Global Women’s Peace Network
21st Annual Women’s Leadership Conference
Women leading the Change:
towards Peacebuilding, Justice and Social Transformation
November 8th-10th, 2024
Venue: Regent Warsaw Hotel, Poland
Speakers and moderators Bio
Opening Banquet
Moderator: Ms. Marcia de Abreu, President, WFWP Spain President for over 20 years, experience in organizing conferences, seminars, women sisterhood ceremonies, charity events, contests, related to women’s issues; currently the Secretary General for WFWP Europe. She is originally from Brazil. Degree in Sociology from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Master in Religious Education at the Unification Theological Seminary, Barrytown, New York, USA. Married and has two children
Ms. Mitty Tohma, holds the position of a member on the WFWP International Executive Board and serves as the European President, managing initiatives across 32 countries while leading WFWP UK. As a dedicated proponent of women's rights and family values, she has coordinated significant conferences in the UK and EU Parliaments, tackling pressing issues such as violence and human dignity. Her efforts emphasise the empowerment of young women through education rooted in core values and humanitarian initiatives, including the '1% Love Share Project' and assistance for refugees impacted by conflict.
Ms. Moriko Hori, President, Women's Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI), President Japan WFWP, Director, International Service of WFWPI, with over 100 international cooperation projects. She is a graduate of Columbia University, USA, Bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology; graduate of Waseda University, Japan with the degree of M.A.; Ph.D. program in International Relations. Her special subject was Japan-Korea History Education and Reconciliation Studies; Senior Researcher and member of Board of Directors, Institute for Peace Policies (IPP); Co-President, Council for the Peace and the Reunification of Korean Peninsula in Nashimoto No Miya Memorial Foundation.
Ms. Danuta Przywara, President of the Council of the Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights. In the 1980s she was the mediator of the Mazovia Region's Mediation Committee at the famous "Solidarity" Independent Trade Union. In 1989 she became a co-founder of the Helsinki Foundation of Human Rights, over the Board of which she presided later for 13 years. For her contribution to the cause of building and developing democracy and democratic values in Poland, in addition, she was awarded the highest Polish orders by two Polish Presidents. In 2003 President Aleksander Kwaśniewski awarded her the Knight's Cross of the Order of Polonia Restituta. In 2011, President Bronisław Komorowski awarded her the Officer's Cross of that order.
Dr. Susana del Rio, Member of the Independent Experts Committee of the European Commission, European Union and Ambassador of Peace, Spain, Bachelor Degree in Geography and History, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. Doctor in Political Science and Sociology, University of the Basque Country. Extraordinary Doctoral Prize, PhD award in Social and Legal Sciences. Member of the Committee of Independent Experts of the European Commission and the European Parliament. Director of the 'EU Conversations' (???); series and Academic Advisor to Fide. Author of four books on European politics. Columnist for El Correo. New book Twelve European Women. Building the European Union, EUG, 2024 Recognised as an Ambassador for Peace by the Women’s Federation for World Peace, Spain. Lecturer on the EU in the Centre for Political and Constitutional Studies Master’s Programme.
Dr. Michael Balcomb, Chairman of Universal Peace Federation EUME, UK, Dr. Michael William Balcomb currently serves as the Regional Chair of the Family Federation for World Peace for the combined 72 nations of Europe, the Middle East and Eurasia. Most recently he served as the President of the Family Federation in the United States of America from 2013 to 2017. He was born in in 1957, educated in England and the United States.
He is also Chairman of Universal Peace Federation EUME. Dr. Balcomb and his wife Fumiko, a native of Japan, have five children — two girls and three boys —aged from 20 to 30, all still living in the United States, while Michael and Fumiko are now based in Europe.
Ms. Aleksandra Skonieczna, President, WFWP Poland; MA in Psychology & Linguistics, MBA, certified business trainer, DBT therapist. Aleksandra is a practicing psychologist, and has extensive experience in conducting various training programs and webinars.
Meditation: Dr. Tina Lindhard, originally from South Africa, has a profound passion for nature and embraces the indigenous teachings that stress respect for ancestors. She integrates these cultural influences with Arka Dhyana, an Intuitive Meditation method developed by Yogi Srinivas Arka. Holding a PhD in Consciousness Studies, Dr. Lindhard explores the intersections of consciousness and spirituality, drawing from her diverse experiences and backgrounds. Her work reflects a commitment to understanding the deeper aspects of human experience, blending traditional wisdom with modern insights to promote holistic well-being and spiritual growth.
