Category: Beyond the Port

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HWPL Holds Peace Education Teacher Graduation Ceremony’ with Lesotho DPE

Maseru, Lesotho – Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), an international peace NGO, successfully held the ‘DPE-HWPL Peace Education Teacher Graduation Ceremony’ in Maseru, Lesotho, on March 13. This event was jointly conducted with the Development for Peace Education (DPE), a civil society organization specializing in peace education within Lesotho.

The ceremony was attended by 51 teachers who successfully completed the peace education course, along with high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) of Lesotho, education figures, and community leaders, totalling about 74 participants. In particular, this event served as an important platform for collaboration where government agencies, the international community, and local civil society united to integrate peace values into the national education system.

Mr. Tsepo Valentine Ntutu Mosoeu (Coordinator of DPE) stated, “The partnership with HWPL has brought new hope to the educational field in Lesotho. Beyond simple knowledge transfer, we are first transforming teachers so that students can grow into ‘peace citizens’ who resolve conflicts through dialogue and respect each other. This graduation ceremony is the beginning of that change.”

Honorable Ntoi Rapapa (Leader of the Alliance of Democrats and Minister of Education) emphasized, “Social conflicts and violence cannot be resolved solely through institutional changes; people’s values must change. If we do not teach peace to children, someone else will teach them violence, which is why the role of teachers in the field is more important than anything else. I hope that this education will be fully implemented within the public education system so that all children in Lesotho can grow up learning peace, and I will actively support this.”

Mrs. Puleng Nkaleche (Principal of Ribaneng High School) shared her thoughts, saying, “Having experienced the tragic pain of losing children in the past, I felt the desperate need for peace more deeply than anyone else. The peace education introduced after establishing a relationship with HWPL following the September 18 event in 2023 has become a light of healing and hope for our school and children. Now, our teachers will become messengers of peace and teach so that tears are never repeated on this land.”

Starting with this graduation ceremony, HWPL and DPE plan to expand the scope of peace education throughout Lesotho and regularize the teacher training process. The teachers who received certificates will play a key role in instilling peace values in students at all levels of schools, contributing to the establishment of sustainable peace and social harmony in Lesotho.

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Klapmuts Community Celebrates Evolving Identity with Unveiling of New Town Signboard

KLAPMUTS, SOUTH AFRICA – Residents and community leaders gathered at the Klapmuts Multipurpose Hall on Saturday, 7 March 2026, to witness a landmark moment in the town’s history: the official unveiling of a new signboard that recognises the growing identity and shared heritage of the area.

The ceremony, which commenced at 10h30, served as both a celebration of recent progress and a reflection on the collaborative journey that led to this physical milestone. Located between Paarl and Stellenbosch, Klapmuts has seen a significant shift in its social landscape over recent years, increasingly becoming known as a “Shincheonji Town” through a deep-rooted partnership with the Shincheonji (New Heaven New Earth) Church of Jesus.

Community members gather around the newly unveiled Klapmuts town

The new signboard is the culmination of three years of community-led initiatives. From community welfare and volunteer service projects, to grassroots development initiatives, relief and outreach programmes, to pastoral leadership workshops, the journey defined by one goal; strengthening local relationships through unity and service.

During the course of the day, local leaders and long-term residents shared what this evolution means for the people of Klapmuts. Apostle Junette Engelbrecht, the leader of Church of Christ, commended the New Heaven New Earth Church’s intention and consistency that sparked this transformation, and highlighted the tangible impact on the town’s youth.

“I have seen that it is very good for the church to be here because they are helping the community,” she said. “It is very important for a church to understand the heart of the community and to support it. Currently many young people are struggling with drugs and gang involvement, and this kind of support is very much needed here for our youth.”

Klapmuts residents join together at the Multipurpose Hall to celebrate

The narrative of the town’s shift was further echoed by Daniel Jacobs, a resident of 60 years who has witnessed the area’s many phases. For Jacobs, the signboard represents more than a geographic marker; it represents a spiritual and social homecoming.

“Klapmuts is my heart. It is a part of me,” Jacobs said. “New Heaven New Earth Church came to unite us. United we stand, divided we fall. If the vision is to bring unity, then I will stand behind it. It is enriching to realise that I am also part of this spiritual journey.”

