Hyun Jin Moon's Global Peace Foundation: Your March updates from around the world — Jim Flynn

“Civil movements can change the world. To create a strong and broad civil base is the key groundwork for peaceful unification.” — In Teck Seo, Co-chairman, Action for Korea United

Women at the Heart of Interfaith Peacebuilding

GPF Nigeria showcases how women are driving interfaith peacebuilding, bringing together communities divided by past conflicts, fostering dialogue and trust, and promoting harmony through empathy, service, and values-based leadership that begins at home and extends to society.

GPF Philippines Expands All-Lights Village for Community Empowerment

GPF Philippines is advancing its All- Lights Village initiative by providing solar lighting, strengthening partnerships with government agencies, and supporting livelihoods and values-based community leadership to improve education, safety, and economic resilience among low- income families..

GPF Uganda Supports Peaceful and Credible 2026 Elections

GPF Uganda served as one of two accredited National Election Observers in Uganda’s 2026 elections, promoting peaceful participation, electoral integrity, and civic engagement nationwide.

GPF Malaysia Volunteers Bring Clean Water and Community to Ulu Semul

GPF Malaysia led a seven-day volunteer project in Ulu Semul where Global Peace Volunteers worked alongside the Orang Asli community to build and repair a gravity-fed water system, fostering teamwork, resilience, and deeper appreciation for the value of clean water.

Celebrating Youth as Today’s Peacebuilders and Tomorrow’s Leaders

“Youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow, they are today’s peacebuilders, with the power to unite communities through shared values, education, and collaboration.” — Daniel Juma Omondi, GPF Africa Regional Representative

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AKU’s Innovative Approaches for Realizing One Korea Global Peace Foundation

March 11, 2026

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In Teck Seo, Co-chairma n, Action for Korea United

International Forum on One Korea 2017: Solutions to the Korean Peninsula Crisis

Washington, D.C., November 14- 15, 2017

Korean reunification should be from the bottom up. Korean reunification has dominantly been a top- down consideration. There has been little room for engagement of the general public. Yet people’s voluntary action is important for reunification.

A political approach alone would not be enough. How many Korean people genuinely desire reunification? It is not so Donate to One Korea Glo obvious to me that my fellow Koreans all carry a yearning for Campaign reunification. What about people in North Korea? Do they want reunification? In case not, what is the use of any effortful ✓ Onetime Monthly dialogues between the two governments? Choose a one-time amo unt In history, we have seen that civil movements changed the path of a nation. In recent years, we all witnessed the Arab $100

Spring and the power of ordinary people. Civil movements can change the world even. Knowing this, we founded AKU $25 $10

with the aim to generate a popular citizen- based unification USD ,. Other movement in South Korea.

Our belief is that this civil- based campaign for unification, once generated in SK, can also lead to a significant change in North Korea. To create a strong and broad civil base is a key groundwork for peaceful unification.

Vision is not process-oriented Continue

To encourage people to support unification, we must have a vision of unification in place. Without a vision, unification FAQs•

would be inconceivable. The vision of unification first should express an aspiration for a new nation building. Also it should define a kind of unified nation that should be built on the Korean peninsula. This question is an issue of keen interest to neighboring countries as well.

Have Koreans reached any consensus on this matter? Unfortunately, we haven’t; the Republic of Korea still suffers from bipolarized ideological confrontations. We Koreans cannot start to talk about the process of unification until we first establish a consensus regarding what our unified Korea should look like.

Dr. Preston Hyun Jin Moon’s book, Korean Dream, published in 2014, articulated one such inspiring vision and hope for a unified Korea. The vision of Korean Dream is originated in the very founding ideal of Korea agreed upon among all Koreans, called Hongik-ingan, which means ‘for the benefit of all humanity.’ We, AKU, believe that any effort for Korean reunification should start first by sharing this vision of Korean Dream with the entire Korean nation.

Korean citizens led a grass-root movement

The word ‘unification movement’ is mistakenly taken to be a movement of a political kind between South and North Korean governments. Thinking that way, it is hard to expect a full-fledged grass-root movement to arise.

Unfortunately, unification movement now still remains a political and inter-governmental one. Korean Dream, however, suggests that unification movement should be more about the vision than about a certain political process. That is, unification movement should focus itself on realizing the vision by all means regardless of any political difficulties.