Session I a: The Role of Education in Promoting Peace and Stability in Society
Moderator: Ms. Margoth Kalstad, WFWP Norway President, Education and work experience. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in journalism, and has worked as an editor for 15 years. College degree in “Gestalt Therapy “4 + 2 years, started to work as a gestalt psychotherapist in 2008. “Currently, I mostly do online counselling. Master’s degree in pastoral care, in order speak about purpose of life and purpose in life; am trained in grief counselling and suicide prevention; I am doing volunteer work at a suicide hotline in Norway and grief facilitator for grief group and individual grief work online, I have rained in Non-violent Communications, a method helpful to use in couple’s and family work. Workshops and talks on demand about topics from the field of my education and work interest.”
Dr. Aicha Bacha, President of the European Center for development and geostrategic studies and analysis Leaders, Secretary General of the World Movement of Pan-African Women. As a journalist, she focuses on subjects relating to migration, Islam, women of immigrant origin and the Moroccan community in Belgium. She obtained a doctorate in social and political sciences in 2017, and then decided to do a thesis at the Université Libre de Bruxelles on the mothers of jihadists. She went on to specialize in the role of women in preserving world peace, building women's capacities and empowering them economically, politically and socially.
Ms. Zofia Schacht-Petersen, Somatic and Developmental Trauma Therapist, language of Peace Trainer, Poland
Certified NVC trainer, mediator and family therapist in a systemic approach. Author of articles devoted to NVC, especially in the context of family relations, published in pedagogical and parenting magazines. Author of two books "Raising children without slap" (2006) and "Dialog instead of punishment" (2013). Founder of the School of Empathy and Dialogue.
Dr. Iris Dotan Katz, Clinical Psychologist, Israel, senior clinical psychologist with over 27 years of experience. She spécialises in therapy, organisationnel development, and spiritual practices to advocate for women's empowerment and social change. As a peace advocate, Dr. Katz actively participates in organizations that cultivate dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians, promoting reconciliation through compassion and prayer. Her work emphasizes the importance of understanding and collaboration in creating a more peaceful world.
Ms. Carol Burnnock Kim; WFWP Ireland Vice-President, is an experienced professional with a diverse background in education and therapeutic practices, currently completing her Master’s thesis in Child and Youth Studies at UCD. Presently she is engages in instructor training in Wellness Kinesiology. Her work experience includes roles as a private therapist, trainer, and educator, where she's focused on areas such as mental health, emotional well-being, and alternative therapies. Carol has co-founded several initiatives, including the Wicklow Sudbury School and Dublin College of Energy Medicine. She currently serves as vice president of WFWP Ireland. Her extensive qualifications range from psychiatric nursing to various holistic therapies, showcasing her commitment to personal development, education and community wellness.
Session I b: Steps Towards Reconciliation: ‘Peace Starts with Me’ and
‘The Bridge of Peace’
Moderator: Ms. Katerina Minolari, WFWP Albania President, is an experienced educator specializing in visual art, art history, curriculum writing, and instructional design. She has also led activities of WFWP Albania for over twenty years, coordinating projects and activities focused on women’s empowerment, promoting young leaders, peace education, and environmental protection.
Ms. Joanna Gaspar, Coach for Personal and Spiritual Development Program, France She is coach for a Polish personal and spiritual development programme. She accompanies participants in their transformation. She spoke this year 2024 at the occasion of the International Day of Women in a program organized by WFWP in Paris.
Ms. Carolyn HANDSCHIN, President, NGO Committee on the Status of Women at the United Nations in Geneva, Director of the WFWPI Office for United Nations Relations globally; has led their advocacy team at the United Nations in Geneva for 26 years, active on various committees and task forces, organizing conferences, writing and speaking on issues related to rights and protection of women and girls, the role of education in peace and security, engagement of youth and family for peacebuilding and development; developing the Human Rights internships and Model UN Youth Councils
Ms. Marcia de Abreu, President, WFWP Spain President for over 20 years, experience in organizing conferences, seminars, women sisterhood ceremonies, charity events, contests, related to women’s issues; currently the Secretary General for WFWP Europe. She is originally from Brazil. Degree in Sociology from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Master in Religious Education at the Unification Theological Seminary, Barrytown, New York, USA. Married and has two children
Session II: The Role of Women of Faith in Conflict Prevention and Peace Building
Moderator: Ms. Agneszka Rosa, WFWP Poland Vice-President, Ms. Agnieszka Rosa was born in Warsaw, Poland, where she has lived most of her life, apart from seven years in Germany. She holds a degree in English Philology from the University of Warsaw and works as an English teacher. Previously, Agnieszka served as the president of the Women’s Federation for World Peace in Poland and is now the vice president. Her dedication to women’s empowerment and peace initiatives reflects her commitment.
