impact across the region. Through initiatives like this forum, Peace of Art empowers youth to drive positive change and influence their communities effectively.

Peace of Art Academy is proud to announce the launch of new ballet classes specifically designed for girls aged 6 to 13. These classes aim to promote community engagement and capacity building, fostering a supportive environment for personal growth and artistic expression. By offering this program, we advocate for the human rights of young girls, ensuring they have access to enriching opportunities that contribute to their overall development. Through ballet, participants will cultivate confidence, discipline, and creativity, ultimately enhancing their social impact within the community. Join us in supporting sustainable development through the arts.

On February 1, 2019, the Peace of Art team, led by founder Mr. Mahdi Yahya and president Miss Vera Mawla, participated in an interview on Future TV with host Zaven. The discussion highlighted the vital role of the NGO in fostering community engagement and capacity building in the North Bekaa Region. Furthermore, the interview addressed the organization's efforts in challenging stereotypes surrounding Baalbeck citizens while advocating for human rights and sustainable development. By empowering local youth, Peace of Art is making significant strides in enhancing social impact and promoting a more inclusive society.

On February 12, 2019, Peace of Art hosted over 70 children from the Al Mabarrat Association for Orphans' Care in Hermel. This initiative focused on music education and its integration within the study of beauty values. The event commenced with remarks from Mr. Mohammed Salhab, Activities Coordinator at Al Mabarrat, who expressed gratitude to Peace of Art for their hospitality. Mr. Mahdi Yahya, Founder and Executive Director, highlighted the organization’s commitment to community engagement and capacity building through artistic endeavors. The event culminated in a musical performance by the Peace of Art band, leaving the children delighted. Miss Vera Mawla, President of Peace of Art, reaffirmed the organization's mission to make art and music accessible to all, reinforcing their dedication to human rights and sustainable development.

Mr. Mahdi Yahya, founder of Peace of Art, shared insights on Radio Liban (98.1/98.5 FM) regarding his organization's journey, the challenges it encountered, and its pivotal role in fostering community engagement and sustainable development in the region. During the interview, he emphasized the organization’s commitment to human rights, advocacy, and capacity building, highlighting how these efforts contribute to social impact. The conversation provided a comprehensive overview of Peace of Art’s initiatives, reflecting its dedication to empowering local communities. To explore the entire interview, listeners can access the live stream on the Radio Liban website.

On February 24, 2019, Peace of Art (PoA) welcomed Petra Hawi, an interior architect, music therapist, and founder of the "Aal Nota" band, to its center. Her visit was part of a project focused on Art and Ancient Heritage, highlighting the Baalbeck region’s cultural significance. The day began with a tour of the center, allowing Hawi to meet with teachers, musicians, and NGO members. The PoA band performed orientalist music to commemorate her visit. Hawi underscored the Academy's vital role in fostering artistic and social engagement, particularly among youth, while also emphasizing the organization's commitment to preserving Lebanese cultural heritage.

Peace of Art, founded My Dr. Mahdi Yahya, seeks to foster community engagement and promote social impact through artistic initiatives. In an enlightening feature on the Al Monitor media platform, journalist Sam Brennan explores the organization's mission following his visit. Hiba Soukarieh, the media officer, reflects on her journey with Peace of Art, highlighting the organization's commitment to human rights and capacity building. Through advocacy and creative expression, Peace of Art enhances sustainable development in the region, bringing together diverse communities to nurture dialogue and understanding, ultimately striving for a more peaceful future.

Two board members of Peace of Art, Mr. Mahdi Yahya and Miss Vera Mawla, have been selected to facilitate a workshop entitled “Arts and Culture in Peace-Building,” as part of ROTA’s 11th Annual Youth Conference EMPOWER. Scheduled for March 14-16, 2019, in Qatar, this workshop aims to engage young Arab leaders in discussions surrounding the intersection of arts, culture, and peace initiatives. Through our "Peace of Art" project, we will share our insights and experiences in capacity building, advocacy, and fostering social impact, all contributing to sustainable development and the promotion of human rights in their communities.

