News

Invest in Peace: Building Peace in Our Communities

19th of September - Melbourne, Australia

The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and the Australian Peace Council brought together 60 community leaders, educators, multicultural representatives and peacebuilders for a special conference marking the United Nations International Day of Peace 2026.

Held under the UN theme “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day,” the conference explored how peace can be strengthened through practical action in our families, communities, schools and wider society. The programme emphasises that peace is not simply the absence of war, but a lived experience of safety, dignity, opportunity and cooperation.

A panel of Australian Peace Council members examined the role of everyday peacebuilders and how local action can contribute to stability and lasting peace. The panel was composed of: Dr John Bellavance (UPF), Kuol Malou Founder Third Space Narrative, Essan Dileri Senior Diversity and Intercultural Advisor at Melton City Council, Dr Degu Abebe Associate Professor International University of Health Sciences and Jacob Thang Founder and Chairperson Chin-Myanmar Community Care.

The keynote speaker - Uncle Chris Hume shared about the youth program he is leading as an Indigenous community leader fostering cultural wellbeing. Chris said that young indigenous men need to find who they are, their identity and belonging or else they will find it in society – drugs and alcohol.  The Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place Singing Group delighted all with their peaceful music.

The second panel focused on the importance of interfaith education in high schools. The topic – “Educational approaches for improving social cohesion - Rethinking our approach to religious education and interfaith in Australia”. The panel was composed of Kamlavathi Reddy – Monash Interfaith Gathering who shared about the recent Inaugural Monash Interfaith Schools Program. 300 students took part of this religious literacy program where seven faiths were presented by students. Mel Beal - Vice Principal (Student Community & Development) Huntingtower College shared her delight about how students could speak so well about religious traditions, and the shared values that exist among different traditions. The student led event contributed to mutual understanding and social cohesion in an increasingly diverse Australia.

 The conference also recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to peace internationally and community wellbeing through the Universal Peace Federation Ambassadors for Peace Award. Awards were presented to: Ambassador Dr. Sayed Fadlullah Fadel - a former Ambassador of Afghanistan to the Arab Republic of Egypt, Sivanthi Gurumurothy a respected community leader, multicultural advocate and humanitarian, and Chris and Heather Cosgriff tireless community advocates for reconciliation, and numerus local community service projects

Through dialogue, education, cultural understanding and community service, the conference highlights a central message: peace is everyone's responsibility. It is built by people, everywhere, every day.