As we usher in the new year, the Peace of Art family extends heartfelt wishes for a year filled with hope and resilience. Our commitment to community engagement, capacity building, and human rights remains steadfast. We aspire to enhance sustainable development through advocacy and impactful initiatives, striving to create meaningful social impact. Together, let us embark on a journey to promote wellness and empowerment in our communities. May this year inspire us all to champion positive change and uphold the values we cherish. Happy New Year from all of us at Peace of Art!

As we welcome a new year, it is essential to not only envision our aspirations but to also take actionable steps toward realizing them. At Peace of Art, we are committed to supporting individuals and communities in transforming their dreams into tangible achievements. By focusing on capacity building and advocacy, we promote human rights and sustainable development. Together, we can foster lasting social impact, empowering communities to engage meaningfully and effect positive change. Let us embark on this journey towards success, united in our mission to create a better future for all.

Building the capacities of youth and expanding their opportunities are top priorities at Peace of Art. In 2025, we will initiate new Lebanese-international partnerships, beginning with YOUTH GLOBE in Germany. This collaboration aims to leverage international expertise across diverse fields, including entrepreneurship, culture, and the dialogue of civilizations. Through community engagement and advocacy, we strive to foster social impact and promote human rights. Mahdi Yahya, Chairman of Peace of Art and International Relations Manager at YOUTH GLOBE, emphasizes that these efforts are vital for sustainable development and the betterment of humanity.

On January 16, 2022, Peace of Art will participate in the Global High-Level Conference on Inclusive Peace Processes for Youth. This event aims to emphasize the significant role that young people play in fostering inclusive societies and advancing human rights. It aligns with UN Resolution 2250, which underscores the critical areas of youth, peace, and security. Through this initiative, we aim to enhance community engagement and capacity building for young leaders, ultimately promoting sustainable development and advocating for social impact in conflict-affected areas.

On December 3, 2021, we witnessed remarkable enthusiasm from participants in the "Art Against Violence" program. These dedicated change-makers are actively fostering peace and community cohesion in the region through their artistic endeavors. Their recent project, a mural titled "We Talk Peace," is prominently displayed on the wall of Al-Ain Public High School. This initiative not only enhances local aesthetics but also serves as a powerful medium for advocacy in human rights and sustainable development, reinforcing the imperative of social impact through capacity building and creative expression.

We are pleased to announce our participation in the "High-Level Global Conference on Youth-Inclusive Peace Processes." Our president, Vera Mawla, will address the audience, sharing insights from our extensive work in Lebanon. Through community engagement and capacity building, Peace of Art has effectively involved youth in peace-building initiatives. This forum presents an invaluable opportunity to discuss human rights, advocacy strategies, and the social impact of youth involvement in sustainable development efforts. We are dedicated to fostering inclusive dialogues that empower the next generation to lead in promoting lasting peace.

We are pleased to announce our presence on X, a platform that will enhance our community engagement efforts. By following us, you can stay informed about our initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and capacity-building programs aimed at promoting human rights and sustainable development. Your support helps amplify our social impact and fosters a collaborative approach to addressing pressing global challenges. Join our growing community and contribute to meaningful change through informed discussions and shared resources. Together, we can make a difference in the pursuit of justice and equality for all.

Peace of Art is committed to fostering a generation of creative, self-aware, and active leaders capable of driving meaningful change. Our "Future Champions" Program marks a significant step in this mission, offering free classes led by dedicated volunteers. Through community engagement, we nurture children’s musical, artistic, linguistic, and social skills while introducing vital concepts such as non-violent communication, peaceful communities, justice, dialogue, and democracy. This initiative not only promotes capacity building but also establishes a safe environment that instills positive values from an early age, thereby enhancing social impact and advocating for sustainable development and human rights.

On January 21, 2022, Miss ,Vera Al-Mawla President of Peace of Art, represented the organization at the High-Level Global Conference on Youth-Inclusive Peace Processes. In her address, Vera affirmed Peace of Art's dedication to promoting community engagement and advocating for human rights. She underscored the organization's initiatives focused on youth capacity building in peace-building efforts, aligning with the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda. Through these strategic commitments, Peace of Art aims to foster social impact and support sustainable development, empowering young voices to actively participate in the global dialogue on peace.