The event reached its climax with the official unveiling of the signboard. Addressing attendees, Ward Councillor, Alderman JC Anthony said, “With a tear in my eye, it is a heartfelt pleasure to do business with you. I, therefore, declare that Klapmuts is a new town. A Shincheonji town. A town of hope, a town of opportunity, and a town that will embrace you forever.”

Ward Councillor, Alderman JC Anthony, delivers a speech to address the attendees

Now standing as a permanent landmark, the sign serves as a symbol of the community’s resilience and its commitment to a strengthened, unified Klapmuts.

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New South African Indoor Tug-of-War Team Officially Capped After More Than A Decade

The South African Tug-of-War Federation’s Indoor Tug-of-War Team, the President’s Team, was officially capped on Saturday, 21 February 2026, at a ceremony held in Cape Town.

The capping ceremony formally recognised the pullers selected while also acknowledging the collective efforts of coaches, partners, and communities who have contributed to rebuilding the indoor code in South Africa.

The President’s Tug of War Team who will represent South Africa

Speaking at the ceremony, Federation President Luther Anton Botha described the occasion as a significant milestone in the restoration of indoor tug-of-war in the country, “This is how our national team should truly represent South Africa, the rainbow nation; from every race, culture, and background. All together with one goal – to represent our country and to excel on the world stage.”

Mr Luther Anton Botha, President of South African Tug of War Foundation

Several pullers on the new national squad were part of a tug-of-war team established by their church, New Heaven New Earth Church of Jesus, highlighting the role community structures continue to play in supporting sporting development.

“It’s a big responsibility to represent the country and carry the nation. Fortunately, we have the support of our country,” said 24-year-old puller, Yolanda Tsele. “I’m excited to not only see South Africa on the international stage, but also bring back other types of sports forms that have perhaps died or disappeared into the background of bigger, global sports.”

Proud mother, Fundiswa Tsele expressed the excitement of seeing her daughter being capped, “I’m very happy. I know she’s going places. She had to divide herself between school, church, and practice, but she managed to put that together and make it work. I’m very proud.”

The Nation of South Africa uniting all together to support the President’s Tug of War Team

Member of the Mayoral Committee for Sport, Youth, and Culture in the Stellenbosch Municipality, Councillor Ndiphiwe Olayi, congratulated the team and reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to both grassroots participation and high-performance sport, “South Africa is behind you. The flag is behind you. And never forget, we have a whole generation looking forward and looking up to this national team. So good luck, we know you will bring back the gold.”

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IWPG Empowers Global Peace Leaders Through PLTE Graduation

Global Region 6 honours 84 graduates from 8 nations, expanding international peace education networks

SEOUL, South Korea (Feb 7, 2026) — The International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Global Region 6, led by Regional Director So-yeong Park, celebrated the graduation of its ‘Peace Lecturer Training Education’ (PLTE) program.

A total of 84 graduates from eight countries—including South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland—successfully completed the curriculum. Among them, 24 individuals were recognized for finishing the specialized Peace Lecturer advanced course. 

Regional Director So Yeong Park stated in her opening remarks, “Through this education, you have cultivated the power of action to create peace starting within yourselves. We are living in an era that demands inclusion—where we must understand and respect one another beyond the boundaries of nationality, race, and religion. Therefore, today’s graduation is not an end, but a new beginning. I hope you will spread peace far and wide as messengers of peace.”

Patsy Daniel, a senior graduate of the PLTE program, offered her congratulations, saying, “PLTE graduates have chosen a calling beyond learning-to become carriers of compassion and peace. May they plant the seeds of IWPG peace education in their homes and communities, leaving a living legacy for the next generation.”

Mirriam Pooe, the Chief Director of DIRCO who completed the PLTE program, stated, “The PLTE program was a transformative journey that highlighted the importance of family-based peace and the role of the DPCW  in advancing a world without conflict through the collaboration of HWPL and IWPG.”

Graduate Soraya Crowie shared her thoughts: “My journey with IWPG highlights that peace is a creative process similar to weaving, where diverse threads must come together in harmony. Just as pulling a single thread causes a tapestry to unravel, neglecting our interconnectedness leads to global conflict and suffering. Therefore, we must act as weavers of peace by listening to each other and valuing every voice to create a resilient fabric of shared humanity.”

Graduate Gabriella expressed: “IWPG’s peace education taught me that peace is an intentional daily practice, not a matter of chance. Deeply inspired by their mission, I am now dedicated to sharing the message that peace begins with individual responsibility and expands to the world. We must all work together to nurture this shared responsibility from our homes to the global community.”

