Perhaps what I appreciate most about the field of mediation is that it is universally dynamic and impactful. Mediators across the globe are making significant inroads in established public institutions and government offices. One example is author, mediator and civil rights leader, William “Bill” Smitherman, based in Arizona, USA. I recently interviewed Bill, who is an IMA associate and participant in our Master Mediator program. I discovered a rare gem in the mediator community. His career has been devoted tirelessly to expanding equity in government, as well as the private business sector, through conciliation and mediation, culminating in a series of children’s books he has recently authored. The world could use more mediators like Bill Smitherman to pave the way for future generations of peacebuilders.
On the Remarkable Path from War Orphan to Peace Builder
The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed both tragedy and inspiration across the globe. In this article we introduce Peter Adeeko, who has triumphed in spite of hardship. Against all odds, he has worked relentlessly to foster peace in Nigeria and beyond. Drawing from his childhood experience as a war orphan, he abandoned corporate life as an adult to launch Soulace Africa, a peace-building nongovernmental organization (NGO). Peter found us while seeking mediation training and support for the community he serves, most of whom are victims of extreme violence. As Covid-19 reached Nigeria, we were inspired by the way in which he quickly assessed potential conflicts and mobilized his connections to nurture peace, in the midst of crisis. In spite of constant pandemic-related dark news, we believe Peter’s story may ignite a spark of hope for all of us.
10 Lessons on School Violence Learned While Pursuing World Peace
In my early 20s, I wasn’t interested in school violence prevention. I had big ideas about contributing to world peace. After serving in the Peace Corps, I worked on a Master’s in international development, focused on conflict resolution. This was in the early 90s, before “Columbine” was associated with a high school massacre. An internship in the heart of America changed my worldview.