Shincheonji Church Decries Venue Cancellation by Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation

The Shincheonji (New Heaven New Earth) Church of Jesus, along with the Korean Association for National Unification Buddhism, had planned a significant Religious Leaders’ Forum and Graduation Ceremony at Imjingak Pyeonghwanuri Park in Paju, Gyeonggi Province. The event was set to draw tens of thousands of participants from around the world. With formal approval in place, the venue had been reserved from October 29 to 31 to accommodate this highly anticipated gathering. However, in an unexpected and last-minute move, the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization cancelled the reservation on October 29, just one day before the main ceremony, citing security concerns.

Imjingak Tourist Information Center in Paju, South Korea

“This last-minute cancellation is an act of administrative tyranny,” a Shincheonji representative stated. “The Gyeonggi Tourism Organization did not consult us, nor did they provide any reasonable explanation. This decision not only disrupts an event that has been in preparation for months but also disregards the considerable investment, amounting to over 20 billion KRW, that was made to ensure a safe and successful gathering for our members.”

The Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation justified the abrupt decision by pointing to the designation of danger zones around Paju and the potential disturbance from a North Korean defector organisation’s planned leaflet launch. However, Shincheonji emphasised that both the danger zones and the leaflet activity were known well in advance.

“We were given no objections until the last possible moment,” the representative continued. “Instead of working with us to address any concerns, the authorities chose to notify us of the cancellation just as the event was about to begin.”

According to Shincheonji, the failure to communicate or consider alternative arrangements has forced them to reroute tens of thousands of attendees to alternative venues across Korea and internationally.

“This is more than just an administrative misstep,” the spokesperson stressed. “It’s a violation of our constitutional rights to religious freedom and equal treatment. This type of unconstitutional administrative abuse cannot and should not be ignored.”

Shincheonji representatives believe the cancellation was influenced by orders from higher authorities, claiming, “We suspect that unjust orders came not just from the tourism organisation but from the Gyeonggi Provincial Government itself. This unfair treatment highlights a concerning bias and interference in religious practices.”

In response to the decision, Shincheonji has called for the Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation to retract the cancellation and collaborate on a transparent solution. “We will pursue all necessary legal and administrative actions to hold those responsible accountable,” they affirmed. “We cannot allow such significant infringements on our rights to go unchallenged.”

2023 graduation ceremony hosted in the Daegu stadium with over 106,000 graduates

With the event now set to continue across various local Shincheonji branches, including the upcoming large-scale ceremony in South Africa, Shincheonji remains committed to ensuring the 110,000 graduates worldwide celebrate their milestone.

 “Despite these challenges, we will proceed in unity,” the representative concluded. “The light, spirit and purpose of this ceremony remain unwavering, and we look forward to making it a meaningful occasion.”

Southern Africa Prepares for Landmark Shincheonji Graduation Ceremony Following Chairman’s Visit to Cheongju

The highly anticipated Shincheonji Church of Jesus, New Heaven New Earth (NHNE), graduation ceremony will be hosted across several Southern African cities this November. Cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, Gqeberha, Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Rustenburg, Windhoek, Harare, Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu, and Gaborone will see civil society leaders, religious leaders, and media practitioners gathering for this momentous event, marking a new chapter of unity under the Word.

The announcement comes on the heels of a historic visit by the Chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus to the Cheongju branch in South Korea on September 8, 2024. The Chairman’s visit drew a massive crowd of 80,000 people, including congregants from across the country and 100 pastors from various local churches. In a show of support, the attendees formed a 4 km-long human barrier to welcome him.

Shincheonji Church of Jesus members gathered at the Shincheonji Matthias Church in Cheongju, which was visited by Chairman Lee Man-hee.

The excitement surrounding the Chairman’s visit stems from his ability to clearly explain the entire Bible, offering believers a deeper understanding of their faith.

“We should be truly thankful that God has revealed to us the words of Revelation, which no one knew for 6,000 years. This Word is life. We must have faith that is 100% aligned with this Word, and this is what it means to be one with God,” the Chairman stated during his address.

He further emphasised the responsibility to share the Word, saying, “We can present the reality of the prophecies in the Book of Revelation. However, we were once in the same position as those who did not know. Therefore, we must humble ourselves and explain the truth to help others understand.”

