CASCAIS, PORTUGAL / ACCESSWIRE / November 27, 2024 / Kenyan organization “International Center for Peace, Human Rights and Development in Africa” is one of ten global grassroots initiatives recognized by the prestigious Intercultural Innovation Hub, a joint initiative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the BMW Group, implemented with the support of Accenture, during a Ceremony held in the framework of the 10th UNAOC Global Forum in Cascais, Portugal under the theme “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future – Reflecting on Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity”. The Forum convened prominent figures, political leaders, UN officials including the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, as well as representatives from civil society, academia, and the private sector, to share insights and reflect on the 20 years of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations’ impactful work.
Selected for its project, “Youth and Young Women Leaders Mediation and Regional Advocacy Initiatives,” IPHRD Africa fosters spaces for inclusive dialogue that promote peaceful coexistence and social cohesion. The initiative focuses on enhancing the participation of young women from marginalized communities in peace processes by equipping them with essential skills in conflict prevention and resolution. By utilizing innovative approaches such as training, mentorship, trauma healing, and the integration of culture, digital tools, and art therapy, the project enables young women to engage meaningfully in mediation efforts at both grassroots and regional levels. Additionally, the initiative empowers young women to train other youth, building a dynamic network of peacebuilders committed to conflict resolution and fostering social cohesion.
“The recognition of our project by the Intercultural Innovation Hub affirms the contribution of youth-led organizations in promoting sustainable peace and development. I believe this opportunity will help us amplify our work, replicate our efforts, and build more connections and networks with other organizations globally,” said Susan Wamalwa, Executive Director of IPHRD-Africa.
The Intercultural Innovation Hub supports grassroots initiatives that promote intercultural dialogue and understanding, thereby contributing to peace, cultural diversity, and more inclusive societies. This year’s Ceremony was chaired by Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, UN Under-Secretary-General and the High Representative for UNAOC, and Ms. Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG People and Real Estate, Labour Relations Director.
In addition to a financial grant, the International Center for Peace, Human Rights and Development in Africa (IPHRD-Africa) will receive one year of capacity-building and mentorship support from UNAOC, the BMW Group and Accenture, to help strengthen the “Youth and Young Women Leaders Mediation and Regional Advocacy Initiatives” project and its contribution towards a more inclusive society. This model of collaboration between the United Nations and the private sector creates a more profound impact, as partners provide their respective expertise to ensure the sustainable growth of each supported project.
Learn more about the project: https://interculturalinnovation.org/international-centre-for-peace-human-rights-and-development-in-africa-iphrd-africa-youth-and-young-women-leaders-mediation-and-regional-advocacy-initiatives
Media inquiries:
– Milena Pighi, TeamLead and Spokesperson Corporate Citizenship, BMW Group, Milena.PA.Pighi@bmw.de
– Mr. Alessandro Girola, Chief, Programming and Projects Unit, UNAOC, alessandro.girola@un.org
SOURCE: UNAOC
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