UK (Commonwealth Union)_ Commonwealth Secretary-General, The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, and Professor Sir Nasser David Khalili, Chairman of the Khalili Foundation, jointly inaugurated the Commonwealth Faith Festival, an initiative aimed at fostering peace through youth leadership. Addressing an audience comprising representatives from youth, peacebuilding, faith and community groups, academia, civil society, and advocacy organizations, they explained the significant benefits of this initiative.
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The primary focus of the program is to amplify the impact of peace-building endeavors by establishing a robust network of groups, facilitating constructive dialogues, and promoting initiatives dedicated to fostering peace. Accordingly, throughout 2024, the Commonwealth Faith Festival will actively encourage and support the development of new projects and initiatives. These endeavors will engage youth, civil society, and peacebuilding organizations, leveraging the power of understanding and collaboration to address various societal issues at the community level.
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This initiative marks a significant collaboration between the Khalili Foundation and the Commonwealth Secretariat, spanning multiple years. The Khalili Foundation is renowned for its international projects that utilize art, culture, and education as catalysts for fostering unity among people. In her impressive address, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC emphasized the profound resonance of a project that harnesses faith in the values of the Commonwealth. She stated, “But why faith? Your faith in humanity matters. It binds us together; it is the essence of who we are.” She expressed unwavering belief in the potential of Commonwealth youth and the shared values of the Commonwealth to mitigate conflicts and contribute to a better world.
The launch event featured panels comprising eminent experts, both physically present at Marlborough House and participating online from various Commonwealth regions. Engaging in dynamic and interactive discussions, these panels explored themes such as the role of Commonwealth values in promoting peace, opportunities for youth engagement in peace initiatives, leveraging youth, community and faith groups for conflict resolution and alternative dispute resolution, and the significance of partnerships in peacebuilding efforts.
Additionally, Sir David Khalili urged attendees to consider faith beyond its religious concept. He challenged the audience to recognize faith as an integral aspect of everyday life, manifesting in trust placed in various individuals and institutions. Sir David emphasized that faith serves as a foundation for mutual respect, transcending mere tolerance to foster collaboration for the greater good of humanity.
Furthermore, Professor Michelle Scobie, the project lead from the Commonwealth Secretariat, explained the various activities and opportunities available for youth participation throughout the year-long project. These include both physical and virtual training sessions covering topics such as alternative dispute resolution, project management, and youth involvement in peacebuilding efforts. Accordingly, young participants will be encouraged to develop and implement peacebuilding projects within their communities.
A panel of judges will select the most outstanding projects, with winning teams invited to a ceremony during the culmination of the Commonwealth Faith Festival in early 2025. Two award categories, each comprising five prizes, will recognize exceptional peacebuilding initiatives within communities and innovative projects led by secondary school students. Overall, the Commonwealth Faith Festival represents a concerted effort to harness the energy and enthusiasm of young people, community groups, and all stakeholders committed to peacebuilding across the Commonwealth. Through its projects, training, and initiatives, the festival aims to motivate and empower the future generation of youth peace ambassadors.