Since its founding, NHNE has been devoted to spreading a Bible-centered faith. This year, the Chairman has visited more than 40 churches both in South Korea and internationally, sharing teachings rooted in the six principles of journalism—who, what, when, where, why, and how. A 2023 Pastoral Data Research Institute survey found that 65% of Protestant churchgoers in South Korea felt a “spiritual thirst.” Additionally, 55% expressed a desire for a “systematic Bible education” from their pastors, reflecting a widespread need for more structured and in-depth religious instruction.

General Chairman Lee Man-hee addressing reporters who came to cover the Shincheonji Matthias Church in Cheongju

NHNE, however, is reversing the trend of young adults in their 20s and 30s leaving religion. With more than 100,000 members completing NHNE’s 8-month Bible course annually, the church’s growth is driven by its Bible-centered teachings and the excellence of the revealed Word.

A church representative remarked, “The prophecies in the Book of Revelation, which many believed were just stories, have been fulfilled and have physical realities. This truth is at the core of NHNE’s teachings, supported by a systematic curriculum that resonates with people of all ages.”

As Southern Africa prepares for the upcoming graduation ceremony in November, the event is set to unite leaders and believers across the region, continuing the global mission of NHNE to spread the Word and bring clarity to the lives of believers.

The 11th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace Held in Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa – 18 May 2024 – an international peace NGO, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), held the 11th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace under the theme of “30 Years of Democracy: Promoting Youth Participation in Elections and Envisioning the Next Three Decades of Freedom”.

As conflicts erupt worldwide that threaten global security and coexistence bringing about the need for peace among citizens, the purpose of this event was to promote youth participation in elections, address critical developmental challenges such as unemployment, gender-based violence, inequality, and social justice through the culture of peace.

This year’s event was held in Cape Town, attended by over 200 participants including the Western Cape Premier candidates Mr. Khalid Sayed Mohammed of the ANC party, Mr. Axolile Notywala of the Rise Mzansi Party and citizen demonstrators.

Mr Khalid Sayed shared how although the struggles faced in various countries and in Palestine may seem far, they are relevant to local South Africans who still have not had freedom afforded by peace due to previously mismanaged resources.

Mr. Axolile Notywala encouraged the youth to participate and commended the dialogue as a platform where one can be more informed as a voter. He raised the concern of the single mother demographic in South Africa, who many a time are unable to attend such events.

In an interview with Mr Andrew Bateman,a member of the Democratic Alliance, he shared “in regards to our own nation, we are aware of the high levels of crime, gender based violence and it is simply unacceptable what South Africans are facing everyday in our communities”.

This annual event commemorates the 2013 proclamation of the Declaration of World Peace at the Peace Gate in Seoul Olympic Park with 30,000 global youth advocating peace. This declaration outlines the roles of individuals from all walks of life in achieving peace and urges a united global effort.

At the 10th annual commemoration last year HWPL Chairman Lee Man-hee said, “Since we pledged to work together for world peace 10 years ago, we have been calling for peace all over the world. We have advocated that peace should be taught at home and at school, and that everyone should become messengers of peace.”  He also emphasized, “Everyone should be one under the title of peace and work together to create a good world and make it a legacy for future generations. This is what we need to do in this era in which we live.”

Membership registration, information about peace projects, and reading the full text of and supporting the DPCW are available on HWPL’s official website at www.hwpl.kr.

HWPL Calls for Peace Amid Escalating Conflict Between Israel and Iran

In response to the intensifying tension between Israel and Iran, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), a United Nations-affiliated organisation focused on promoting peace through civilian-led initiatives, has issued a compelling statement.

Expressing profound concerns over the recent surge in violence, HWPL emphasised the detrimental impact of the conflict on innocent civilians. The organisation stressed the tragic reality of war: claiming countless lives and leaving behind a trail of devastation that reverberates across generations.

“It is a clear indication that the greatest victims of war are innocent civilians. How could those lost lives ever be brought back? What could compensate for the outcry of children and the anguish of the youth in devastated dwellings?” the statement said.

Highlighting the urgent need for decisive action, HWPL called upon the international community to prioritise efforts towards establishing comprehensive international laws aimed at safeguarding peace for future generations.

Reports indicate that on April 13th, Iran and its militant allies launched a large-scale attack on Israel, deploying hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones. The unprecedented nature of Tehran’s direct assault on Israel has raised alarm bells within the global community. Experts attribute Iran’s actions to a retaliatory response following an airstrike on the Iranian embassy in Syria on April 1st, which resulted in the loss of several military personnel, including senior commanders.