Based on this Korean Dream, AKU was founded in 2012 and has established itself as the largest civil NGO for unification existing in Korea today. AKU is represented by people with various backgrounds from every sector of society, beyond differences of political ideologies, religions, ages and regions.

AKU tries to build grass- root civil activities in the end. Its goal is to turn every Korean citizen into a true owner of the vision of unification, and to urge them to be actively engaged in fulfilling unification. AKU is currently operating in 11 provinces around the country, where more than 920 NGOs participate.

Cultural approach

AKU believes that, to form a popular consensus and support for unification, culture is the most effective tool. Since AKU was founded, many cultural initiatives have been launched. All of AKU chapters in each local region operate programs of engaging North Korean defectors. AKU not only supports NK defectors; it shares the Korean Dream vision for unification with them and encourages them to work together towards living a life of ‘benefiting all humanity.’

In 2015, in celebration of the 70th anniversary of Korean Independence, AKU proposed to Korean civil society to join together for “New Unification Song Campaign.” The campaign aimed to build up keen awareness among the youths so that they become more enthusiastic about unification.

The campaign organizing committee was formed and consisted of 1100 NGOs. 25 Top KPOP singers, both

conservative and liberal party leaders and the Minister of Unification - they all joined to produce the song ‘One Dream One Korea,’ which was composed by Kim, Hyung-seok, a renowned Korean producer. Finally, One K Concert was held and brought 40,000 young people to Seoul World Cup Stadium.

The song attracted millions of KPOP fans not only from Korea but across the world. It was the largest unification campaign led by civil groups since Korea was divided. We clearly saw the huge potential that a civil movement could bring to change our nation and its Korean people.

One K Global Campaign

Unification is not just an issue for Korea. Unification is one of the most critical issues in the world today. The destiny of the Korean peninsula will have a serious implication on the future path of the world. The tragic reality of Korean division was an unfortunate outcome of the past international geopolitical conflicts after WWII. To bring an end to this division, support from the international community is absolutely necessary.

AKU, in partnership with Global Peace Foundation and One Korea Foundation, has organized several important forums in Seoul and Washington, in order to build up international consensus for One Korea amongst scholars, policy makers, political leaders, civil and faith leaders.

With the goal of spreading the vision for Korean unification globally and also gaining global support, AKU conceived One Korea Global Campaign, and at last announced its start in the UN General Assembly in August 2016.

Targeting international civil societies, a new English song for Korean unification was produced by a renowned us Grammy Winner producer, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. The historic music recording was done by globally recognized singers from US, Australia, Korea, and the Philippines. The song ‘Korean Dream’ successfully delivers the vision and hope for unification.

The first One K Global Peace Concert was held in Manila, the Philippines in March, 2017. One global KPOP star, Psy and 6 other top KPOP singers performed in this concert. It was globally televised by KBS, KBS World and TV5 of the Philippines, appealing to KPOP fans around the world so that they have keener interest in Korean unification.

Now is a critical time when the NK nuclear threat has become more and more serious than ever. Thinking differently, it is a nice chance to form and build an international consensus for Korea unification.

The only viable solution to NK’s being a constant security threat is ‘Two Koreas become one again.’ AKU will continue to make more efforts to fulfill its mission, one for the benefit of all humanity. We strongly believe that one unified Korea can ultimately bring peace and prosperity to the world and humanity. I hope that all of you can share the same vision and goal with me.

I sincerely ask you to give your full support to One Korea Global Campaign.

Thank very much.

The International Forum on One Korea 2017: Solutions to the l<nrAnn Pi::min~ , 1ln r.ri~i~ nn NnvAmhAr 14- l!’i wn ~ rnnvA n A rl nt

the Dirksen Senate Building and the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. The forum w as sponsored by by the Global Peace Foundation, Action for Korea United, EastWest Institute, and One Korea Foundation in part nership with the National Unification Advisory Council of the Republic of Korea.

