Country: Ethiopia
City:
Organizer
Ethiopian Interfaith Forum For Development, Dialogue And Action
Youth Peacebuilding Training (Addis Ababa & Zeway– Jan 30 to Feb 3, 2025): Talented
Youth leaders engaged in peacebuilding workshops, harnessing creative arts for unity,
interfaith dialogue, and collaboration. This event positioned youth as key drivers of peacebuilding and FoRB advocates. Through interactive activities, it equipped participants with skills in social cohesion, advocacy, and artistic expression. The first activity, a capacity-building workshop on January 30 at the Catholic Cathedral School in Addis Ababa, brought together youth leaders to explore conflict resolution, religious tolerance, and human rights, with expert facilitators guiding discussions on using art for peacebuilding..
At the #WIHW2025 training, youth gained the knowledge and skills to drive change through their creative artworks and exhibitions, fostering dialogue and collaboration for a more peaceful world. A powerful moment of connection at the #WIHW2025 training workshop—hands clasped, hearts open, and minds united. These diverse young leaders build trust and relationships for the common good! Building on the first day, a retreat in Zeway on January 31 provided an immersive space for participants to transform their reflections into over 20 pieces of artwork focused on peace, coexistence, and unity. The retreat fostered collaboration, deepened interfaith dialogue, and inspired youth to use visual storytelling as a tool for promoting peace in their communities. One youth said that: "Zeway allowed me to step back and think deeply. It was not just about creating art—it was about expressing my vision of a peaceful Ethiopia. These artworks are not just for me, but for everyone who believes in peace." The momentum culminated in an art exhibition in Indibir Cathedral School, on April 1, held in a conflict-prone JISRA project zone. The event attracted over 3,000 visitors on its opening day, including students, educators, faith leaders, and community members. Through their artwork and personal stories, youth sparked conversations about peace and reconciliation, demonstrating how art can be a powerful tool for advocacy. This ongoing effort will amplify the lasting impact of youth-driven collaboration and creative advocacy, reinforcing EIFDDA’s commitment to empowering young changemakers in advancing peace and religious freedom.
Extending beyond #WIHW2025, the initiative aims to reach 20,000 people across JISRA’s conflict-prone areas in the next two quarters, further empowering youth to shape inclusive, harmonious communities. The #WIHW2025 movement has had a profound impact, empowering young people as peacebuilders and leaders. Through workshops, retreats, and art exhibitions, youth have showcased resilience and the importance of peace. As EIFDDA moves forward, we remain committed to amplifying youth voices and ensuring their role in shaping Ethiopia's future peace, one artist at a time.
A religious leader attending the exhibition remarked, “This event shows that peace is not just a concept but something tangible. These young artists are leading a movement that will continue to inspire generations.”