In a notable display of solidarity, Permanent Representatives to the United Nations from 48 nations, including key stakeholders such as the United States, Australia, and Japan, jointly condemned Iran’s aggression against Israel on April 18th.

Amidst the escalating tensions, HWPL remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering dialogue and reconciliation. An official from the organisation reiterated HWPL’s unwavering dedication to offering hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Iran.

As the world watches with apprehension, HWPL’s call for peace serves as a beacon of hope, urging all parties involved to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy in pursuit of lasting peace and stability in the region.

“HWPL remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering dialogue and reconciliation, offering hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Iran,” an HWPL official said.

HWPL’s 8th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) Held on March 14th

Amidst Ongoing Global Conflicts, International Experts Gather to Discuss Institutionalizing Peace

Participants of the 8th Annual Commemoration of the DPCW

In 2023 alone, conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas war, and numerous international disputes tragically claimed the lives of over 33,000 civilians and displaced millions. Recognizing this dire reality, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), an international peace NGO, held its 8th annual commemoration of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) on March 14th at its peace training institute in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. The event’s theme resonated deeply: “Building the Minds of Peace: Promoting Institutional Peace via Intercultural Dialogue and Understanding.”

Since the DPCW’s proclamation on March 14, 2016, HWPL has consistently held annual commemorative ceremonies to advocate for the institutionalization of peace. This year, the event gathered about 12,500 distinguished experts from diverse fields – political, legal, religious, educational, media, and representatives from women and youth sectors – both online and in person. Among participants, about 10,000 HWPL members moved in an orderly manner under the guidance of staff and filled the commemorative ceremony venue.

Chairman Man-Hee Lee of HWPL, speaking at the 8th Annual Commemoration.

Drafted in collaboration with international legal specialists from 15 countries, the DPCW comprises 10 articles and 38 clauses. It outlines the principles and tools necessary to prevent and resolve conflicts, cultivate a peaceful global society, and defines clear roles for individuals, communities, and nations in achieving lasting peace.

In his congratulatory speech, H.E. Vidura Wickramanayaka, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs of Sri Lanka, said, “The commitment and dedication shown in the pursuit of peace projects have not only been commendable but have also laid the foundation for a more harmonious world. The tireless efforts of individuals and organizations working towards the common goal of ending war and fostering understanding among nations are truly inspiring.”

Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs of Sri Lanka

As President of the Daegak Buddhism Jogye Order in South Korea, Ven. Beopsan who has been participating in interreligious dialogue for nine years, emphasized the importance of religious leaders’ participation in peacebuilding efforts including comparative study of scriptures. He said, “Intercultural dialogue and understanding can be found at HWPL’s World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Office. The root of religion is one and its meaning is a truly noble value.”

Having pointed out that conflicts caused by religion have threatened global peace, Chairman Man-hee Lee of HWPL said, “Different religions should come together, learn each other’s values and become one by comparative study on scriptures. Religious communities should practice faith based on scriptures, so they can live with humanity on this earth. We must create a world where people communicate, cooperate, and help each other regardless of religion,”

President of the Daegak Buddhism, Jogye Order giving a speech.

Lastly, the ceremony concluded with a variety of performances depicting the journey of peace. During the performance, there was a session where the contents of Article 10, 38 clauses of the DPCW were explained through performance, and expressed an image of a paradise filled with flowers where peace was achieved.

Recently, various activities are being carried out around the world to institutionalize peace. In East Timor, a training course for journalists is planned to be held in 2024 to raise public awareness of peace. Mr. Otélio Ote, President of the Timor-Leste Press Council, said, “I am proud to announce our collaboration with HWPL through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement peace journalism education. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to promoting freedom of expression, press freedom, and the independence of media institutions. As we look ahead to 2024, the Timor-Leste Press Council is committed to supporting HWPL’s endeavors for the sustainable development of institutional peace based on intercultural dialogue and understanding.”

Shincheonji Celebrates 40th Anniversary with over 30,000 Attendees

On the morning of the 14th, Chairman Man-Hee Lee is giving a sermon during the 40th anniversary ceremony held at the Cheongpyeong Shincheonji Peace Training Center.

Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony (Shincheonji), led by Chairman Man-Hee Lee, marked its 40th anniversary on 14 March 2024 with a commemorative ceremony and service at the Cheongpyeong Shincheonji Peace Training Center. 