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Peace My City Environmental Clean-Up Unites Youth and Community at Sunset Beach, Cape Town

As part of the HWPL Peace My City Campaign, youth leaders, environmental activists, and community members came together for a coastal environmental clean-up at Sunset Beach, Cape Town. The initiative was held on Saturday, 31 January 2026 from 09:00 to 11:00, reinforcing a shared commitment to peace, environmental protection, and community responsibility.

Hosted and organised by Hotlane Organisation in partnership with the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), the clean-up responded to growing concerns around coastal pollution intensified by peak tourism season. Participants included youth volunteers, IPYG and HWPL volunteers, ECOP workers, and members of the general public, who actively participated in restoring the coastline.

The event was led by Mr Khotso Mogotlane, Founder of Hotlane Organisation, alongside Ms Marie Claire Tshizala, Project Coordinator at Africa Unite. Volunteers were guided through a structured programme that included an introduction to the Peace My City initiative, reflections on the importance of youth-led peacebuilding, and coordinated clean-up activities along the beach.

Aligned with the Biological Diversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) framework, the initiative highlighted the connection between environmental stewardship and peacebuilding. By protecting shared natural spaces, the project aimed to foster social cohesion, collective ownership, and long-term sustainability. The involvement of ECOP (Early Career Ocean Professionals) workers further ensured that the clean-up efforts complemented municipal waste management systems and supported ongoing environmental maintenance.

The clean-up was supported through meaningful partnerships, including Plastics SA, which donated trash bags, and Aquelle, which provided water for volunteers. Youth from IPYG, Africa Unite, and Hotlane Organisation worked side by side, demonstrating unity across organisations and communities. One of the participants, Lasconnie from Africa Unite volunteer (MARS movement) shared, “I’m very happy that I got to be a part of this initiative. This is my first time actually coming to volunteer and clean up the beach. It was a very good experience and I really enjoyed it. I think inner peace is the best peace ever. So once I have peace within myself, then I’m able to have peace with my community, my family and my environment.”

This Peace My City activity not only reduced litter and pollution along Sunset Beach but also promoted a culture of peace through action. The event strengthened relationships with local organisations, expanded youth engagement in volunteerism, and reaffirmed HWPL and IPYG’s commitment to grassroots peacebuilding in South Africa.

Through initiatives like these, Peace My City continues to show that peace is not only discussed, it is practiced through collective care for people, communities, and the environment.

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South African Women Embrace Role as Peace Builders Through IWPG Program

SAWID Completes Transformative Peace Education Program with IWPG Johannesburg

The International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Johannesburg has announced the successful completion of an eight-session Women’s Peace Education program conducted in partnership with South African Women in Dialogue (SAWID).

The program was designed to guide participants through a comprehensive journey from understanding peace as a personal value to embracing it as a collective responsibility and global imperative. Throughout the educational sessions, participants developed a deeper awareness of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) and explored why women’s unity across borders is essential for global stability and the dignity and safety of every individual and community.

The curriculum covered sessions titled Peace and I, Virtues of a Global Peace Citizens, Culture and War, The 10 Articles and 38 Clauses of the DPCW, and The Role of Women. Participants explored how peace is not an abstract ideal but a daily practice rooted in empathy, justice, and courageous action. The program was intentionally designed to invite reflection on lived experience, identity, and agency, encouraging participants to see themselves as shapers of history rather than merely witnesses to it.

The impact of the program proved both moving and measurable, with many participants expressing new clarity, renewed purpose, and a deepened commitment to becoming active peacebuilders in their families, neighborhoods, and beyond.

One participant stated that the DPCW is more than a document but rather a promise of accountability, hope, and a world where war is no longer inevitable, expressing full conviction behind its realization. Another participant emphasized that peace education empowers women to speak with truth, act with courage, and lead with love, noting that they are not waiting for peace to arrive but are actively building it through conversation, community engagement, and individual action.

Faith Van Wyk, IWPG Peace Lecturer in Johannesburg, offered a reflection on the resilience and vision of African women. She noted that African women have long been the quiet architects of survival, holding families together, bridging divides, and nurturing hope amid adversity. She expressed her belief that when such resilience is intentionally channeled toward peace as active, organized, and unwavering commitment, the ripple becomes a wave that will reshape the world. IWPG—an international women’s NGO in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations ECOSOC and affiliated with the UN Department of Global Communications—currently operates in 122 countries through 115 branches and collaborates with over 800 partner organizations in 68 nations. Its mission is unequivocal: to grow women’s global solidarity, embed peace as a lived culture, equip women as peace educators and advocates, and realize the DPCW as enforceable international law.

