Held in Surabaya, Indonesia from September 9-20, 2024 this two-week program gathered young leaders from around the world to engage in intercultural dialogue and explore Indonesia’s approaches to fostering peace and unity within a diverse, multi-religious society. The event provided participants with immersive experiences, including religious site visits, interactive workshops, and collaborative sessions focused on cultural resilience and interreligious understanding.

Through hands-on activities, Velarde and Almaden gained insights into Indonesia’s model of harmony, which is built on respect and inclusivity across various faiths and cultures. By participating in this global initiative, they have acquired valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied to promote resilience and cultural understanding in their own communities. Their participation highlights EVSU’s commitment to cultivating globally-minded students equipped to contribute to peacebuilding efforts and foster unity in increasingly diverse societies.