Related Articles 026 AKU~~!!!~~~l~2I t!~2I !l! ~a !,

AKU’s Innovative Japan-China-Korea North Korean Escapees Approaches for… Film Collaboration… Lead a Citizen… ~ Global Peace Foundation I ~ Ayo Goto I O February 27, 2026 ~ Kiho Sano I O January 29, 2026 0 March 11, 2026 One Korea Global Campaign, One Korea Global Campaign, One Korea Global Campaign Japan Korea

The unification movement On March 1, 2019, marking the The peaceful unification of t he should be more about the 100th anniversary of the Korean Peninsula cannot be vision than political process. e March 1st Independence achieved through political vision by all means regardless Movement that arose on the negotiat ions alone. It … of any political difficulties. A Korean .. READ MORE strong and broad civil base is READ MORE a key groundwork for peaceful unification. An address by lnteck Seo, Co- chair, Action for Korea United

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To commem orate Recent Posts World Interfaith Harmony Week,we have Muslim and Christion women gather for on Interfaith been Ramadan program in Nigeria. highlighti ng the interfaith peacebuilding initiatives of the Global Peace Foundation (GPF). This week, we are turning our attention towards the women who have been bridging divides and bringing communities together through empathy, service, and moral courage.

At GPF, women are not just participants and beneficiaries of peacebuilding programs; they Donate to Freedom o1 Conscience. Religion a11 are agents of peace and change, particularly in Belief Nigeria, where women have been instrumental in nurturing peace and social cohesion. As ✓ Onetime Monthly mothers, educators, caregivers, and community leaders, women often are the first responders to Choose a one-time amount conflict and its consequences. In an effort to $100 promote interfaith harmony in Nigeria, GPF Nigeria created spaces for women from different $25 $10 backgrounds through their program, ‘Interfaith Ramadan Palliatives Distri bution for Peace and USD ..,. Other UnitY. Initiative’.

Done in collaboration with the Kukah Center, the program brought the Christian and Muslim communities, previously impacted by religious violence, toqether to reconnect with each other,

embracing their religious differences. As Maryam Continue Ibrahim said, “I am happy to reunite with my Christian friends whom I haven’t seen in years FAQs. due to past conflicts. This program has reminded us that we are all one family”. In January 2026, women were central to the capacity-building workshop on Freedom of Religion or Belief in Nigeria.

Likewise, women have been building peace from their homes, extending Group exercise during the capacity-building workshop on Freedom of Religion or Belief in Nigeria it to their communi ties, societies, and nations. The Peace Begins in the Home initiative, in collaboration with Global Peace Women (GPW), GPF has been extending harmony nurtured in values-based peacebuilding that begins at home with moral and innovative leadership.

Peace is not approached as a one- time event, but as an ongoing process sustained through trust, care, and shared responsibility. Through regular programs, interactions, service projects, and activities, women come together to reinforce peace despite differences. Through its initiatives, GPF advances its vision of One Family Under God and helps resolve conflicts and divisions, starting from the ground up, in communities and families. GPF creates inclusive platforms for dialogue, trust building, and collaborative action, where women can come together for peace and change.

As we reflect during World Interfaith Harmony Week, the role of women in P-eacebuilding deserves renewed recognition and support. Their leadership and participation strengthen communities from within and ensure that interfaith harmony is woven into everyday life rather than confined to symbolic observances.

Global Peace Foundation remains committed to advancing women’s leadership in its interfaith initiatives and programs rooted in social connection, community engagement, and sustained dialogue. By empowering women, GPF helps build a future where peace is lived across faiths, across communities, and across generations. As we commemorate the World Interfaith Harmony Week, we honor women who have been instrumental in our peacebuilding initiatives.

Join us as we advance our peacebuilding activities to advance interfaith harmony.

Women at the Heart of A Year of Interfaith Washington D.C. Interfaith … Harmony in Action:… Dialogue on … • Anu Lama I O February 26, 2026 • Anu Lama I O February 19, 2026 • Global Peace Foundation I Freedom of Conscience, Freedom of Conscience, 0 February 10, 2026 Religion, and Belief, Nigeria Religion, and Belief, Brazil, Freedom of Conscience, Cambodia, Guatemala, India, Religion, and Belief, Nigeria, To commemorate World Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Kenya, United States Interfaith Harmony Week, we Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia, have been highlighting the Nepal, Nigeria, Paraguay, Senior Christian, Muslim, and

interfaith peacebuilding Phil ippines, Tanzania, Thailand, traditional rulers appealed for Uganda, United States, Uruguay support to address escalating initiatives … violence that .. In commemoration of World READ MORE Interfaith Harmony Week this READ MORE February, we are highlighting the work of the Global Peace …

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Across underserved and off- grid communities in Central Luzon, the Global Peace Foundation ( GPF) Philippines continues to advance a development Recent Posts model rooted in service, shared responsibility, and the vision of One Family under God. Emerging from earlier GPF initiatives that recognized how the lack of electricity perpetuated education gaps and economic exclusion in marginalized communities, the All- Lights Villag!L(ALV) initiative was conceived as a practical, scalable response to energy poverty, beginning with the simple but transformative provision of solar lighting and expanding into a holistic community development platform.

