The 2-day PeaceFLIX International Conference & Award Ceremony serves as a platform that showcases the tireless efforts of Global Neighbourhood for Media Innovation (GNMI) and the East-West Centre (EWC) to amplify the narratives of vulnerable communities for a resilient and sustainable future. The conference honors the significant contribution of Pakistani women as key decision-makers in peacebuilding, alongside the crucial support provided by their male counterparts.
The event highlights their key roles in community-based peace initiatives and establish collaborations among global peacemakers, regional organizations, journalists, and local peacebuilders.
Suzanne Puanani Vares-Lum– President EWC, Christina Monroe – Director of alumni Engagement EWC, Ann Hatman – Dean of education program EWC and Gretchen Alther – Senior Manager of EWC Hawaii (US), high-ranked officials from the Government of Pakistan such as Ahsan Iqbal and Murtaza Solangi – Minister of information and Broadcasting, policymakers, civil society organizations and international peace experts Charlie Alan and Irene Satiago from Australia and the Philippines respectively, have graced the event with their physical presence and contributions.
Panel discussions are an integral part of the conference, where industry experts share insightful experiences. The first panel discussion focuses on “Media Diplomacy in Pakistan,” featuring Senior Journalist Mr. Hamid Mir, Senior Journalist Mr. Masood Raza, Dr. Moazzam Ali Hashmi from National Defense University, Senior Journalist Ms. Nayyar Ali, and Senior Journalist Mr. Haroon Rashid. They share their experiences and discuss how Media Diplomacy shapes peace narratives for regional stability, drawing on facts and personal insights.
Another panel discussion titled “The Ripple Effect” has included Senior Journalist Ms. Lubna Jerar, Mr. Ghulam Murtaza, Director of the Peace and Education Foundation, Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Director of Programs at Aurat Foundation, Mr. Hamayoun Khan, National Advisor at FES Pakistan, and Mr. Aftab Alam from IRADA. They have discussed local stories of defeating extremism and explored developments that can promote peace.
International experts Charlie Allen and Irene Santiago have conducted an interactive workshop for peacebuilders, students, and civil society members to explore significant components of promoting positive peace. This event has served as a pivotal moment for award recipients to showcase their exemplary peace action projects to an international audience and global peace experts. The collaborative environment has been designed to facilitate the exchange of innovative ideas and insights, thereby creating a supportive and transformative space for these dedicated individuals.