Reflecting on the journey since its inception in 1984, the commemoration ceremony provided a platform to honour the growth of Shincheonji and offer gratitude to God. Visionary plans for the upcoming year were unveiled, emphasising the church’s commitment to societal service and its role as a beacon of light and a pillar of support.

The event was live streamed to 66 countries worldwide and approximately 30,000 attendees from across the world, including about 40 South African congregants, joined the ceremony in person. 

A ceremony commemorating the 40th anniversary of the founding is being held at the Cheongpyeong Shincheonji Peace Training Center on the morning of the 14th.

The commemorative service featured highlights such as an overview of the 40th anniversary proceedings, a retrospective video, and a historical narrative of Shincheonji. in his sermon Chairman Lee reflected on the church’s humble beginnings, attributing its significant growth to divine providence.

Despite challenges, Shincheonji has sustained continuous growth since its inception, defying global economic fluctuations. Notably, the institution has witnessed a surge in graduates, with over 100,000 individuals completing its programs annually since 2019. Additionally, in the spirit of fostering dialogue and collaboration with religious communities worldwide, Shincheonji has forged partnerships with numerous churches, thus making strides in developing mutual understanding and recognition in the religious sphere.

While the 40th anniversary ceremony was held at the Cheongpyeong Shincheonji Peace Training Center on the morning of the 14th, saints are moving under the guidance of a guide for safety to enter the site.

Chairman Lee emphasised the importance of aligning with God’s will and extending love and compassion to others. Urging a deeper understanding of the Bible’s teachings, he called for collective efforts to enrich lives through faith and altruism.

Shincheonji has actively worked with a heart of servitude to provide hope both physically and spiritually in Southern Africa through its branch churches in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. With the core value of uniting as one, Shincheonji has additionally partnered with local authority officials to run successful collaborative projects in service of their communities such as blood donation drives, clean ups, food drives, and various other volunteer programmes.

Global Journalists Unite for Peace Journalism

Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the renowned international peace organisation, recently convened a landmark online event attended by approximately 160 media representatives from 49 countries on February 17, 2024. 

This year’s HWPL International Workshop on Peace Journalism commemorated the release of its second journal, “Peace Journalism Studies”, a collaborative effort involving nine journalists from across the globe.

Centered around the theme “Media Perspective on Conflict Resolution,” this event aimed to disseminate the principles of peace journalism, amplifying the collective voice of an international media network advocating for peace, and proposing actionable strategies to inspire the global village to prioritise peace. Among the contributors, six speakers delivered addresses on the role of media in building peace, addressing peace-related issues, promoting peace journalism, and enhancing global security.

Observations by the attendees:

“In navigating the delicate tapestry of conflict and discord, Peace Journalism emerges as a beacon of clarity, an instrument of empathy, and a catalyst for meaningful change. Peace Journalism unfolds as a conduit for open dialogue, providing platforms for varying perspectives, and cultivating a deep engagement with the multifaceted nature of conflict a resolution.” – Innocent Yuh, the Regional Coordinator of the Cameroon Association of Media Professionals (CAMP) in the South West Region


“Journalists must be able to be present at the events. We cannot deny that the media must strive to be in a position to remain a source of correct information and present it professionally according to rules such as the code of ethics. This ensures that journalists are responsible in their profession, specifically searching for and presenting information.” – Hendry Nursal, Editor-in-Chief of Jambidaily.com


“The war in Ukraine poses threats to the entire global security. It should also be emphasized that not only states are influential “players” in strengthening global security. This is also the interest of civil society and civil society institutions. Peace journalism helps to establish communications between parties in conflict,” – Ihor Shevyrov, Journalist and Lawyer of Ukraine


“We not only raise awareness but also inspire individuals to actively engage in the pursuit of peace, hastening the realization of a peaceful world. Regular reporting of global peace events should be a monthly endeavor in each country.” – Lok Bahadur Chaudhary, Founder Publisher and Editor of Hamarpahura.com


“Social media enables people from different cultures and backgrounds to engage with one another directly. Interactions on these digital platforms, when used positively, can foster a global community that works collectively towards peace and mutual understanding. Grassroots reports have brought attention to conflicts that might have otherwise gone unnoticed or unreported.” – Oral Ofori, Founder of TheAfricanDream Company