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Eswatini Opens a New Path to Community Peace Through Interfaith Unity

On November 27, 2025 a gathering marked by interfaith collaboration was held at Lidwala Lodge in Eswatini. More than 30 religious leaders from across Southern Africa participated in the Bible Experience Program (BEP), hosted by an international peace NGO (HWPL), to explore interfaith harmony and discuss practical approaches to fostering community peace.

The event brought together leaders from Christianity, Islam, the Bahá’í Faith, Latter-day Saints, Brahma Kumaris, and traditional religions, along with a representative of the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG). The participants shared insights based on their respective scriptures and theological perspectives and emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence through respectful dialogue and efforts to resolve interreligious misunderstandings. One attendee remarked, “If we continue this journey together, we will not only speak of peace but ultimately live in peace.”

The main session of the event, themed “The Moral Voice in Governance,” explored the influence religious leaders have in shaping social values. Participants reaffirmed the importance of inclusive religious education, expanded interfaith dialogue to counter misinformation, and strengthened cooperation among faith communities to promote reconciliation. They further agreed that the BEP—comparative scripture study initiative designed to promote reflection and mutual understanding—provides a foundation for cultivating a culture of peace among youth.

Christian leader Kolani Magongo, Chairperson of the Church Forum, expressed appreciation, stating, “I am deeply grateful to have experienced the harmony among religions. I look forward to continuing my participation in the BEP and sharing this program widely with local pastors and congregations.”

An international seminar followed, presenting real cases in which the BEP has contributed to resolving community conflicts around the world. Many participants expressed optimism that the program would play an essential role in addressing long-standing religious tensions within Eswatini.

Bahá’í representative Modison Magagula emphasized, “It is important to restore diverse religious education in Eswatini’s schools. The BEP provides young people with a valuable opportunity to engage with various scriptures in a balanced and respectful manner.”

During the event, participants were introduced to HWPL’s various peace initiatives, including the WARP Office interfaith dialogue platform, the International Religious Peace Academy (IRPA), and the BEP program. Following the formal presentations, the gathering continued with further engagement among participants on peace-related topics.

Bheki Kunene, Chairperson of the CCM Religious Council, stated, “We hope HWPL will host a national peace inauguration ceremony to unite influential religious leaders. Spreading knowledge rooted in peace and shared values is more urgent now than ever.”

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Leading Peace against Gender Based Violence by Role Play Fashion Show

On November 22, the “Self-Portraiting Fashion Show for Peace” was held at the Franco National Cultural Centre in Windhoek, Namibia, jointly hosted by the Rob Youth Foundation and the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG). The event aimed to raise awareness and encourage public dialogue on the critical issues of gender-based violence (GBV) and mental health, which remain urgent concerns within Namibian society.

The program consisted of three segments, each using forms of performance and fashion to deliver powerful social messages.

The first role-play portrayed strong emotions and the profound impact of gender-based violence and mental health struggles, with a voice-over narration that heightened the emotional message.

In the second segment, models stepped forward holding posters that advocated for ending gender-based violence, breaking the silence, supporting one another, and promoting mental health. These posters represented key challenges currently affecting Namibia.

The performance concluded with two models wearing masks, who removed them as a symbolic gesture of liberation from fear, violence, silence, and emotional suffering.

An event official stated, “We hope this fashion show effectively conveys the severity of gender-based violence and the pain experienced by victims,” adding, “We will continue to practice peace by standing with vulnerable communities and acknowledging their suffering.”

One participating model shared, “I joined because I strongly resonated with the purpose of the event. Every step—from planning to rehearsals and the final show—was enjoyable and meaningful. I hope more events and content that promote freedom and peace will continue to grow.”

The International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) is a global network of young people dedicated to building sustainable peace by fostering cooperation beyond conflict and division. Through peace education, community campaigns, and cultural initiatives, IPYG empowers youth to drive positive change in their societies. With creativity and collective action at its core, the organization leads efforts to prevent violence, promote human rights, and cultivate a culture of peace worldwide.