Donate to Community driven Peacebuilding All- Lights Village com m unities participating in the evaluation ✓ Onetime Monthly As a flagship expression of the mission of the Global Choose a one-time amount Peace Foundation to foster ethical leadership, strengthen families, and empower communities as $100 drivers of their own transformation, ALV addresses energy access, education barriers, and livelihood $25 $10 vulnerability among low- income families, particularly Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program USD • Other (4Ps) beneficiaries, by convening local government units, national agencies, schools, and community associations to deliver sustainable, community- owned solutions that illuminate homes while building the foundations for long- term self- reliance and social cohesion.

Continue Institutional partnerships FAQs~ have been a cornerstone of this approach. Through strengthens d collaboratio n with local government units and formal accreditatio n processes, All- Lights Village communities participating in the GPF evaluation Philippines has secured a recognized role within local education and development councils. This institutional integration ensures that its initiatives are not one- time charitable interventions but are embedded within public systems, contributing to long-term, policy- aligned impact in education and community development.

GPF Philippines has also deepened its engagement with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD ), renewing its license as an Auxiliary Social Welfare and Development Agency and formalizing multi-year partnerships with several field offices. Through collaboration with the 4Ps National Program Management Office, the All- Lights Village model is being aligned with national poverty alleviation strategies, opening the door to broader implementation and systemic scale.

On the ground, the impact is tangible. In multiple off-grid communities, families have received solar lamps and communities have benefited from the installation of solar streetlights. These simple yet transformative interventions extend study hours for children, enhance safety and mobility at night, and create new opportunities for social interaction and productivity. Monitoring visits confirm not only the functionality of installations but also meaningful changes in daily life, children studying comfortably at home, families gathering in illuminated communal spaces, and communities reporting improved safety after dark.

Yet the work goes beyond lighting homes. Through facilitated discussions and values- based capability sessions, families are ----· ___ ,.,. ,..,.

to identify All-lights Village communities participating in the evaluation livelihood opportunitie sand take ownership of their development. Communities have highlighted pathways such as organic farming, pig raising, handicraft production, herbal medicine cultivation, coco jam processing, mushroom farming, and small-scale retail enterprises. By organizing and registering AL V associations with accredited government agencies, GPF Philippines helps communities access technical support, training, and funding opportunities from many local institutions (DOLE, DOST, DA, TESDA, BFAR, DENR, DTI, CDA, and DepEd). This integrated approach strengthens both economic resilience and civic participation.

Recognition from the Department of Education Regional Office Ill further affirms the organization’s role as a trusted partner in advancing inclusive and quality education. Through programs that integrate energy access, values formation, and community engagement, GPF Philippines supports learners not only with resources but with the moral and social foundations necessary for responsible citizenship.

Community Development Program Director Jocelyn Remigio and Program Coordinator Shaira Osorio at the Regional Stake holders’ Appreciation Program

This holistic model reflects Global Peace Foundation’s broader Development and Service framework, an approach that combines character and leadership development, social cohesion, and community empowerment. Interfaith leadership is fostered through modular peace education; families are strengthened through capacity- building seminars; and a culture of service is cultivated through collaborative projects and shared responsibility. Rather than positioning beneficiaries as passive recipients, the program emphasizes dignity, ownership, and collective action.

The resu lt is a growing network of grassroots leaders and organized community associations capable of sustaining progress beyond initial project implementation. By embedding p rograms within government systems, formalizing partnerships, and nurturing local leadership, GPF Philippines advances a development paradigm grounded in service, one that empowers families to become responsible stewards of their communities and active contributors to national transformation.

In lighting homes, strengthening institutions, and

moo111z1ng ram111es, me (,jt-’t- t-’n111pp1nes commun1ry Development Program exemplifies how service- driven development can foster resilience, opportunity, and shared prosperity.

Learn more about, and support GPF’s work in DeveloP-ment and Service.

Explore more about GPF’s work in the PhiliP-P-ines.

