Introduction
I had the opportunity to participate as a representative from Bangladesh in the Young Ambassadors of Peace in Asia (YAPA) 2017 Training Programme, organised by the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA). The training programme was held from 29 May to 2 June 2017 at the CCA Headquarters at Payap University in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
The programme brought together young participants from different Asian countries with the aim of strengthening their understanding, skills, and commitment to peacebuilding in their respective communities and societies.
Training and Learning Experience
During the five-day training programme, I received training on intercultural and interfaith learning, which provided an important foundation for understanding diversity and addressing conflicts in multicultural and multi-religious societies.
The sessions helped me develop a deeper understanding of the importance of respecting different cultures, religions, beliefs, identities, and perspectives. Through interactive learning, discussions, group activities, and sharing of experiences among participants from different Asian contexts, I was able to appreciate both the challenges and opportunities that cultural and religious diversity presents.
A major focus of the programme was conflict transformation. I learned that sustainable peace requires more than simply ending visible conflict; it also requires addressing the underlying causes of conflict, building mutual understanding, promoting justice, and creating opportunities for dialogue and cooperation.
Interfaith and Intercultural Learning
One of the most valuable aspects of the YAPA training was the opportunity to learn alongside young people from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. This experience encouraged me to look beyond stereotypes and preconceived ideas and to recognise the value of dialogue and mutual respect.
The intercultural and interfaith learning process strengthened my ability to listen to different perspectives and communicate respectfully with people whose backgrounds and experiences may differ from my own. I came to understand that diversity can be a source of strength when people engage with one another through openness, empathy, and mutual respect.
Role as a Peacebuilder
The training also encouraged participants to reflect on their responsibilities as young people and peacebuilders within their respective societies. I was inspired to consider how the knowledge and skills gained through the programme could be applied in my own community in Bangladesh.
As a participant from Bangladesh, I recognised the importance of promoting peaceful coexistence, dialogue, tolerance, and understanding among people of different cultural and religious backgrounds. The programme motivated me to contribute to peacebuilding initiatives and to encourage young people to become active agents of positive social change.
Personal Reflection
Participating in YAPA 2017 was a meaningful and enriching experience for me. It expanded my understanding of peacebuilding and provided me with practical knowledge about intercultural communication, interfaith understanding, and conflict transformation.
The opportunity to meet and learn from young people from different parts of Asia also broadened my perspective and strengthened my sense of regional solidarity. I realised that although Asian societies have diverse histories, cultures, religions, and social contexts, young people across the region share a common responsibility to promote peace, understanding, and cooperation.
Conclusion
My participation in the YAPA 2017 Training Programme, organised by the Christian Conference of Asia in Chiang Mai, Thailand, was an important milestone in my personal and social development as a young peacebuilder.
The training equipped me with greater awareness of intercultural and interfaith relations and strengthened my understanding of conflict transformation. Most importantly, it encouraged me to apply these learnings in my own society and to continue contributing to initiatives that promote peace, dialogue, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated in YAPA 2017 and to have learned from fellow young peacebuilders across Asia. The experience continues to inspire my commitment to building a more peaceful, inclusive, and understanding society.