Global Peace Leadership Exchange is an international program that gathers young leaders for a series of transformative learning activities in moral and innovative leadership development, connecting them to a global leadership network and empowering them to create sustainable peace and development in their communities.
In November 2019, there was a four-day Global Peace Leadership Exchange in Tokyo. Women leaders from Inner Wheel Clubs of Philippines International (IWCPI), educators, ambassadors, and youth leaders joined the event. There were various forums on education as well as forums on sustainable Peace and Development in Asia and Promoting Social Cohesion and Diversity for Sustainable Development Goals at Rikkyo University.
The representatives toured various locations in Tokyo, including the Philippine embassy in Roppongi, Minato City, where the deputy chief of the embassy greeted them. Afterward, at Tokyo International Exchange Center, the representatives from Japan and the Philippines took part in a sisterhood ceremony signing certificates to represent building peace between the Philippines and Japan. The representatives were shown the film, Jun Ai, an award-winning film that highlights the story of love and peace despite war and prejudice. That evening, the young leaders were invited to have dinner with the staff of the movie, including the lead actress and chair of the Jun Ai World Peace Foundation.
The group of educators toured Shotoku Gakuen Junior and Senior High School and received a short lecture on the Philippine National Anthem and culture. They also went to Rikkyo University, where they took part in a few classes. Meanwhile, the women leader’s group toured the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. On the fourth and final day, the representatives had the opportunity to be a part of a city tour at Shibuya.
The four-day exchange ended with the Multi-cultural One Family Festival showcasing foods and performances from Japan, Korea, Philippines, Bangladesh, and Bolivia. The Philippine delegation brought banana chips, polvorón, and peanuts. The women and educators group prepared a song and dance number. It was a joyful event that brought people from different backgrounds and races to celebrate being one family.
