The event brought together students, researchers, policymakers and UNESCO Chairs from the Netherlands and around the world. Together, they explored how education, science, culture and diplomacy can help build a more peaceful and fair society.
The day began with powerful speeches that invited us to reflect on a key question: How can we 'Be the Change'?Kathleen Ferrier, Chair of the Netherlands Commission for UNESCO, reminded us that “peace begins in the minds of people.” Her words set the tone for a day full of inspiration.
Prof. Jeroen Geurts, Rector Magnificus of VU Amsterdam and member of the Netherlands Commission for UNESCO, spoke about the importance of taking action. He challenged us with a call to action, saying “It is a signal moment—where we choose whether to remain victims of a fractured world or become co-creators of something better.”
Dr. Sylvia van de Bunt, UNESCO Chair on Cross-Cultural Sustainability at VU Amsterdam, highlighted the importance of listening to each other across generations and focusing on inner development.
A lively panel discussion, led by Sem Barendse, featured diverse voices and experiences. Panelists included Prof. Fons Trompenaars, Prof. Bruce Mutsvairo, Prof. Rina Malagayo Alluri, and Anas Kjidaâ, Chair of the UNESCO Youth Commission. They shared personal stories where they experienced change in their lives.
Art played an important role throughout the event. Saumya Shukla gave two beautiful Kathak dance performances that reminded us of the power of culture to bring people together beyond borders.
Young people also took the spotlight during a poster session featuring international high school students, American School of The Hague, VU’s Pre-University College, and members of the UNESCO Youth Commission. Their spoken word, creativity and commitment gave us hope for the future.
In the afternoon, seven hands-on workshops tackled urgent global challenges- such as peace in higher education, AI ethics, water heritage, knowledge equity, mentoring, coaching and human rights. The last workshop was dedicated to the VU archives ‘From Kuyper to King’ recently awarded with the UNESCO NL Memory of the World recognition. These workshops, led by UNESCO Chairs and VU researchers, sparked great discussions and offered practical ideas for change.
The day ended with final reflections by Sylvia van de Bunt and Jaap Gordijn, a vibrant networking reception, where conversations continued, and new connections were made.
We sincerely thank everyone who helped make this event possible: our speakers, facilitators, volunteers, and especially the students’ voice bringing fresh energy and perspective. Special thanks to the Netherlands Commission for UNESCO for their inspiring servant-leadership.
Together, we took an important step toward creating a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world. This is just the beginning.