On February 10, 2022, Mr. Mahdi Yahya, the chairman of Peace of Art, will address the organization’s initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of peace through art and education. He will highlight the importance of community engagement and capacity building in promoting human rights and sustainable development. The appearance is part of the "Civil Society Dialogue Programme VI" (CSD-VI) between Turkey and the EU, organized by the Peace Culture Education Network (PeaCE NET). This event underscores our dedication to advocacy and enhancing social impact through creative expression and educational programs.

Over these past two years, my involvement with this academy has significantly enhanced my expertise in various domains. I have cultivated essential skills in project writing, effective communication, and engaging in constructive discussions, all of which are crucial for advancing our mission. This experience has not only contributed to my personal development but has also strengthened my commitment to community engagement, human rights, and sustainable development initiatives. As the founder and chairman of the Peace of Art Association, I recognize the vital importance of continuous learning and capacity building in fostering social impact." - Mahdi Yahya

On February 20, 2022, Peace of Art successfully organized an artistic event as part of the "Art Against Violence" project at Al Fakiha Caffee, attracting over 200 attendees, including community stakeholders and participants' families. The event commenced with the national anthem, followed by remarks from Mr. Ibrahim Yehya, the organization's Program Officer, who highlighted Peace of Art's significant contributions to community engagement and youth empowerment in North Beqaa since its inception in 2016. The audience enjoyed a variety of artistic performances, including music, filmmaking, drawing, theater, and photography, resulting in positive feedback and enthusiasm. This event underscores Peace of Art's commitment to sustainable development and advocacy in the artistic and educational sectors.

On February 28, 2022, we are honored to announce that Ms. Vera Al-Mawla, President of Peace of Art, will speak at the "Peacebuilding Forum, Erasmus +," hosted by the European Union. In this forum, Ms. Al-Mawla will share critical insights drawn from our extensive community engagement initiatives aimed at empowering youth in local peacebuilding processes. By emphasizing capacity building and advocacy, Peace of Art commits to enhancing human rights awareness and promoting sustainable development within marginalized communities. This event underscores our dedication to fostering social impact through youth participation in shaping peaceful futures.

On March 1, 2022, we reaffirm our dedication to eliminating all forms of discrimination as a fundamental step toward building healthy and inclusive societies. This commitment is essential for promoting human rights, fostering community engagement, and enhancing social impact. By prioritizing advocacy and capacity building, we strive to empower marginalized groups and facilitate sustainable development. Together, we can create an environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, ultimately leading to a more equitable future for all. Let us unite in our efforts to combat discrimination and champion the values of equality and inclusion.

On March 12, 2022, the International Conference on Dialogue and the Culture of Peace welcomed Mr. Mahdi Yahya to discuss the initiatives of Peace of Art and their role in fostering a culture of peace. Through effective community engagement and capacity building, the organization aims to advocate for human rights and sustainable development. Mr. Yehya's insights will emphasize the importance of fostering dialogue and collaboration, enhancing social impact, and promoting resilience within communities. This event underscores a collective commitment to advancing peace through education and advocacy in our interconnected world.

From Peace of Art, we extend our heartfelt tribute to mothers globally, recognizing their pivotal roles in fostering community engagement and advocating for human rights. Mothers are instrumental in capacity building, nurturing future generations to embody principles of sustainable development. Their unwavering commitment not only enhances family resilience but also amplifies social impact within communities. As we celebrate motherhood, we honor the profound influence these women have in shaping a more equitable and compassionate world, inspiring collective action towards advocacy and systemic change. Let us acknowledge and uplift the tireless efforts of mothers everywhere.

On March 23, 2022, Mr. Ibrahim Yahya, Program Manager of Peace of Art, delivered a compelling speech during the launch conference of the Arab Culture and Arts Network (ACAN), hosted under the patronage of the Minister of Culture. This initiative aims to foster community engagement and promote capacity building in the arts sector, emphasizing the importance of cultural solidarity. By championing human rights and sustainable development through advocacy, ACAN seeks to enhance social impact and create platforms for artists across the Arab region, thereby enriching cultural dialogues and partnerships.

From March 21 to 27, 2022, Peace of Art actively participated in the Week of Solidarity with peoples combating racism and racial discrimination. This engagement reaffirmed our commitment to rejecting all forms of discrimination. We recognize that the arts serve as a vital tool in promoting awareness and understanding, fostering community engagement, and building capacity to combat these injustices. Through advocacy and creative expression, we aim to enhance human rights and support sustainable development, ultimately contributing to meaningful social impact in our communities.

