“I was born into war. My childhood was not measured by birthdays or school years, but by bombings, displacement, fear, and loss. While other children learned what safety felt like, I learned how quickly it could disappear.
Mahdi Yahya
From the shadows of war to the International Bremen Peace Award 2026.
Discover the story behind the journey.
🎬 Watch the full video here.
A Historic Recognition for Peace of Art International at Bremen City Hall
On the evening of May 8, 2026, beneath the magnificent ceilings of the historic Bremen City Hall, a remarkable chapter was written in the story of Peace of Art International. Surrounded by peace advocates, cultural leaders, academics, civil society representatives, and distinguished guests from different countries, Mahdi Yahya, Founder and Chairman of Peace of Art International, was awarded theInternational Bremen Peace Award 2026 for Pioneering Peace Work.
The prestigious distinction recognizes individuals and initiatives whose work contributes meaningfully to peacebuilding, social cohesion, intercultural dialogue, and human dignity. For Mahdi Yahya, the award represents more than a personal achievement—it stands as an acknowledgment of a lifelong commitment to using art, culture, education, and community engagement as powerful tools for positive transformation.
The ceremony was both a celebration and a reflection on the enduring power of human connection, creativity, and collective action in building a more peaceful world.
Opening Remarks by Annette Klasing
The ceremony was officially opened by Annette Klasing, Chairwoman of the schwelle Foundation, whose welcoming address set the tone for an evening dedicated to peace, dialogue, and social responsibility.
Addressing guests gathered in the historic Bremen City Hall, Klasing emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals and initiatives that actively contribute to building a more just and peaceful world. She highlighted the role of civil society, cultural engagement, and international cooperation in responding to the challenges of our time and creating spaces where understanding can flourish across borders.
In her remarks, she reflected on the mission of the International Bremen Peace Award and the responsibility of supporting people whose work demonstrates that peace is not merely an aspiration, but a daily commitment expressed through action, solidarity, and human connection.
Welcoming the La, partners, and guests from different countries, Klasing underscored the significance of bringing together diverse voices in pursuit of a shared vision for peace. Her words provided a meaningful introduction to an evening that celebrated courage, creativity, and the power of individuals and communities to inspire positive change.
The audience responded warmly as her opening address established an atmosphere of reflection, appreciation, and hope, preparing the way for the presentations, artistic performances, and award ceremony that followed.
An Evening Guided by Music
and Hope
The evening commenced with an inspiring musical performance by students of Gesamtschule Bremen-Mitte. Their heartfelt presentation brought warmth and emotion to the historic hall, creating an atmosphere of reflection, unity, and hope.
Through music, the students reminded everyone present that peace is not only discussed in speeches and policies—it is also expressed through creativity, empathy, and shared cultural experiences. Their performance beautifully embodied the values at the heart of the Bremen Peace Award and set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Guests were then welcomed by Annette Klasing, Chairwoman of the schwelle Foundation, who emphasized the importance of supporting individuals and organizations that dedicate themselves to peace, social justice, and international understanding.
The Laudatory Speech by Karoline Linnert
One of the most significant moments of the evening was the laudatory speech delivered by Karoline Linnert, former Mayor and Senator of Finance of the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen.
In her address, she highlighted Mahdi Yahya’s extraordinary ability to transform artistic and cultural initiatives into instruments of dialogue, empowerment, and social change. She praised his commitment to building bridges between communities and his dedication to supporting young people, vulnerable groups, and civil society actors through creative and innovative approaches.
Her speech emphasized how Peace of Art International has become a platform where culture serves as a meeting point rather than a dividing line, bringing together people from different backgrounds around shared values of respect, understanding, and cooperation.
The audience responded with great appreciation, recognizing not only the achievements of Mahdi Yahya but also the broader impact of Peace of Art International’s work across Lebanon, Germany, the United States, and beyond.
“The Search” – A Musical Tribute by Aladdin Al Haddad
Adding another deeply moving dimension to the ceremony was the performance of “The Search”, an original composition by acclaimed guitarist Aladdin Al Haddad, dedicated to Mahdi Yahya on this special occasion.
The piece resonated throughout the hall with elegance and emotion, taking listeners on a symbolic journey through perseverance, hope, reflection, and purpose. Its melodies captured the essence of a lifelong quest for peace and understanding, echoing the values that have guided Mahdi Yahya’s work over the years.
As the notes filled the historic venue, the performance became more than a musical interlude—it became an artistic tribute to the transformative power of culture and the enduring search for a more peaceful world.
“The Search” stood as a reminder that every meaningful journey begins with a vision and continues through dedication, courage, and belief in the possibility of positive change.
