Founder’s Message

Zakaria El Hamel – Founder & Director, Youth for Peace and Dialogue Between Cultures

Peace begins with awareness, and awareness begins with education. My journey as a peace and human rights advocate started with a simple belief: that young people, when empowered with knowledge and values, can become the most powerful force for positive change in the world.

Through Youth for Peace and Dialogue Between Cultures, we strive to inspire a new generation committed to dignity, dialogue, and mutual respect. Our work focuses on teaching young people the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, encouraging them to understand that human rights are not only legal principles but also a shared moral responsibility.

In a world increasingly marked by division and misunderstanding, dialogue between cultures, religions, and communities is more important than ever. Our mission is to build bridges between generations, between cultures, and between societies, so that young people grow up with a spirit of cooperation rather than conflict.

I am deeply grateful to the distinguished members of our international advisory board whose experience and dedication to peace, justice, and human dignity guide and inspire our work. Their commitment strengthens our vision of creating a global network of young leaders who stand for peace and human rights.

Morocco has long been a crossroads of civilizations and a place where cultures meet. Inspired by this heritage, we aim to contribute to a world where diversity is celebrated and where dialogue replaces fear and misunderstanding.

Our goal is simple but ambitious: to empower youth to become ambassadors of peace in their communities and beyond. By educating, connecting, and inspiring young people, we believe it is possible to build a more just and peaceful future for all.

As I often say:

“My dream is not just to change Morocco, but to inspire a generation that changes the world.”

Zakaria El Hamel