On March 26, 2022, participants in the "Art Against Violence" project created a mural titled "Peace be upon the one who loves peace" on the wall of Ras Baalbek Public High School. This initiative serves as a vital expression of community engagement, emphasizing the importance of human rights and social impact. By utilizing artistic methods, we aim to foster a culture of peace and resilience within the local community. This project not only enhances the aesthetic value of the neighborhood but also contributes to capacity building and sustainable development efforts in the region.

Launched on April 8, 2022, the "Know Your Candidate" initiative is a community-driven program by the Peace of Art association. This initiative aims to engage young people within the third district of Baalbek-Hermel by familiarizing them with the electoral platforms of various candidates. At this event, candidates convene at the Peace of Art Center to engage in meaningful dialogue with youth from diverse regions of Baalbek-Hermel. Participants are encouraged to ask critical questions regarding electoral projects, promoting civic engagement and informed decision-making. Importantly, this initiative operates independently, free from partisan influence or financial backing from donors.

On April 1, 2022, the Peace of Art organization successfully conducted a Training of Trainers (ToT) program titled “Music and Art Therapy for Kids” at Ecolodge, Khan Al Maksud, Taanayel. This initiative was designed for “Cirquenciel,” an artistic educational circus dedicated to reinforcing ties among youth from diverse backgrounds. Over two days, participants explored effective communication strategies with children and employed artistic methods to dismantle barriers. They gained skills in facilitating musical activities and providing psychosocial support, particularly for children affected by trauma—including war, displacement, and violence. The ToT aims to strengthen collaboration among local organizations and enhance capacity building among trainers, ultimately promoting sustainable development and social impact.

On April 29, 2022, Peace of Art is proud to announce the launch of free professional training courses designed to enhance community engagement and foster capacity building for youth aged 13 to 21. Hosted at the Peace of Art Center in Al Fakiha, the curriculum includes English language exercises, storytelling techniques, communication skills development, and comprehensive training in computer and Microsoft applications. By equipping young individuals with these vital skills, Peace of Art bolsters advocacy for human rights and promotes sustainable development, ultimately ensuring a positive social impact within the community.

On May 5, 2022, we will host youth dialogue meetings designed to address critical cultural, social, and artistic issues. These forums will foster community engagement and promote advocacy for human rights among young participants. By facilitating open conversations, we aim to enhance capacity building and encourage active participation in sustainable development initiatives. We invite you to stay connected with us on social media for updates on our activities, courses, and other opportunities that contribute to positive social impact in our community. Your involvement is key to driving change.

On April 19, 2022, representatives from the Institut Francais Du Liban, including Deputy Director Camille Brunelle and theater specialist Fabrice Henry, visited the Peace of Art Center in Al Fakiha. Their tour showcased various activities aimed at fostering community engagement and enhancing capacity building. This visit led to constructive discussions focused on developing joint initiatives that emphasize advocacy for human rights and sustainable development. The collaborative efforts agreed upon will bolster the commitment of both organizations to generate significant social impact while enriching cultural experiences within the community.

Amman, Jordan - May 19, 2022 - May 28, 2022

On June 18, 2022, the Peace of Art Band will perform in a significant concert at the historic Baalbek Castle, specifically the Temple of Bacchus, organized by the French Cultural Center in celebration of Music Day. Set to begin at 7:00 p.m., this event exemplifies our ongoing commitment to community engagement and cultural promotion. Through this collaboration, we strive to support sustainable development and human rights while enhancing social impact. By fostering partnerships like this one, we advocate for cultural preservation and capacity building in our region, reinforcing our mission to empower communities through the arts.

On June 21, 2022, in observance of World Music Day, Peace of Art reaffirms its commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence through the transformative power of art, particularly music. This occasion serves as a tribute to all musicians dedicated to promoting peace and social harmony through their craft. By leveraging music as a tool for community engagement and capacity building, we enhance human rights advocacy and contribute to sustainable development efforts. Together, we can amplify social impact and inspire future generations to embrace diversity and collaboration through the universal language of music.