Ms. Moriko Hori, President, Women's Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI), President Japan WFWP, Director, International Service of WFWPI, with over 100 international cooperation projects. She is a graduate of Columbia University, USA, Bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology; graduate of Waseda University, Japan with the degree of M.A.; Ph.D. program in International Relations. Her special subject was Japan-Korea History Education and Reconciliation Studies; Senior Researcher and member of Board of Directors, Institute for Peace Policies (IPP); Co-President, Council for the Peace and the Reunification of Korean Peninsula in Nashimoto No Miya Memorial Foundation.
Meditation: Dr. Tina Lindhard, originally from South Africa, has a profound passion for nature and embraces the indigenous teachings that stress respect for ancestors. She integrates these cultural influences with Arka Dhyana, an Intuitive Meditation method developed by Yogi Srinivas Arka. Holding a PhD in Consciousness Studies, Dr. Lindhard explores the intersections of consciousness and spirituality, drawing from her diverse experiences and backgrounds. Her work reflects a commitment to understanding the deeper aspects of human experience, blending traditional wisdom with modern insights to promote holistic well-being and spiritual growth.
Ms. Soraya Ayouch, Psychologist for judicial protection of youth, France (`protection judiciaire de la jeunesse`), Researcher associated with the Centre de recherches psychanalyse, médecine et sociétés (CRPMS) at Paris-Diderot University. She is a devoted Sufi Muslim in connection with the teaching she received from a master of the Tarika Kadiryya Boutchichiyya, with which she is affiliated. She gave numerous conferences, she is active with Dialogue and Alliance, an interreligious organisation in France.
Ms. Faride Romano Hadid, Representative of Neve Shalom/Wahat as Salam, Spain, born in Mexico City in the 1950s, Faride is a seasoned journalist having worked as a news correspondent in Nicaragua during the Sandinista Revolution, in Colombia during the height of narcoterrorism and guerrilla warfare and in Israel during the 2006 Israel-Lebanon war. With deep commitment to peace building, Faride has been involved and has served during the past 8 years as the representative in Spain for Neve Shalom/Wahat as Salam-a unique community where Jewish and Palestinian families live and work together, teaching peace and equality for future generations. In addition, she is a core member of the Friends Association in France.
Having lived in 7 different countries, Faride has a unique perspective and deep understanding of cross-cultural dialogue and conflict resolution.
Session III: Empowering Communities: NGOs-led Relief Initiatives
for transforming Lives
Moderator: Ms. Amanda Toumanguelov, WFWP Ireland President, is a qualified Montessori teacher with a degree in design, specializing in ceramics and various mediums. Currently, she serves as the president of WFWP Ireland, where she utilizes her educational background and leadership skills to promote women's empowerment and community initiatives, nurturing a supportive environment for personal and collective growth. Her commitment to education and community development reflects her passion for making a positive impact, encouraging individuals to thrive and engage actively in their communities. Through her work, Amanda aims to inspire others and contribute to a more just society.
Dr. Asha Omar Geesdiir, doctorate in Political and Social Sciences, has over 20 years experience in policy related development, particularly in participatory development, advocacy, human rights, refugee welfare, good governance, constitutional development, education, and as an expert on conflict resolution, peace building and conflict management projects. " Her story" this month featured Asha Omar Geesdiir, a strong human activist from Somalia that spent many years in Sweden before returning back to Mogadishu Somalia as a special advisor to the government on women and children’s issues. She shared how the love in her family was the platform from which she could believe in herself and her ability to contribute to positive developments in her country.
Ms. Iryna Gould, Founder of London Ukrainian Symphony Orchestra, Iryna Gould is a Ukrainian-born British composer, conductor, and educator, known for founding the London Ukrainian Symphony Orchestra. Her diverse works span from orchestral, choral, to ballet compositions, driven by her belief in the inspiring power of music. She established Voice for Ukraine UK, aiding music schools and providing therapy to those affected by war. A collaboration with the Ukrainian Radio Symphony Orchestra underscores her impact on classical music. Her ballet, The Secret Life of Dolls, was recently presented at the "Music for Children" conference in Poland.
