AKES, Pakistan students participate in Seeds of Peace Camp
Three students from the Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan School, Karachi, Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Kharadhar and Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Karachi attended the Seeds of Peace Camp in Maine, United States. Students experienced a transformative journey developing skills of peace, leadership and communication.
Seeds of Peace is a non-profit organisation dedicated to equipping exceptional youth and educators with skills and connections to create more equal and inclusive societies. The organisation focuses on the personal transformation of young people in communities divided by conflict. It also hosts a leadership development programme each year in Maine to foster the development of young peacemakers and future leaders around the world through a unique communication approach known as “dialogue”.
“Seeds of Peace offered me the opportunity to acquire peace-making skills, forge lifelong friendships and engage in meaningful dialogues,” said Ilham Karim, the student from the Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan School, Karachi. “It’s an experience beyond words!”
The students attended the camp from 27 July to 15 August 2023 and participated in several activities themed on leadership, peace and connection-building. These included changemaker panels, talent shows, boat rides, the “Color Games”, a reflective practice called “Dear Self” and so much more.
“Seeds of Peace in Maine instilled in me leadership, teamwork and heightened confidence,” said Gomati Deepak Kumar, the student from Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Kharadhar. “The transformative power of dialogue reshaped my perspectives. It’s an honour to have been a part of this incredible journey.”
Syeda Khadeja Shuja, the student from the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Karachi also reflected on the camp’s impact on her ambitions and connections.
“This camp realised my dreams,” she said. “I confronted fears, crafted indelible memories and discovered the potency of dialogue. Seeds of Peace reignited my aspirations and showcased their attainability.”
Photos (top to bottom):
- Camp members.
- Students standing together.
- One of the student taking part in an event.
- More camp members.