“By 2022, 60% of the public believes that the news they receive contains bias or even disinformation. In its meaning and principles, peace journalism is a journalism practice that aims to minimize conflict, promote dialogue, and help build peace in society. HWPL is the only international non-governmental organization that calls on all media to promote peace.” – Rana Setiawan, Chief Reporter of Mira Islamic News Agency (MINA)


The host organization, HWPL, is globally engaged in initiatives not only in journalism but also in peace education, interfaith dialogue, youth and women’s activities, and the establishment of international law for peace. As HWPL continues to champion peace journalism, the event resonates as a call for a media effort, urging all media outlets to embrace their role in fostering a world united in pursuit of lasting peace.

Thousands of Global Leaders Gathered in South Korea for Building Institutional Peace

More than 1,800 people from 121 countries, including the United States, the Philippines, Ukraine, South Africa, Pakistan, Thailand, Romania, and India, attended the 9th Anniversary of the September 18th HWPL World Peace Summit held in Incheon, South Korea, from September 18th to 21st.

During this event themed “Implementing a Multidimensional Strategies for Institutional Peace”, leaders and experts in the fields of international law, religion, education, youth, women, and media participated in about 30 sessions over four days. The participants engaged in discussions, tailored not only by fields but also by countries, on practical and viable strategies to establish a legally binding international law for peace.

At the press conference on the 18th, Lee Man-hee, Chairman of the host organization, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), urged politicians and leaders of countries to work together for peace as he called for action, drawing from his personal experience as a war veteran, having witnessed the harsh realities of war.

“Why should the lives of young people be sacrificed in war? What is politics, and for whom is it for? When war breaks out, it is not politicians who go out and fight, but young people who have never bloomed before that are sacrificed. Peace cannot be achieved through words alone. If we don’t have one, we have to create one, so we have traveled 32 times around the world to carry out peace activities. If peace had won in this world, there would have been no regrettable deaths. Through the enactment of international law, we must leave peace as a legacy to the global community where our descendants will live,” he stated.

At the main session on the 18th, H.E. Prof. Dr. Emil Constantinescu, the 3rd President of Romania, said, “During the Summit, we agreed that Peace is not an abstract concept, but rather a supreme value of humanity that can generate a calm environment in which people can live without the threat of violent conflict or psychological pressure. We agreed to work towards the implementation of concrete measures, both in the short but above all in the long term, in order to fashion a new system of reference that replaces attitudes of “man against man” with “man alongside man”, expressed in the motto we adopted in 2014, “We Are One”.”

To achieve fair and sustainable peace, HWPL advocates for building an internationally agreed concrete institutional peace based on the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) that proposes the comprehensive measures of peace continuum, ranging from conflict prevention to maintaining peace. In addition, HWPL continues activities such as facilitating interreligious dialogues, fostering peace activities led by youth and women, providing peace education, and promoting a culture of peace through media outreach.

In the progress report presentation, Kang Tae-ho, Managing Director of HWPL, introduced the progress of the DPCW, which has received approximately 900,000 supports from civil society in 176 countries as well as the Central American Parliament, and the case of Mindanao, which is an example of a private-level peace agreement.

Hon. Ahod B. Ebrahim, Al haj, Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) from the Philippine, said, “Today, I stand before all of you with utmost humility and say that the Bangsamoro is now a land of peace, prosperity, and justice where Muslims, Christians, Indigenous Peoples’, and our Lumad brothers and sisters co-exist and live in harmony. As we embrace a new age in the name of peace and development, I call upon every influential leader, policymaker, and peace advocate in parts of the world to become a catapult that promotes peace, disarmament, and a sustainable future. Let us continue to write a story of peace.”

HWPL has operated the Religious Peace Academy (RPA), a platform for comparative scriptural studies, in 130 countries worldwide with the aim of preventing conflict and promoting reconciliation through interreligious dialogue. Also, HWPL Peace Education to learn and practice peaceful values has been implemented in the various schools and educational institutions in 90 countries around the world.

HWPL officials expressed gratitude for the visit to South Korea by global peace messengers, including former heads of state and leaders of ministerial rank, all united for the common aspiration of humanity: peace. They also called for the cooperation of the South Korean government along with the support of the international community, to ensure that such nongovernmental diplomacy can contribute to achievable and lasting peace.