On March 8th, 2019, the Peace of Art Centre hosted a celebration for Women's International Day, organized by USPEAK Organization in partnership with the Ministry of Social Affairs. This event brought together numerous activists from the women's quota and approximately 50 other women. The festivities commenced with a performance by the PoA band, honoring the Lebanese national anthem. Deputy Mayor Rima Krounbi highlighted the pivotal role of women in fostering societal development. Mrs. Sanaa Rabah, principal of the Ministry of Social Affairs' Al Labweh center, shared her personal journey as a woman. The celebration concluded with speeches from English class students and the distribution of flowers to the attending women. We commend all mothers, students, and working women globally and recognize their essential contributions to social change and community engagement.

On March 31, the "Peace of Art" initiative culminated in a successful exhibition showcasing photography and drawing created during a three-month program. Held at the Al Ain Municipality, this event was organized by the Social and Cultural Committee as part of the "Mechanism of Social Stability" project. The exhibition was inaugurated by Mayor Zakaria Nasser Al-deen and featured a panel discussion on the critical topic of Stealthy Weapons in Lebanon, presented by Dr. Fadi Abi Allam. The presence of diverse social actors underscored the exhibition's significance in fostering community engagement, capacity building, and advocating for human rights and sustainable development.

Vera AL Mawla, the President of Peace of Art, recently represented the organization at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. Following a significant rise in recognition within the European Parliament, Miss Mawla addressed the ECOSOC 2019 conference. Her speech emphasized the importance of community engagement and capacity building, particularly the role of youth in driving economic and social development within their communities. By advocating for human rights and sustainable development, she highlighted how empowering young individuals creates a substantial social impact and fosters transformative change in local societies.

Dr. Azadeh Sobout, an Iranian postdoctoral scholar, is leading a project with "In Place of War," a UK-based NGO in collaboration with the University of Manchester. During her visit to Peace of Art NGO on April 22, 2019, Sobout conducted interviews with board members as part of her research titled "The Art of Peace." This study focuses on the intersection of art and peacebuilding, emphasizing how grassroots-led arts initiatives can play a vital role in fostering peace within communities. Moreover, Sobout aims to identify the positive contributions of art to sustainable development and human rights advocacy, enhancing social impact in conflict-affected areas.

Peace of Art participated in the "Qudra" program organized by the Social Movement in Al Nabatieh on April 23rd and 24th, and in Majdal Anjar on April 25th. During these sessions, we provided artistic training to groups of Syrian refugee children, teaching them about musical instruments and how to play them effectively. The "Qudra" initiative aims to enhance the resilience of Syrian refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and host communities amid the Syrian and Iraqi crises. Supported by the EU Regional Trust Fund, the 'Madad' Fund, and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), this program highlights the importance of community engagement and capacity building, promoting human rights and sustainable development through advocacy and social impact initiatives.

At Peace of Art, we prioritize the empowerment and protection of children, recognizing that creating an environment suited to their needs and abilities is essential. Our musical band recently performed at the "Be Their Voice" marathon organized by the National Educational Scouts-Al Fakiha at Boudi Caffee. As a non-governmental organization, we view ourselves as partners with other NGOs and Scouts dedicated to fostering community development and promoting child protection values. By investing in our children today, we ensure they become the leaders of tomorrow; safeguarding their rights is a shared responsibility vital for sustainable development and social impact.

On May 5, 2019, a celebration marked the partnership launch between Peace of Art (PoA) NGO and Modern International School (MIS). The event featured a musical performance by the PoA band and was attended by various social, civil, and political activists. Dr. Houssien Zaayter, founder of MIS, and Mr. Mahdi Yahya, founder of Peace of Art, delivered speeches highlighting the significance of this collaboration for community engagement and capacity building. This partnership underscores a commitment to human rights, advocacy, and creating a lasting social impact in pursuit of sustainable development.

The Peace of Art (POA) team recently shared insights on Emirates TV’s “AlAAN.” During the interview, POA Founder Mr. Mahdi Yahya was honored as one of the seven most inspirational young change-makers in the Arab world. This acknowledgment highlights the vital role of youth advocacy in promoting human rights and sustainable development. Mr. Yehya's vision aligns with POA's commitment to community engagement and capacity building, fostering social impact across the region. Through initiatives like this, POA reinforces the importance of empowering young leaders to drive positive change within their communities.

