Nobel Peace Prize laureate and prominent human rights advocate Tawakkol Karman addressed young leaders at the PeaceJam Youth Conference in Monrovia, Liberia, from December 6-8, 2024.
The conference, organized by the PeaceJam Foundation, brought together youth from across the region to foster peacebuilding and leadership skills.
During her motivational address, Karman emphasized the crucial role of young people in driving positive change within their communities. She urged attendees to embrace ambitious goals, stating, "Dream big. You have to see what you believe in. If you are hesitant, you will not be able to achieve your dream." She further lauded those who "dare to dream and do not stop dreaming," assuring them that perseverance leads to the realization of their aspirations.
Karman's message extended beyond individual ambition, focusing on practical action and community engagement. She encouraged participants to actively contribute to solutions for local and global challenges, leveraging their energy and resources to effect meaningful change. She highlighted the importance of empowering women in all sectors, particularly politics and civil society.
Addressing issues of social justice, Karman discussed poverty, oppression, and inequality in both the Arab world and Africa, advocating for global justice and equality.
The PeaceJam Foundation, established in 1996 by a group of Nobel Peace Prize laureates including the Dalai Lama, aims to empower young people worldwide through education in tolerance, understanding, and conflict resolution. Karman's participation underscores the organization's commitment to engaging youth in global peacebuilding efforts.