Rabat, Morocco – On June 23, 2022, Peace of Art NGO, led by its President, Ms. Vera Al-Mawla, engaged in the Intergenerational Dialogue Forum focused on the Role of Youth in Preventing Violent Extremism through Sport. This initiative is part of the Global Program for the Security of Major Sporting Events, which emphasizes the importance of sport as a mechanism for promoting human rights and sustainable development. The forum, facilitated by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute, fostered community engagement and capacity building among youth leaders from the Middle East and North Africa, discussing the positive social impact of sports in

On July 25, 2022, the Lebanese Center for Studies (LCPS) hosted a conference entitled "The Political and Citizen Journalist Roles of Youth in Rebuilding Lebanon," featuring Mr. Mahdi Yahya, founder and Chairman of the Peace of Art NGO, as the keynote speaker. Represented by President Ms. Vera Al-Mawla, the session addressed critical structural barriers inhibiting youth involvement in political processes. The discussion explored the consequences of the ongoing Lebanese crisis on youth political participation and highlighted the unique challenges women face in this domain. The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, encouraging community engagement and advocacy for inclusive political reform.

The Peace of Art Association invites educators to register for an upcoming training session designed to enhance teaching skills and methodologies. This comprehensive program will cover essential topics such as blended learning, effective communication techniques, body language, and the utilization of visual platforms. By focusing on capacity building and community engagement, this initiative supports educators in fostering an inclusive learning environment. Participants will gain valuable tools that align with human rights principles and sustainable development goals, ultimately contributing to meaningful social impact through enhanced advocacy efforts in education.

In the Baalbek-Hermel region, our foremost concern is empowering youth. Peace of Art has made significant strides in facilitating opportunities for young men and women, enabling them to become influential advocates for change. By equipping them with essential life and technical skills, we foster positive self-development and encourage acceptance within the community. By celebrating International Youth Day, we honor the future peacemakers who initiate projects aimed at enhancing their communities. We aspire for these young leaders to propagate a culture of peace through nonviolent methods and to drive social change for a sustainable future. Happy International Youth Day!

On August 20, 2022, the Peace of Art Organization convened a roundtable discussion at the Main Center in Al Fakiha, inviting clerics from the northern Bekaa region and participants from the "Musawat" project. This initiative focuses on peaceful coexistence and acceptance of diversity through community engagement. Youth were trained in human rights, effective communication, debate, and music. The session commenced with the Lebanese national anthem, followed by remarks from President Ms. Vera Al-Mawla and Executive Director Mr. Ibrahim Yahya. Clergy representatives, including Sheikh Omar Yahya and Father Rabie Shaaban, engaged with student inquiries on peaceful coexistence. The event concluded with students presenting recommendations and honoring the attending clerics with recognition shields.

On August 26, 2022, the “Peace of Art” Organization, in collaboration with Al Fakiha Sports Club and the National Education Scouts, successfully organized a Sports Festival at Al Fakiha Primary School. This initiative aimed to foster community engagement and promote social impact through sports. Notably, a volleyball match featured local teams, including Al Fakiha Club and Fallujah Club. The match concluded in a draw, celebrating the spirit of unity and collaboration. Trophies and medals were awarded to both teams, exemplifying advocacy for healthy competition and capacity building in the region, aligning with our commitment to sustainable development and human rights.

From August 21st to 25th, 2022, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Peace of Art NGO participated in the Search for Common Ground training program, aimed at enhancing community engagement and capacity building among digital community stewards. Represented by President Vera Al Mawla as a "Digital Community Steward," this initiative focused on equipping participants with essential tools for understanding digital safety. Training encompassed critical concepts such as misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech to cultivate safe and cohesive online environments. By fostering effective reporting practices for negative narratives, Peace of Art is committed to promoting human rights and social impact through the development of respectful discourse and community guidelines alongside educators and youth.

On August 27, 2022, Peace of Art Organization convened a roundtable discussion in the northern Bekaa region, engaging religious leaders and youth as part of the "Musawat 2" project focused on women's rights through diverse religious perspectives. This initiative aimed at enhancing community engagement and capacity building in the context of human rights and gender-based violence (GBV). The program included training sessions on effective communication, debate techniques, and music, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Following the Lebanese National Anthem and opening speeches by organizational leaders, representatives from various religious sects addressed the critical theme of women's roles in society, leading to an interactive Q&A session. Participants concluded with actionable recommendations for the leaders, reinforcing the importance of advocacy in promoting social impact. Certificates were awarded to attendees to acknowledge their commitment to sustainable development in the community.