A diverse group of artists and humanitarian activists from across Europe recently visited our center as part of a study trip titled “Art & International Cooperation.” This initiative aimed to explore the intersection of artistic expression and social impact while promoting community engagement and capacity building. Participants engaged in critical discussions about human rights, sustainable development, and the role of advocacy in enhancing communities. By fostering dialogue and collaboration among creative and humanitarian sectors, this visit underscores the importance of art as a powerful tool for social change and collective empowerment.

On Monday, May 20, 2019, Mr. Mahdi Yahya, founder of Peace of Art, appeared as a guest on the morning show "ALIVE" on MTV Lebanon. During the interview, he discussed the organization's activities, emphasizing its commitment to community engagement and capacity building. Dr. Yahya also addressed the various challenges encountered in the pursuit of human rights and sustainable development. Through advocacy and strategic initiatives, Peace of Art aims to enhance social impact and foster resilience within communities. His insights highlight the importance of collaboration and the ongoing effort to overcome obstacles in the NGO sector.

On May 23, 2019, the Peace of Art Band participated in the "Discover Asia" event at LIU University. The event, which emphasized community engagement and cultural exchange, was attended by several dignitaries, including Mr. Hassan Mrad, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, represented by the deputy of the General Directory of "Al Ghad Al Afdal" institution, and Mr. Hajeryano Toharey, the Indonesian Ambassador. Local stakeholders were also present, reflecting a commitment to capacity building and advocacy for human rights. The band's performance highlighted the richness of Lebanese and Arabic traditional music, promoting sustainable development and social impact through the preservation of local cultural heritage.

It took six months of meticulous planning to implement Art Camp's program at the Peace of Art center, which is fully equipped to guarantee children's safety and enhance their learning experiences. The curriculum, which integrates educational, artistic, and recreational elements, has been designed by over 15 professional trainers specializing in diverse artistic and social disciplines. This initiative not only fosters skill development and creativity but also promotes community engagement and social impact. Seize this opportunity to invest in your children's summer, contributing to their capacity building and advocacy for human rights through sustainable development initiatives.

Members of Peace of Art engaged in the training session titled "Equality for All" at the Lebanese American University (LAU). This program emphasized the critical role of coalitions between non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and media outlets in advancing advocacy campaigns. Participants explored international agreements focused on women's rights and examined the global benefits achieved in 2020. The training underscored the importance of community engagement and capacity building in promoting human rights and sustainable development, ultimately enhancing social impact and fostering collaborative efforts toward gender equality.

On July 13 and 14, 2019, Peace of Art organized a training workshop in collaboration with the Nabad organization. This initiative was aimed at enhancing the skills of the Peace of Art and Jousour Al Nour teams in the fundamentals of debate as part of the Youth Med Voice (YMV) program, which is funded by the British Council. This training not only focused on capacity building but also aimed to empower participants to engage more effectively in community advocacy. By fostering debate skills, the workshop sought to contribute to sustainable development and the promotion of human rights, thereby enhancing social impact within the community.

At Peace of Art, we recognize that youth are the cornerstone of society and the key to transformative change. Our commitment to community engagement is central to our mission, as we strive to empower young people to express their voices and ideas freely. By focusing on capacity building, we foster human rights, sustainable development, and advocacy initiatives that enable youth to leave a lasting social impact on their environments. On World Youth Day, we reaffirm our dedication to developing the abilities, talents, and visions of young individuals, empowering them to become the future ambassadors of peace.

Peace of Art has been selected as the inaugural Lebanese organization within the United Network of Young Peace-builders. This esteemed network focuses on enhancing sustainable, youth-driven initiatives for peace-building globally. By collaborating with over 80 NGOs committed to the peace-building sector, Peace of Art leverages community engagement and capacity building to advocate for human rights and sustainable development. This partnership not only amplifies our social impact but also fosters a collective commitment to nurturing resilience and harmony in communities worldwide.

