DialogueON Pathways to Peace: Where is there hope for 2025?

On Monday 26th May, inspiring individuals from around the world joined for ODIF’s latest DialogueON webinar ‘Pathways to Peace’. The discussion was uplifting and deeply motivating. Special thanks go to the incredible Afu Foundation led by Destiny for co-organising the event.

At a time when communication and listening is struggling, this DialogueON created a space for hope. Our speakers Ashima Jha and Rebecca Irby brought extraordinary insights and vision.

Ashima stressed the importance of identifying the root causes of conflict from fragile governance to climate change. She compared violence to a chronic disease: diagnosable, preventable, and treatable. With conviction, she outlined how there are fault lines everywhere. Yet, her message was clear. Youth hold the potential for change. From local peace education to international cooperation, Ashima emphasised the need to invest in youth-led and grassroots movements. “Real peace,” she reminded us, “is not on livestream - it’s offline, built through listening and human connection”.

Founder of PEAC Institute and Nobel Peace Prize collaborator, Rebecca Irby spoke about the backlash to equity and the disillusionment felt by many young people today. But rather than despair, she challenged us to see this as a moment of profound opportunity. Rebecca highlighted how peace-building must be culturally relevant and youth-led, yet also intergenerational. Her message stressed that real change happens when people find their passion and connect it to purpose. So reach out! Connect with others!

This event included our fantastic audience through engaging and active dialogue. Participants raised vital questions: What can young people do? What role can diplomacy play in transforming conflicts? How can different stakeholders get involved? Can we built and maintain trust?

Both Ashima and Rebecca offered powerful responses. They affirmed the power of local leadership, the necessity of intersectional approaches, and the importance of never underestimating small, consistent efforts.

This DialogueON was a chance for action. We are very grateful to our partner at the Afu Foundation, our speakers, and every participant who made time for this conversation.

Let’s keep the momentum going. Join us in our push for dialogue. See you at the next DialogueON!

~Naomi Lea