GPF Uganda Advances Illuminating Peaceful Democratic… Communities: GPF … Celebrating the • Wairimu Mwangi I O March 2, e Wairimu Mwangi I O March 11, International Day of… 2026 Community-driven 2026 • Robin McDonough I O March 4, Peacebuilding, Uganda Community- driven 2026 Peacebuilding, Philippines Community- driven In a sign ificant milestone, Peocebuilding, Nigeria Across underserved and off- Global Peace Foundation g rid communities in Central The Global Peace Foundation ( GPF) Uganda, alongside the Luzon, t he Global Peace (GPF) Nigeria marked the European Union, was Foundation ( GPF) Ph ilippines … International Day of accredited as .. Coexistence at the Women READ MORE READ MORE Multipurpose …

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l GPF Uganda Advances Peaceful1 1 Democratic Practice in the 202s; L Elections ~ ~ Wairimu Mwangi I March 2, 2026 I 1__I ,, UBC T 7 JJl r … r ..-i9r-..

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In a a significan t Recent Posts milestone ,Global Peace Foundatio Milto n Kambula discusses effort s for peac ebuilding in n (GPF) Uganda. Uganda, alongside the European Union, was accredited as one of only two international organizations mandated to serve as National Election Observers in the recently concluded 2026 general elections in Uganda. This accreditation highlighted GPF Uganda’s long- standing credibility, impartiality, and trusted role in advancing peaceful, transparent, and credible democratic processes.

Through its Family Strengthening and Peace Donate to Community Education (FSPE) Programme, GPF Uganda driven Peacebuilding

played a pivotal role throughout the electoral ✓ Onetime Monthly cycle, engaging political actors, electoral institutions, security agencies, faith leaders, civil Choose a one-time am o unt society, media, and communities across the country. GPF Uganda’s work focused on $100 preventing electoral violence, strengthening social cohesion, and reinforcing democratic $25 $10 values rooted in moral leadership and shared USD ..,. Other responsibility.

Supporting Electoral Integrity and Peaceful Participation

During the campaig Continue n and -1 …-1-:--

1:::11:C:~llUII FAQs~ period, GPF Religious and community leaders come together to Uganda launch the Uganda for Peace campaign. deployed trained personnel and volunteers nationwide to observe political activities and promote adherence to electoral guidelines. GPF Uganda provided technical guidance to the Electoral Commission, contributing to the development and enforcement of clear standards used to assess the conduct of candidates, supporters, security agencies, and media.

GPF Uganda also facilitated harmonization processes among presidential, parliamentary, and local council candidates to reduce tensions linked to overlapping campaign schedules and contested political spaces. In parallel, volunteers and field reporters were inducted on international election observation standards, human rights reporting, and ethical data collection, ensuring professionalism and credibility in field reporting.

Convening National Stakeholders for Peace

A cornerstone of GPF Uganda’s intervention was the National Peace Conference held on December 11, 2025, in Kampala. The conference brought together sixty key election stakeholders from across government, political parties, religious and cultural institutions, civil society, media, business, and security agencies.

The forum provided a platform for national dialogue on peaceful elections and accountability. Senior representatives from the Uganda Police Force, Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, Electoral Commission, Uganda Human Rights Commission, and the Government publicly reaffirmed their commitment to professionalism, non- partisanship, and respect for human rights. A distinguished former prime minister of Uganda urged the nation to break the historical cycle of electoral violence and commit to peaceful democratic transitions.

At the conference, GPF Uganda President and Peace Service Ambassador, Amb. Kambula Milton was among the signatories to the National Peace Declaration 2025, committing all stakeholders to peaceful campaigns and respect for electoral outcomes.

Nationwide Peace Messaging and Public Engagement

To deepen public awareness and civic responsibility, GPF Uganda led sustained peace campaigns through national radio and television platforms. With donated airtime, weekly broadcasts reached communities across the country, promoting peaceful participation, unity across political and religious divides, and the vision of One Family Under God. Over the course of three months, these media engagements

reached an estimated 255,000 people.

Complementing media outreach, GPF Uganda strengthened stakeholder relationships through cross-sector engagements and symbolic gestures, including the distribution of over 2,500 end-of-year cards to partners nationwide. These efforts reinforced trust, collective ownership, and continued engagement in peacebuilding initiatives.

Anchoring Elections in Moral Leadership and Strong Families

GPF Uganda’s election engagement was grounded in three core pillars: moral and innovative leadership, strengthening families as the school of love and peace, and interfaith and cross-sector collaboration. Leaders at all levels were challenged to understand leadership as service, guided by integrity, accountability, and universal moral principles.