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Future Peace Leaders were recognised in Rustenburg

Rustenburg, South Africa – 18 November 2025 – Zinniaville High School hosted an awards ceremony to acknowledge students who participated in peace education initiatives. The event highlighted the implementation and outcomes of the school’s Peace Education activities.

Zinniaville High School has implemented the HWPL Peace Education Curriculum over the past several years. The programme is designed to help students develop self-understanding, conflict resolution skills, and community awareness. HWPL supports educators through a teacher training approach that enables them to understand and apply the curriculum in their classrooms.

HWPL Peace Education has been presented as an educational approach to addressing gender-based violence and femicide, issues that remain prominent in South Africa. The programme promotes non-violence, empathy, and understanding as key components of its learning outcomes.

The school awarded Peace Ambassador Certificates to the Matric Peace Prefects who had participated in promoting peace values on campus. The recognition reflects their involvement in peace-related activities during the academic year.

HWPL Representative addressing prize winners

During the event, student representatives delivered remarks addressing sources of conflict in school life and areas for improvement. The winning essay by student Tahir Ousman, which focused on the importance of individual peaceful behaviour, was also presented.

Zinniaville Primary School has implemented HWPL Peace Education since 2023 under the leadership of Peace Educator Ms Marise Le Roux, with approximately forty students participating. These students are expected to receive Certificates of Appreciation. A new partnership has also been established through a recently signed MOU with Gerrit Maritz Primary School in Pretoria. During the event, the HWPL SADC Manager delivered a message acknowledging Mrs Zuleikha Limalia’s involvement in international events and her contributions to peace education.

The closing remarks emphasized the importance of continued implementation of Peace Education and further collaboration with community partners. Zinniaville High School stated its intention to continue expanding student participation in peace-related activities.

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875 Students from Southern Africa Join Record-Breaking Global Bible Graduation of 60,000

In a historic moment for faith education, 59,192 students worldwide graduated from the Zion Christian Mission Center on 2 November 2025, completing an in-depth study of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. The ceremony marks the largest Bible graduation in recorded history and the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking enrollment.

Across a continent home to more than 760 million Christians, the graduation drew thousands of believers who had long sought a deeper understanding of Scripture. Among them were 875 graduates from Southern Africa, including 214 pastors, who joined 10,081 students across Africa in celebrating this milestone of faith and learning.

Southern African Graduates join the Global Record Breaking 60000 Graduation

In Southern Africa, celebrations were held simultaneously at several branch churches, including in Cape Town, honouring students who persevered through months of rigorous study while balancing work, family, and ministry commitments.

“When I first encountered these teachings, the words of Revelation were very different from what I had known,” said Pastor Nceba Mkatshane of Cape Town, a representative of the Southern African graduates. “But the perfection of the Word gave me courage. It was flawless and alive. That truth kept me going even through hardship.”

The graduation was hosted by the Zion Christian Mission Center, the educational arm of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, which has experienced remarkable global growth. Over the past four years, more than 13,500 pastors worldwide have completed the programme, with enrollment and graduation numbers continuing to rise despite ongoing challenges and misconceptions surrounding the church.

“Despite severe misunderstandings and prejudice, more and more people are being renewed through the Word,” said Director General Tan Young-jin. “This is evidence that God is with us.”

Coinciding with the graduation was the 3rd World Invitation Revelation Special Lecture, held in South Korea. The event served as a platform for interreligious dialogue and education under the theme “The Path of Understanding Led by the Bible, the Path of Peace Walked by Religions Together.” Over 1,000 participants, including 440 religious leaders from 59 countries, gathered to study the Book of Revelation together, representing Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Confucianism in a shared pursuit of understanding and peace.

Chairman Lee addresses religious leaders at the 3rd World Invitation Revelation Special Lecture

Addressing graduates worldwide, Chairman Lee Man-hee of Shincheonji Church of Jesus stated:

“Our church has mastered the Book of Revelation. If you truly want to know God’s will, come and learn the Word that leads to eternal life.”

Pastors Nceba Mkatshane, who now operates three Zion Christian Mission Centers, and Makuliwe Thomas Nzweni represented Southern Africa as guest speakers during the special lecture, underscoring the region’s growing participation in global Bible education.

Pastor Nceda presents Chairman Lee with special african sculpture

Together, the record-breaking graduation and the international lecture underscore the expanding impact of structured Bible study and the shared pursuit of unity, truth, and peace through Scripture, which is a testament to faith that transcends borders and transforms lives.