On August 7, 2022, Peace of Art (PoA) Headquarters in Al Fakiha organized a comprehensive training workshop for the Emergency Relief team, focusing on fire safety and first aid. The training covered essential emergency response procedures, empowering team members to effectively address diverse scenarios while promoting community engagement. This initiative builds on the team’s previous efforts, such as providing emergency food and support to communities impacted

A preparatory meeting for the "Intercultural Days of Dresden" was conducted at the Green Party office in Dresden. Attendees included Ms. Tina Siebenichert, President of the Green Party; Mr. Aziz Bachouri, Advisory Council member; and Dr. Mahdi Yahya Yahya, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Peace of Art. The agenda focused on the upcoming conference titled “Climate Change and its Impact on Migration Movement,” scheduled for September 27, 2022. Dr. Yahya will address the implications of climate change on Lebanon's migration landscape. This event exemplifies our commitment to community engagement, capacity building, and advocacy for human rights and sustainable development.

On September 15, 2022, Peace of Art, in collaboration with the Development Indicators Association (DIA), hosted a discussion session led by Mr. Fayez Okasha. The focus was on the inclusion of persons with disabilities in local development processes, emphasizing community engagement and advocacy for marginalized groups. This initiative aimed at capacity building and fostering partnerships to promote sustainable development. The session took place in Peace of Art's playground and featured participation from members with special needs from Fakiha, highlighting the importance of human rights and social impact in our collective efforts toward inclusivity.

Today marks six years of dedicated efforts in combating hate speech and fostering a culture of peace and acceptance within the community. In alignment with International Peace Day, we reflect on our progress in community engagement and advocacy for human rights. Our initiatives have focused on capacity building and promoting sustainable development, creating a lasting social impact. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to continue working towards a more inclusive society where understanding and respect prevail. Together, we can build a future free from hate and inequality.

Since its inception, the Peace of Art relief team has been steadfast in addressing environmental crises and natural disasters by providing vital emergency assistance. In response to ongoing environmental degradation in North Bekaa, our team actively engages in community awareness initiatives regarding wildfires and advocates for climate change action. To expand our mission of environmental protection throughout Lebanon, we urgently require support and funding for emergency kits and essential equipment. Your contributions can significantly enhance our capacity building efforts and amplify our social impact. For those interested in volunteering or supporting our initiatives, please contact us at +96181950102.

From 15 to 20 September 2022, PAX for Peace hosted the “Musawat Training Camp” in Amman, Jordan, facilitating collaboration among organizations involved in the "Musawat" program, including Peace of Art. The camp commenced with a meeting among representatives from Lebanon, Palestine, and Iraq, where each organization presented its implementation strategies for the "Musawat" program. Mr. Ebrahim Yehya, Executive Director of Peace of Art, outlined the organization's activities and their positive social impact in North Bekaa. Peace of Art’s team participated in capacity-building training sessions focused on safe spaces, well-being, and advocacy efforts. The camp culminated in a cultural night that celebrated the diversity of participants from all three countries.

On October 7, 2022, the Peace of Art center in Al-Fakiha successfully concluded a series of workshops focused on entrepreneurship and project writing, facilitated by Mr. Ebrahim Yahya. These workshops aimed to enhance community engagement and build capacity among participants by equipping them with essential skills in project management and entrepreneurship. Attendees learned fundamental strategies for effective project implementation, fostering sustainable development and social impact within their communities. The final workshop culminated in the distribution of participation certificates, recognizing the commitment of each individual to human rights advocacy and their ongoing personal and professional development.

On November 12, 2022, Peace of Art NGO, in partnership with the Lebanese Red Cross, conducted a significant awareness seminar at the Peace of Art Center in Al Fakiha, focusing on the cholera epidemic. This event united high school students and community stakeholders keen to enhance their understanding of this critical public health issue.

On November 22, 2022, Lebanon commemorated its Independence Day, a pivotal moment in its history that symbolizes national sovereignty and resilience. This annual celebration is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of community engagement in advancing human rights and social justice. As Lebanon faces numerous challenges, it is vital to foster capacity building initiatives that empower citizens. By promoting advocacy for sustainable development, we can collectively enhance social impact and ensure that the principles of independence are upheld for future generations. Embracing this historic day allows us to reinforce our commitment to a unified and prosperous Lebanon.

This program is designed for individuals passionate about civil society work and eager to enhance their skills for impactful engagement. It offers comprehensive training in key areas essential for success in the NGO sector, including technical English, advanced computer skills, project planning and coordination, and information management. Participants will develop expertise in monitoring and evaluation, design thinking, and social media management, ensuring they are equipped for the job market. Applicants must hold a university diploma or its technical equivalent and be aged 21 to 36, with proficiency in English. This initiative by Peace of Art is fully funded.