Luxembourg, UK – The day consisted of three parts: an orientation followed by leadership training at the local Peace Embassy in Thornton Heath, South London from 10 a.m. until noon; a period of “Art Service” work; and finally, a special closing and reflection session.
After a welcome and introduction by youth leader Tanja Schmidt, the 30 participants listened to a number of inspiring talks given by community activists Omar Richards and Saffron Jackson. A special session on “How to Optimize Success!” was presented by Massimo Trombin of SFP Luxembourg. Thereafter, Marshall de Souza (RYS UK) divided the group into five teams and led them into designing their “vision for peace” posters, a worthwhile and rewarding experience for everyone!
A delicious lunch was provided by Franklin and Cecile Fortune of the Peace Embassy. Thereafter, most of the participants walked ten minutes down the road to the Mini VIP Nursery to work on painting a mural on the wall and fence of the nursery, while a handful of youth stayed behind to design and paint a beautiful banner entitled “Setting the Foundation for Peace.”
Everyone gathered back at the Peace Embassy for refreshments and a closing ceremony. Following two short reflections about the work accomplished, Cecile Fortune introduced our special guest, Linette Richards, a distinguished Ambassador for Peace, who said a few words, and then presented Certificates of Attendance to the 30 participants who spent this day together. In recognition of their valuable service to the community, Omar Richards and Jerome Walker were awarded Youth Ambassador for Peace certificates.
Tanja concluded the event by thanking everyone who came and invited them all to the Global Peace Festival to be held on Sunday, September 9, in Central London.
This one-day project produced a wonderful banner which portrays the cooperative spirit of this work, as well as a variety of beautiful murals at the nursery. So much was achieved in such a short period! As the banner team depicted, this group set the foundation for peace. Hopefully, more projects will be organized and more youth from different backgrounds will have the opportunity to work together, serve the community, make deep friendships and break down barriers in the process. This is true peace-building!!
September 11, 2007