Our big family
Leadership
Message from Emanuel C. Perlman:
Helping and guiding people has been my life’s work and passion, and peace has been my sustained mission since I was very young. As a student, I was struck by my teacher’s challenge to imagine the world at peace for an entire day, a single 24 hours without fighting, anger, or fear.
During Covid-19, we began with an hour, seen around the world. Be inspired by our gifted speakers and uplifted by these talented performers. I am still humbled and grateful for your participation in this project together.
Video message
Watch Manny’s welcome to the Peace Leaders family.
Leaders in the field
Peter Yarrow *
Singer & songwriter, Peter, Paul & Mary
"Your song, as in the 60s, remains a striking anthem for our aspirations of peace, a unity of spirit, as brothers."
Dalai Lama *
Spiritual leader & Nobel Peace laureate
"It is our responsibility as human beings to bring peace. That is why we are here, to take that responsibility and chart a path forward."
Amma *
Humanitarian & spiritual leader
Amma, from Salem to Chennai to the United States, the eight unforgettable visits my wife, Janice, and I shared with you have been powerful and uplifting. I’m grateful for all you have taught me, including your message of “shanti, shanti, shanti… peace, peace, peace.” Though we do not share the same language, I know that we have a connected heart that yearns for peace.
Ambassador Chowdhury *
Former UN Under-Secretary-General
Your legendary commitment to the principles of peace, the culture of peace, which aims at making peace and nonviolence a part of our own self, our own personality, a part of our own existence as human beings. I fondly recall our first conversation at the United Nations about your then-recent recognition into the Guinness Book of World Records. In addition to your powerful message, I thank you for your advice and experience in creating this inaugural program.
Angelique *
Grammy-winning artist & UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador
"We are honored by your beautiful song and delighted to share your passion for peace."
Coral *
Singer, songwriter & advocate
Coral, thank you for sharing so many of your talents with us. Your singing, songwriting, and advocacy for those less fortunate continues to inspire us.
Col. Joseph Sweeney
U.S. Marine Corps & Army (ret.)
More than 30 years of distinguished service building trust across cultures and borders, at U.S. Embassies in Tokyo and Seoul, U.S. Pacific Command, and the Defense Intelligence Agency. Decorated with the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star Medal.
The King
Traditional ruler, Enugu, Nigeria
His Royal Majesty blends cultural heritage with modern leadership: youth empowerment, infrastructure, food security, and interethnic unity across Enugu and beyond.
Chukwuma
Community leader
A visionary leader whose commitment to community wellbeing reflects the innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration essential to building stronger, more resilient societies worldwide.
Professor Ogbodo
Rector, IMT Enugu, Nigeria
A respected scholar whose sweeping reforms in academic standards, governance, and infrastructure empower youth through education, a powerful force for sustainable peace.
Edoshe
International relations professional & legal scholar
Edoshe Tesfaye is an international relations professional, legal scholar, and lifelong peace advocate. She holds an LL.B. from Haramaya University and a Master’s in International Relations and Diplomacy from the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). Having served Ethiopia with distinction across foreign relations and humanitarian initiatives, Mrs. Tesfaye is currently based in the United States. She pairs rigorous legal expertise with a deep mastery of multilateral negotiations, dedicated to advancing sustainable peace building, conflict resolution, and human welfare wherever she is called to serve.
Nicole Ryan *
Broadcaster & co-host
I am in awe of your professionalism and poise. Thank you for sharing your time and talents to serve as co-host. Twenty-six years ago we met and I intuited your inner talent that has blossomed into who you are today.
Alex Ogbodo
Broadcast journalist
A trailblazing journalist shedding light on education, empowerment, economics, and governance in Nigeria, volunteering his expertise to institutions that preserve cultural heritage and promote peace.
Roma Downey *
Actress, producer & Peace Ambassador
"If we could all only see the face of God in everything and everyone, all the time, surely the world would be a kinder place."
Jeannivee *
Singer & songwriter
Jeannivée, thank you for your faith in Destination Peace. We appreciate your insight and collaboration. I will always remember sitting in on your recording session and hearing familiar songs in a resonance that transported me.
Tonya *
CEO & Artistic Director, San Diego International Film Festival
I enjoyed attending the San Diego International Film Festival and witnessing the mesmerizing speeches of honorees. You provide a meaningful platform for their voices.
Evie *
Founder, Fashion 4 Development
Evie, from my first visit to the Fashion 4 Development show in New York to the message you shared with us today, I have always felt welcomed by you.
Gordon *
Composer & producer
Your unbreakable spirit and talents never end. Thank you for sharing with us your gift of song.
* Appeared in the 2020 Destination Peace Hour of World Peace Hour of Peace Concert Celebrating #UN75 from Destination Peace.
Add your voice to the family.
Peace leaders come from every walk of life. Join us, or support the work that brings them together.
