The First Day of the International Peace Festival in Toronto

On September 21, the International Peace Festival officially opened at Toronto City Hall, bringing together diplomats, cultural leaders, and representatives of international organizations to celebrate peace, unity, and global dialogue.

Opening

The day began with an inspiring musical performance by world-renowned soprano Giorgia Fumanti, UNESCO Peace Ambassador, whose voice set the tone for a ceremony dedicated to harmony and hope.

Messages from the Dignitaries

Throughout the opening ceremony, dignitaries and consuls general shared their reflections on peace:

• Dr. Alvin Curling — President, International Peace Alliance, underlined the importance of dialogue and solidarity.

• H.E. Sabah Al Rafie — Ambassador of the Kingdom of Jordan to Canada, spoke on Jordan’s contribution to peace.

• Dr. Eric Pierre — Consul General of Haiti, highlighted the tragic humanitarian crisis in Haiti and stressed that true peace is rooted in human rights.

• Mr. Radek Machů — Consul General of the Czech Republic, emphasized that peace is the foundation of justice, equality, and dignity.

• Dr. Luca Zelioli — Consul General of Italy, referred to the olive tree as a universal symbol of peace and growth.

• Dr. Takeshi Matsunaga — Consul General of Japan, reminded the audience of the Peace Bell ceremony at the UN Headquarters and noted that Secretary-General António Guterres mentioned Ukraine among today’s conflict zones.

• Dr. Peter Taylor — Consul General of Ghana, stressed the need for multilateral diplomacy and respect for human rights.

• Thandile Babalwa Sunduza — Consul General of South Africa (through her representative), spoke of peace as a way of life, rooted in love and respect.

• Representative of Venezuela — called on everyone to become agents of peace in politics, communities, and families.

• Ali Emirian — representing the Consul General of Turkey, underlined that peace is a universal right of every child, family, and community.

• H.E. Ms. C.J. Augustine — Former Ambassador of Grenada to the EU, spoke on international solidarity.

• Dr. Manuel Alejandro González — Vice Consul of Colombia, highlighted the importance of unity, empathy, and dialogue.

• Representatives of Germany, Guatemala, Bahamas, Estonia also delivered greetings.

• Francesco Serafini — Director of the Gardens for Peace program, presented the symbolic Garden of Peace initiative, now also taking root in Toronto.

Atmosphere and Connections

The opening ceremony reflected an atmosphere of gratitude, dialogue, and shared commitment.

Nadiya Yashan, representing both Business Woman magazine and Business Woman PRO Canada, an organization that unites women in business. She shared with participants about our upcoming International Business Woman Forum in February and invited them to join us in Canada.

What’s Next

The International Peace Festival continues. This evening, film screenings will take place in Toronto as part of the program, and Nadiya Yashan look forward to attending and sharing more impressions soon.