A Conversation About Humanity, Lebanon, and the Responsibility to Act
One of the most meaningful moments of the evening took place during the second part of the ceremony, when journalist Thomas Joppig engaged Mahdi Yahya in an open conversation before the audience.
The discussion focused on the current humanitarian situation in Lebanon and the realities faced by communities affected by war, displacement, and ongoing instability. Drawing from his direct experience and humanitarian work, Mahdi Yahya spoke about the suffering of displaced families, the devastating consequences of conflict, and the daily challenges faced by civilians who continue to search for safety, dignity, and hope amid uncertainty.
With sincerity and compassion, he shared stories reflecting the human dimension of the crisis—families forced to leave their homes, entire villages affected by destruction, and communities struggling to rebuild their lives while living with the consequences of war.
Throughout the conversation, Mahdi Yahya emphasized the importance of continuing humanitarian and cultural initiatives that give a voice to those whose stories often remain unheard. He highlighted the role of organizations such as Peace of Art International in promoting dialogue, preserving human dignity, and ensuring that the experiences of affected communities are not forgotten.
More than an interview, the exchange became a powerful reminder that peacebuilding begins with listening, understanding, and acknowledging the realities faced by people living through conflict. The audience followed the conversation with great attention, making it one of the most impactful and thought-provoking moments of the evening.
Through this dialogue, the ceremony extended beyond the recognition of individual achievements and became a platform for raising awareness about the urgent humanitarian challenges facing many communities today, reaffirming the values of solidarity, compassion, and shared responsibility that lie at the heart of the International Bremen Peace Award.
Accepting the International Bremen Peace Award
As Mahdi Yahya took the stage to receive the International Bremen Peace Award, the moment carried profound significance not only for him but for everyone who has contributed to the journey of Peace of Art International.
In his acceptance remarks, he expressed deep gratitude to the schwelle Foundation, the jury, the organizers, and all those who continue to work tirelessly in the service of peace and human dignity.
He emphasized that peace is built every day through dialogue, education, cultural exchange, and the willingness to see humanity in one another despite differences.
He dedicated the award to all artists, educators, volunteers, activists, partners, and community members who believe that creativity and cooperation can create lasting social impact.
The recognition, he noted, belongs to everyone who has walked this journey together.
A Tribute to the Leadership and Commitment of Vera Al Mawla
During the ceremony, special appreciation was also extended to Vera Al Mawla, President of Peace of Art International, who was presented with a flower in recognition of her leadership, dedication, and unwavering support of the organization.
Her contribution to the growth and international development of Peace of Art has been instrumental in strengthening partnerships, expanding opportunities, and advancing the organization’s mission across borders.
The gesture reflected the collective nature of Peace of Art’s achievements and the importance of teamwork in creating sustainable impact.
Celebrating a Shared Commitment to Peace
Following the award presentation, guests gathered for a cocktail reception and buffet, providing an opportunity to celebrate, exchange ideas, and strengthen connections.
Representatives from different countries engaged in conversations about future collaborations, cultural initiatives, and innovative approaches to peacebuilding. The atmosphere was one of optimism and solidarity, reflecting the values that had been celebrated throughout the evening.
The gathering demonstrated that peace is built not only through formal recognition but also through the relationships, partnerships, and shared experiences that bring people together.
A Milestone for Peace of Art International
The International Bremen Peace Award 2026 marks a historic milestone for Peace of Art International.
What began as a vision rooted in the belief that art can inspire dialogue and positive change has evolved into an international movement connecting communities, empowering youth, supporting cultural exchange, and promoting social cohesion.
Today, with active initiatives and growing presence in Lebanon, Germany, the United States, and other regions, Peace of Art International continues to expand its mission while remaining faithful to its founding values.
The award serves as both recognition of past achievements and encouragement for the work that lies ahead.
Looking Toward the Future
The International Bremen Peace Award is not the conclusion of a journey—it is the beginning of a new chapter.
As Peace of Art International continues to grow internationally, the organization remains committed to creating opportunities for dialogue, supporting creative expression, empowering communities, and building bridges between cultures.
This recognition reaffirms the belief that peace is possible when people come together with courage, compassion, and a shared commitment to human dignity.
The evening of May 8, 2026, will remain a defining moment in the history of Peace of Art International—a celebration of what has been achieved and an inspiration for what can still be accomplished.
Through art, culture, and human connection, the search for peace continues.
I grew up watching lives, dreams, and entire communities shattered by violence. Those experiences left wounds that never fully heal—but they also gave me a purpose. Peace was never a theory for me. It was never a conference, a project, or a slogan. It was the difference between despair and hope, between survival and destruction.
Everything I have dedicated my life to began there.”
— Mahdi Yahya
