Turning Point: Becoming a Peacebuilder
Peace Begins Within
~Fahid Abu-Salah~
Fahid Abu-Salah believes in the work of peacebuilding. His profound passion for peacebuilding stems from a belief that peace and stability are imperative for prosperity, particularly in the turbulent MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. Fahid, originally from Jordan, is dedicated to making the work of peace practical and accessible to students and young people where he currently resides in Lebanon and aims to promote the Jordanian model of peace in a region marked by challenges. Fahid believes that now is the time to act as an optimistic leader in the realm of peacebuilding. Fahid graduated from the 2024 Peace Practice Alliance and with the support of Euphrates is seeking to establish the first-ever Peace Club at American University of Beirut. We invite you to learn more by reading about Fahid in his own voice.
Background
I grew up in Jordan, a stable country in a region full of conflict and uncertainty. As a student, I saw many Syrian refugees come into my country. Hearing their stories of pain and hardship, I realized how deeply violence can affect young people. These experiences made me feel a strong desire to help those in need, even though I felt powerless back then.
In 2024, I came to Lebanon as a fully funded U.S. Department of State MEPI scholar at the American University of Beirut (AUB). Lebanon is a country dealing with its political problems and continuous threats of large-scale war. Studying there made me more committed to peace. I joined workshops and activities focused on bringing communities together and encouraging dialogue among people affected by conflict.
But then, tensions between Lebanon and Israel increased quickly. For the first time in my life, I felt real fear. The threat of violence made me realize how vulnerable I was. At that moment, I truly understood the fears of the refugees I had wanted to help. Feeling the risk of losing my home and living under constant threat was something I never expected to experience.
This experience made me even more certain that the Middle East needs change. We need more peace. No one should have to live with the uncertainty that is so common in our world today.
A vital moment in my journey as a peace leader came from participating in the Peace Practice Alliance (PPA) Program. The PPA program allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who shared my vision of a world where understanding, rather than conflict, is the primary mode of communication. The program enhanced my leadership skills and reinforced my belief that peace begins within individuals before it can spread to larger communities.
Current Work
As a graduate student in Mechanical Engineering, my focus has primarily been on utilizing my skills to enhance the quality of life in my community.
In Lebanon, I have organized workshops that bring together youth from different sects, nationalities, and backgrounds, aiming to foster a sense of unity, understanding, and cooperation. One such initiative is a series of dialogues on peace and conflict resolution. I am also proud of the community support project I presented at a conference at the Lebanese American University (LAU) to present my community support project and to share my ideas with like-minded people.
What makes me most proud is not just the impact on the individuals who participate in these initiatives but the ripple effect that these dialogues create. By empowering young people with the tools to engage in peaceful dialogue, we are building a future where the next generation can avoid the never-ending circle of conflict and division.
My Personal Peace Practice
For me, peace is more than the absence of war—it is a state of mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation. It starts within oneself and expands outward to encompass families, communities, and nations. Peacebuilding requires patience, empathy, and the willingness to engage with others, even when their perspectives differ from our own.
My daily practice of peace includes mindfulness, regular reflection, and fostering empathy in all my interactions. These practices help me remain grounded and resilient, especially when faced with the complexities of Lebanon's current political and social instability. Non-violent communication and active listening have been instrumental in my work, enabling me to create spaces where participants feel heard and respected.
Call to Action
My vision for the future is to create a world where young people are equipped to lead peace efforts in their communities. I believe that education, empathy, and dialogue are the keys to achieving this goal. My long-term aspiration is to establish an international peacebuilding initiative that focuses on conflict zones in the Middle East, where young people are empowered to be the leaders of change.
I invite anyone who believes in the power of youth-led peacebuilding to join me on this journey. Resources such as leadership training, educational tools, and mentorship are crucial to scaling these efforts. Organizations like the Euphrates Institute, where I completed the Peace Practice Alliance Program, have been instrumental in my development as a peace leader, and I encourage others to explore their resources.
Advice to Aspiring Peace Leaders
If you wish to embark on the path of peace leadership, start by looking within. Cultivate inner peace through self-reflection and empathy. Engage with others from a place of understanding rather than judgment. Remember, peace is not just a goal rather it’s a practice that begins in your daily interactions. Your efforts, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on your community and beyond.
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If you would like to learn more about my peacebuilding efforts or get involved, feel free to reach out. I am always open to sharing my experiences and collaborating on new initiatives for peace.
Email: mm7442690@gmail.com