Families were emphasized as the foundation of peaceful societies, with parents encouraged to model civic responsibility, ethical leadership, and peaceful political participation. Youth were mobilized as key stakeholders in Uganda’s democratic future, encouraged to reject violence, participate responsibly, and contribute to peace through service, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Impact and Looking Ahead

By the conclusion of the 2026 elections, GPF Uganda’s interventions had directly and indirectly impacted more than 255,000 people nationwide. Over 200 political candidates, 100 security officers, and 237 Electoral Commission officials were influenced by GPF’s peacebuilding and governance messaging. Partnerships across political, religious, cultural, and institutional lines were strengthened, contributing to improved coordination and mutual accountability.

The programme’s impact extended beyond the electoral period, rekindling national unity, reawakening families to their moral responsibility, repositioning youth as builders of peace, and reviving African values such as Ubuntu. With plans to produce a comprehensive post- election report, GPF Uganda aims to contribute lessons and best practices to guide future elections in Uganda and serve as a model for peaceful democratic processes across the region.

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GPF Uganda Advances Illuminating Peaceful Democratic… Communities: GPF… Celebrating the e Wairimu Mwangi I O March 2, • Wairimu Mwangi I O March 11, International Day of… 2026 Community-driven 2026 • Robin McDonough I O March 4, Peacebuilding, Uganda Community-driven 2026 Peacebuilding, Philippines Community-driven In a significant milestone, Peacebuilding, Nigeria Across underserved and off- Global Peace Foundation grid communities in Central The Global Peace Foundation ( GPF) Uganda, alongside the

Luzon, the Global Peace (GPF) Nigeria marked the European Union, was

Foundation ( GPF) Philippines … International Day of accredited as … Coexistence at the women READ MORE READ MORE Multipurpose ..

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Would you spend a week deep in the forest without a electricity, cell service, and soft beds? Recent Posts That’s exactly what 10 Global Peace Volunteers ( GPV) signed up for-leaving behind the convenience of modern life to spend seven days in the hills of Kuala Lipis, building a gravity-fed water system for an Orang Asli village in Ulu Semul.

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Global Pea ce Volu nteers in Ulu Semul Monthly

Organized by Global Peace Foundation Malaysia Choose a one-time amount with support from Yayasan Hasanah, this seven- day project went beyond the task of building a $100 water system. It became an experience shaped by human connection and where physical labour gave $25 $10 way to shared purpose. USD “’ Other In fact, in the quiet hours of work and rest, many discovered that resilience grows stronger in the presence of community, and that’s what we are happy to share with everyone today.

Global Peace Volunteers in Ulu Sem ul

One village, One Goal

Set among the dense green landscape of Kuala Li pis, Pa hang, the village had long depended on an inconsistent and aging water system. Leaks, broken pipes, an old system, and unsafe routes meant some villagers still collected water from rivers or rain, which meant the need for a safer, more reliable water source had become urgent.

That’s where the GPV team came in.

Under the guidance of Sylvia and Jo, our on-site partners and technical lead, along with Jaclyn, a returning volunteer turned facilitator, the group was tasked with building the dam as well as repairing and extending the water system, a project that required both physical endurance and mental resilience. The villagers worked alongside the volunteers from the very beginning, helping to carry materials and guide the group through the terrain they knew best. By the end of the week, the sense of accomplishment was not just in seeing water flow again but in the shared effort that made it happen.

“Living off-grid without the internet made me reflect on the difference between what I think I need and what I truly need. It hit me that the things I often overlook or complain about back home are the very things these villagers long for and would cherish deeply. This experience expanded my view of the world. I realized how much I didn’t know until I stepped beyond my comfort zone.” - Pheona

Read Pheona’s article here (Clean Water Seems OrdinarY. for Many, but Scarce for Others).

Globa l Peace Volunteers in Ulu Semul

From strangers to a team

The volunteers hailed from many different states. Among them, we had Safeer, an international student and our own GPV alumni, and Batrisyia, returning for her fourth volunteering program. Some were students, others were young professionals. Many had never been to an Orang Asli village or built a water system before, yet together they quic kly grew into an amazing, capable team.

“What I enjoyed most was collaborating with the villagers to build the water system. I learned so much about laying pipes, constructing the dam, and how vital teamwork really is. It also gave me a deeper appreciation for rural life and how much difference a little help can make.” - Norley

Days started early, with the buzz of the forest and the clanking of tools. Volunteers hiked to the water source, cut through undergrowth, cleared paths, and laid out pipelines.