At this event, the HWPL Peace Award was presented to 13 individuals in recognition of their contributions to cooperating with HWPL’s peace initiatives. Among the recipients were H.E. Prof. Dr. Emil Constantinescu, the 3rd President of Romania; H.E. Mr. Oumar Keita, Former Permanent Delegate of Mali to UNESCO HQ; and Dr. Ciaran Burke, Professor of International Law at Friedrich Schiller University Jena in German.

Commemorative remarks by HWPL Chairman, Lee Man-hee
Group photo of the attendees at main session on the 18th
Group photo of the HWPL Peace Awards Ceremony

New Guinness world record set by church for blood donation

Over 71,000 members of the youth volunteer group ‘WE ARE ONE’, head quartered in South Korea, set a new Guinness World Records™ title for the most people to sign up online as blood donors within 24 hours. 

‘WE ARE ONE’ that forms part of the international church organisation, Shincheonji Church of Jesus, set a goal of 70,000 blood donations in an attempt to raise awareness of the importance of donating blood. Through their “Life ON Youth ON” donation campaign, the group wanted to help alleviate the blood shortage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide.

While 71,121 volunteers registered to donate within 24 hours on 1 October this year in South Korea, more than 700 of Shincheonji’s congregation members in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe also participated in this campaign. African members of the church wanted to show their unity with this noble cause.

While the majority of countries in Southern Africa have been struggling to maintain sufficient blood stock levels since the pandemic started, most national blood agencies welcomed this initiative taken by ‘WE ARE ONE’ and Shincheonji. 

According to a report published by the World Health Organisation in June 2022, shortages of blood have impacted all countries during and since the COVID-19 pandemic started. 

Through ‘Red Connect’, the official blood donation smartphone application developed for the Korean Red Cross, all the volunteers registered online within 24 hours to donate blood. This is almost seven times the previous world record of 10,217 (8 hours) held by India.

Junsu Hong, the head of ‘WE ARE ONE’ said, “It was possible to achieve our goal not only because of the volunteers, but also the Korean Red Cross officials working at the forefront to solve the blood shortage, and the IT company that developed an efficient blood donation application system.”

In South Korea a total of 43,811 people completed their blood donation since the campaign started. The plan is to reach the goal of more than 71,000 people by November.

In South Africa Khulekani Zuma, a spokesperson for the South African Nation Blood Service said, “I must say I am very moved by the Shincheonji Church initiative to break the World Record. I’m very proud and happy that they’ve taken this stance to try and save lives, not only by talking, but by taking action as well.”

London artist launches Portraits_For_Ukraine project to support Ukrainian refugees

London-based Polish artist and designer Matt Gidaszewski has launched #Portraits_For_Ukraine – uniting artists from around the world – to raise money for humanitarian aid for Ukrainian refugees. 

The initiative has been launched by My Design Arsenal (MDA), a platform for designers and artists created by Matt Gidaszewski and Allan Parsons.

It invites artists to put their skills to use by illustrating portraits, with all proceeds passed to Razom charity, a non-profit Ukrainian-American human rights organisation established to support the people of Ukraine.

Matt – who is spearheading the project – says he created the initiative after hearing heart-breaking stories from back home in Poland, where his mother has opened up her house to help Ukrainian refugees forced to flee their war-torn homeland.

Inspired by her support, he hopes the project will enable artists to put their talent to good use to help the millions of people who have fled their homes since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February, many to neighbouring Poland.

Matt said: “We hear terrifying stories from them about their families, about a brother who they have not spoken to for over a month as he is trapped in Mariupol, loved ones that they had to leave behind, and siblings who tragically died. This was one of the triggers for the Portraits_For_Ukraine project. I wanted to create a project where an artist can have a direct impact by using his or her talent to induce some good.”

Matt Gidaszewski currently works for start-up company Medics.Academy as Head of Art and Design.

He launched #Portraits_For-Ukraine as a way to provide an outlet through which artists can show their support for the people of Ukraine.

So far £675 has been raised from the campaign, with 25 portraits created by 8 different artists with more artists continuing to join.

The platform enables anyone globally to commission a portrait of themselves or of their pets, with a contributing artist creating a unique portrait in their very own style. The artwork will then be sent to them and also displayed on the #Portraits_For_Ukraine website.

The goal is to get 1000 portraits created to produce a book containing all the artworks, names of all the artists and all the donors. The book will be available to buy with on demand printing and the money will also go to Razom Charity.