On September 4, 2019, Spanish journalist Joan Cabasés visited Peace of Art as part of his academic research on civil society organizations' role in fostering coexistence and social cohesion in the country. This visit is a continuation of Peace of Art's commitment to community engagement and capacity building, aligning with the principles of human rights and sustainable development. As part of his Master's studies in International Journalism at Blanquerna Ramon Llull University in Barcelona, Cabasés's research underscores the significance of advocacy and social impact initiatives, further establishing Peace of Art as a prominent destination for postgraduate students from various international universities.

On Sunday, September 22, 2019, Peace of Art Organization took part in the graduation ceremony for participants of the Teaching Women English (TWE) program, organized by the USPEAK Association and funded by the American Embassy in Beirut. This event exemplifies our commitment to community engagement and capacity building in the realm of human rights and sustainable development. By empowering women through language education, we contribute to advocacy efforts that enhance social impact, fostering a more equitable society. Such initiatives are critical in promoting lifelong learning and resilience within marginalized communities.

In Fall 2019, the Lebanese American University (LAU) initiated the "Outreach & Civic Engagement Volunteering Program" (OCEVP) designed exclusively for LAU students participating in the Higher Education Scholarship (HES) program. This initiative aims to foster community engagement and promote social impact by encouraging students to volunteer with our NGO. Participants will dedicate approximately 44 hours to civic engagement activities at our center, enhancing their skills and contributing to sustainable development and human rights advocacy in their communities. This program embodies our commitment to capacity building and the empowerment of future leaders.

On October 9, 2019, the "Peace of Art" project was nominated as one of the top ten humanitarian initiatives in the Arab and European worlds at the prestigious Arab German Dialogue Award. During this event, Dr. Mehdi Yahya, the founder of the organization, delivered a comprehensive presentation detailing the establishment, objectives, and strategic vision of the NGO. This recognition underscores the project’s commitment to community engagement, capacity building, and advocacy for human rights, thereby enhancing social impact and fostering sustainable development within diverse communities.

Peace of Art has been honored by the Arab Youth Centre as one of 14 exemplary Arabic initiatives. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to inspire Arab youth and contribute to addressing the pressing challenges faced by the Arab region. Through our efforts, we aim to implement creative solutions that resonate with the principles of capacity building, human rights, and advocacy. These initiatives play a crucial role in advancing sustainable development goals (SDGs) and enhancing social impact within communities, fostering a generation of empowered young leaders ready to shape their futures.

The Peace of Art Organisation, in collaboration with Forum ZFD and STEPS, successfully conducted a Training of Trainers (TOT) session titled "Hawli w Hwailayi." This initiative targets trainers and animators engaged with children in NGOs and scouting groups across the Baalbeck-Al-Hermel region. Utilizing the "Hawli w Hwalayi" toolkit—an interactive resource centered on non-violent education—the training emphasizes conflict resolution concepts. By fostering a safe, creative environment for child-directed activities, this program enhances community engagement and capacity building within the field of children's rights, contributing to sustainable development and social impact in the region.

The Peace of Art team, in partnership with the Lebanese Cross, conducted awareness sessions at the POA center aimed at youth. These sessions focused on essential COVID-19 safety measures, fostering community engagement and strengthening public health knowledge. By equipping young individuals with vital information, the initiative not only contributed to improved health outcomes but also supported capacity building within the community. Through this advocacy effort, we strive to promote human rights and ensure equitable access to information crucial for sustainable development. The initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing social impact through informed and resilient youth.

Hiba Soukarieh, a dedicated member of our organization, has been selected to participate in influential research conducted by a Harvard University student and sponsored by National Geographic. This initiative, titled "Students Under the Surface," aims to explore international movements focused on youth engagement. By examining the role of young individuals in advocating for human rights and promoting sustainable development, this research seeks to enhance our understanding of community engagement and capacity building. Hiba's involvement highlights the critical social impact of youth in today's global landscape.

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Peace of Art has launched complimentary online piano classes, developed by Vera Mawla. These lessons are designed to enhance community engagement and capacity building by providing accessible musical education. Available on the Peace of Art YouTube channel, this initiative aims to promote human rights through the arts and foster sustainable development. By delivering valuable resources during challenging times, Peace of Art underscores its commitment to advocacy and fostering a positive social impact within communities. Join us in creating opportunities for artistic expression and personal growth through music.