The first major task took place at the dam site. The team transported bags of soil, sand, and cement to the remote location. The work was repetitive and physical, of course, but it also brought so much experience.

Later, the focus shifted to the piping system. The water pipes were thick and heavy, coiled in massive rolls that required physical strength for people to move. It was the kind of teamwork that felt almost choreographed, like pushing a giant wheel through the forest. Still, the task never felt overwhelming. Everyone helped: men, women, even children.

There was no division of roles, only a shared sense of responsibility. The atmosphere was communal. If someone grew tired, others stepped in. Under the sun, with little shade, the work demanded both focus and stamina.

Despite the conditions, the spirit of the team never wavered. What began as a group of strangers had, by the end of the week, become something much closer, a team of volunteers shaped by shared purpose and mutual respect!

Something unforgettable somehow always comes through food. It’s not an everyday occurrence where we get the chance to eat in a simple setting at the same place we camp out for work construction. What made it even more special was the touch of tradition that gave the moment its meaning, lunch served in wrapped leaves, with rice, sambal, bamboo shoots, and hot broth with meat, all lovingly prepared toget her.

Global Pea ce Volunteers in Ulu Semul

Not without challenges

The journey wasn’t without its trials. Muddy and challenging trails, sore muscles, and a lack of electricity tested everyone’s endurance. With limited cell service, one often had to stand at one precise spot just to stay connected; one step away and the reception would fade. But every challenge hP.r.nmP. n stnrv. nnrl P.VP.rv nhstnr.lP. hP.r.nmP. nnrt

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of the shared experience.

“One of the most powerful lessons came from water itself. In the city, we take it for granted, but here, it’s survival. Building the dam from scratch helped me understand the effort and struggle behind every drop of clean water.” - Luqman

Global Peace Volunteers in Ulu Semul

A farewell and a beginning

As the final water pipe was fitted and the last tank secured, the team gathered for a farewell dinner, a simple, joyful celebration of hard work, along with community in celebrating one shared purpose.

“Ulu Semul taught us that kindness doesn’t need words, it lives in quiet gestures and open hearts. When the water finally flowed, so did hope. This village is no longer just a place we visited, but a home we’ll carry with us always.” - Jamuel

Global Peace Volunteers at the end of the 7- day gravity- fed water system project

Beyond the project, WHAT’S NEXT?

The GPV program is a JOURNEY. In fact, it’s a leap into the community and into services. Often time we may think we are there to “GIVE” yet without fail, we always “RECEIVE”. Be it friendship, perspectives, c hallenges, or gratitude - it all c ame full c ircle in the spirit of making a difference.

It reminds us that making a difference doesn’t always happen in big moments; sometimes, it happens when you carry a pipe up a slippery hill and feel the w eight of purp ose in your hands and share a m eal with those who welcomed you a s family.

At the end of the day, you don’t need much to make a difference, just the courage to show up and give your best.

Sp ecial a c knowledgement to Yayasan Hasanah for supporting this initiative

A week of grit and Celebrating Youth as GPF Advances giving in Ulu Semul, … Today’s Peacebuilder … Comprehensive… e Sofia Aminudin I O March 9, • Robin McDonough I O March 6, e Wairimu Mwangi I O February 2026 2026 10, 2026 Youth Leadership Development, Youth Leadership Development, Youth Leadership Development, Malaysia Kenya Tanzania

would you spend a week The Global Peace Foundation Global Peace Foundation deep in the forest without ( GPF) Kenya values youth as ( GPF) Tanzania is electricity, cell service, and today’s peacebuilders and strengthening peacebuilding soft beds? That’s exactly what tomorrow’ s leaders. The and community development 10 .. through … READ MORE READ MORE READ MORE

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The a Global Peace Recent Posts Foundatio I n (GPF) Kenya values youth as today’s GPF Kenya w ith Ms. Charity Maino of Sofy Global peacebuil ders and tomorrow’s leaders. The organization sponsored a variety of youth-oriented activities during the month of January 2026, focusing on the essential role of young people as environmental stewards, the unifying power of competitive sports, and the importance of transformative education rooted in shared values and inclusion. These events underscored the collective power of young Donate to Youth Leaders people to foster peaceful coexistence and social Development cohesion. Monthly On January 19, GPF Kenya and the Chandaria Foundation partnered to honor Truphena Choose a one-time am o unt Muthoni, a young Kenyan woman who holds the world record of 72 hours for continuous tree $100 hugging. Acknowledging Ms. Muthoni’s contribution to youth leadership and $25 $10 commitment to environmental stewardship, the USD ..,. Other Chandaria Foundation awarded her a 100,000- capacity tree nursery to be established at a school of her choice. The award supports the Chandaria Tree Nursery Initiative, aligned with Kenya’s national goal of growing 1.5 billion trees by 2032, and positions Ms. Muthonia as a Climate Champion under the President’s Fellowship - Chandaria Legacy Award Initiative. Continue