Ms. Aleksandra Iwanowska, Ph.D., Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights, Poland
Member of the Board. A graduate of the Faculty of Law and Faculty of Philology of the University of Białystok, Aleksandra holds a doctoral degree in law. In 2012-2017, she worked for the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture at the Office of the Ombudsman, and since 2016 has been a co-chair of the NMPT Committee of Experts. Since 2018, Aleksandra has been affiliated with the Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights where she works as an expert in areas such as strategic litigation and monitoring of human rights in the countries of Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia.
https://hfhr.pl/en/about-us/team
Ms. Marilyn Angelucci, WFWP Afghanistan President, born in the United States and educated there with a BA in Psychology and MA in Education from USA in 1990. She and her husband Umberto Angelucci have been working for over thirty years in various organizations in three different continents, Europe, Asia and Middle East and seven different nations, She is now serving as Secretary General of Family Federation for World Peace in the Middle East and President of WFWP Afghanistan. They are now living in Lebanon educating young people and families and strengthening family values. Marilyn and Umberto are the proud parents of two wonderful sons and seven young grandchildren.
Meditation: Ms. Britta Houston, President, WFWP Sweden; Director, WFWP Northern Region, 2023, with Vigdis Parkins from Norway, inter-religious, and local women's networks in Malmö over the last 25 years, district nurse in Malmö, caring for elderly and patients in need of care in their home. She is proud of her international family: the US, Sweden and Brazil. She is married to James Houston, has a daughter and two grandchildren.
Meditation with Britta Houston, WFWP President, Sweden
Cultural Evening: MC Ms Amanda and Amberlee Toumanguelov,
WFWP Ireland representatives
Session IV: Young Professionals: Women in STEM driving
Positive Societal Change
Moderator: Ms. Kefilwe Lebepe; Coordinator, WFWP Young Professionals International, member of WFWP Germany, living in Bonn Germany. Originally joined WFWP in her home country South Africa in 2008. An active member in Europe and Africa is also working on projects with African youth. Studied Bachelor of Commerce in Economics at the University of South Africa. Professional experience includes Banking-Foreign Exchange; currently working as an analyst for a socio-economic development organisation; enjoys reading, making beadwork and is driven towards developmental work.
Ms. Stella Harris, Gender Advocate, UK is a passionate advocate for women's and girls' rights, with a specific focus on education and gender empowerment. Growing up in an underprivileged background, Stella’s life trajectory changed when she was given the opportunity to attend school through the generosity of a benefactor. This pivotal and life changing experience ignited her dedication to fighting for the voiceless and underserved. With a heartfelt commitment to making education accessible to all, especially girls in disadvantaged communities, her advocacy work spans various initiatives, from grassroots community programs and mentoring to policy lobbying, all aimed at ensuring that every girl worldwide has the chance to reach her full potential.
Ms. Elham Kohistani, Human rights defender and expert on Women, Peace and Security with more than 10 years of experience working with human rights, gender equality, justice, peace building, dialogue and facilitations in Afghanistan, South Asia and MENA Region. Currently she is working with Reos Partners, a consultancy agency partner for systems changes on crucial societal challenges. Engaged with Civil Society and Human rights Network. She is an alumni of Women’s Peace Leadership programme of OSCE – Organization for Co - cooperation in EU and Gender Advocate with Swedish Institute Leader Lab programme. Her last employment was with the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan as Senior Human Rights Officer and with UNFAO as National Gender Specialist before leaving Afghanistan in 2021. https://reospartners.com/our-people/elham-kohistani
Ms. Sophia Nicholls, Communication Officer and Director of Youth and Students for Peace, UK, exemplifies a multifaceted approach to life by blending creativity, leadership, and cultural awareness. As a Creative Direction for Fashion student at the London College of Fashion, she is also a Communications Officer and the director of the sustainability-focused NGO YSP UK. Her upbringing in Kathmandu, London, and the English countryside has shaped her global perspective and fueled her passion for diverse cultures. Through her extensive work and research, Sophia has cultivated unique insights into the intersection of creativity and leadership, enriching her contributions and inspiring others in her field.
Ms. Kyung In van de Ven Oliveira, WFWP Netherlands, WFWPI Vienna UN Team since 2021, was born and raised in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, currently working as a Legal Guardian and Child’s Advocate of unaccompanied minor asylum seekers at the National Guardian Institution in the Netherlands.
Session V: Awards and Closing Session
Ms. Brigitte Wada holds the office of the Vice President of WFWP Europe and since 2008 President of WFWP France. She has worked to organize numerous meetings and conferences in France, among them the European Conference on Dignity in Paris in 2009 . In the last few years she developed Women’s Peace Academy and focused on the promotion of healthy marriages and families in partnership with other NGOs.