Further, GPF Kenya and the Chandaria FAQs~ Foundation are making steady progress in their launch of the 19th Chandaria Tree Nursery at Matuga Girls High School prior to the official launch. GPF Kenya acknowledges the significant work of the Chadaria Foundation, school leadership, and the young women who have gained practical skills in conservation, leadership, and long-term climate resilience in progressing this environmental sustainability initiative.

GPF Kenya African Regional Represent ative Daniel Juma Omondi joined national leaders Students at the Anatolia International School Cultural on KBC’s Event Good Morning Kenya on January 21 to highlight the essential role of youth in fostering peace and social cohesion in their communities. The live discussion focused on sports as a key activity to bridge differences among young people, creating a collaborative environment where dialogue, shared values, and collective responsibility enable them to dismantle longstanding social barriers to bring about transformative change and long- term stability.

Additionally, on January 23, Mr. Omondi was a guest of honor at the Anatolia International School Cultural event to commemorate the International Day of Education, where he joined Professor Macharia Munene (USIS- A) and Mr. Arden (Harmony Institute) to celebrate cultural diversity, inclusivity, youth leadership, and shared values. During his keynote address, Mr. Omondi highlighted GPF’s Transformative Education Initiative, advocating for education systems that nurture the “whole student” with a focus on character, leadership, life skills, and the use of digital technology to prepare for the modern economy. Commending the Anatolia International School for their holistic approach to education, converging culture, and peacebuilding, he emphasized equal access to education for women and girls as a necessary component to achieve sustainable peace.

Concludi ng the month of January, GPF Kenya participat edinthe

tOSI Africa Sports Diplomac GPF’s Africa Regional Representative. Mr. Daniel Juma yand Omandi, speaking at the “Play far Peace• event “Play for Peace” Youth Tournament at Zetech University, Mang’u Campus from January 26 to 31. Highlighting the unifying power of sports, the event brought together diverse young people from across the continent to play football to create unity, cooperation, and sustainable peace. During the event, Mr. Omondi participated in a high-level panel titled “Peace Building: Youth as Ambassadors of Peace,” where he emphasized that genuine peace is rooted in “inclusion, justice, and dignity.” Emphasizing the role of sports in diplomacy, he urged the participants to carry forward into their everyday lives the shared values of teamwork, mutual respect, and ethical leadership gained from their participation in sports.

GPF Kenya is committed to empowering young people to become today’s peacebuilders and tomorrow’s moral and innovative leaders. The organization will continue collaborating with partners to create opportunities where the nation’s youth are supported in their drive to learn and grow in a collaborative and inclusive environment.

A week of grit and Celebrating Youth as GPF Advances giving in Ulu Semul, … Today’s Peacebuilder … Comprehensive… • Sofia Aminudin I O March 9, • Rabin McDonough I O March 6, • Wairimu Mwangi I O February 2026 2026 10, 2026 Youth Leadership Development, Youth Leadership Development, Youth Leadership Development, Malaysia Kenya Tanzania

Would you spend o week The Global Peace Foundation Global Peace Foundation deep in the forest without (GPF) Kenya values youth as (GPF) Tanzania is elect ricity, cell service, and t oday’s peocebuilders and strengt hening peocebuilding soft beds? That’s exactly what tomorrow’s leaders. The … and community development 10 .. t hrough … READ MORE READ MORE READ MORE

Global Peace Foundation Contact About Us Washington, DC Where We Work 9320 Annapolis Road, What We Do Suite 100 News Lanham, MD 20706 Events info@globalpeace.org Donate Careers

For media inquiries please contact: medla@globalpeace.org GPF is a 501(c)3 registered nan- sectarian, non- partisan, nonprofit organization. Follow Us Charity ID: 26- 4599860 f ¾ @Jina Privacy Policy I Nondiscrimination Notice