In Search of Peace: Voices from Divided Communities
Following on from their conversation on the Presentation Stage, this session welcomes Palestinian peacebuilder Aziz Abu Sarah and Israeli peace entrepreneur Maoz Inon. Joined by Eiqan Ahmad Shams, a young leader serving as Advisor to the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Holy Land, they will discuss their collective experiences of grief and loss, and how to channel this into prioritising peacebuilding. Emphasising the vital role of interfaith dialogue, Aziz, Maoz and Eiqan will explore what it takes to move from division toward reconciliation.
Speakers
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Eiqan Ahmad ShamsAdvisor to the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Holy Land (Israel and Palestinian Territories)Eiqan Ahmad Shams
Speaker
Advisor to the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Holy Land (Israel and Palestinian Territories)
Eiqan Ahmad Shams is a 23-year-old legal and media professional from Israel, serving as Advisor to the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Holy Land (Israel and Palestinian Territories). Recently selected as a Global Young Leader 2025 by NGIC and a NOVA Project – ICCAR UNESCO Alumni, he brings a unique perspective on interfaith dialogue and conflict resolution. Eiqan completed a dual degree at Reichman University — LLB in Law and BA in Government, International Relations & Strategy, specializing in Counterterrorism and Homeland Security. His experience includes work at the Israeli State Attorney's Office and participation in the International Humanitarian Law Clinic, conducting research on international conflicts in collaboration with NATO-SHAPE legal teams. He plays a key role in organizing conferences that bring together leaders from diverse backgrounds in the Holy Land, fostering trust and understanding between Arab and Jewish communities, particularly following recent regional conflicts. Fluent in Arabic, Hebrew, English, Hindi, and Urdu, he bridges cultural and linguistic divides in his peacebuilding work.
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Maoz InonCEO, InterAct PeaceMaoz Inon
CEO, InterAct Peace
InterAct PeaceAfter losing his parents in the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023, Israeli peace entrepreneur Maoz Inon turned his grief into a global call for reconciliation. Beginning with grassroots communities and extending to universities, parliaments, and global forums, he inspires audiences with his conviction that “Peace is possible” and “Hope is an action.” Honored in 2024 with the Franco-German Human Rights Prize and the Shared Living Award, Maoz has become a leading voice for peace. His collaboration with Palestinian partner Aziz Abu Sarah has drawn international recognition, from their opening talk at the 2024 TED Conference — ranked among the year’s most-watched — to being embraced and receiving the public support of the late Pope Francis at the Arena di Pace in Verona, and later renewed endorsement by Pope Leo XIV. Together, they are co-authoring The Future Is Peace, forthcoming from Crown Publishing in Spring 2026. A pioneer of peace-driven tourism, Maoz previously founded the Jesus Trail, the Fauzi Azar Inn in Nazareth, and the Abraham Hostels & Tours, advancing shared experiences across the region.
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Aziz Abu SarahCo-founder of InterAct Peace, Co-Founder MEJDI ToursAziz Abu Sarah
Co-founder of InterAct Peace, Co-Founder MEJDI Tours
InterAct Peace, MEJDI ToursDriven by the profound loss of his brother at the hands of Israeli soldiers, Palestinian peacebuilder Aziz Abu Sarah transformed his pursuit of revenge into a lifelong dedication to reconciliation. From his native Jerusalem to over 60 countries, Aziz pioneers innovative initiatives that bridge divides. He co-founded MEJDI Tours in 2009, a leader in responsible travel renowned for its Dual Narrative™ method, employing both Israeli and Palestinian guides to foster understanding. Recognized as one of the "500 Most Influential Muslims in the World" since 2010 and a National Geographic Explorer and TED Fellow, Aziz demonstrates the power of travel for peacemaking. He also co-founded InterAct International and previously directed the Center for World Religions, Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University, as well as chairing the Parents Circle–Family Forum. His impactful collaboration with Israeli partner Maoz Inon, including a top-viewed TED Talk and the late Pope Francis’s support, as well as renewed endorsement from Pope Leo XIV, has garnered global attention. Author of "Crossing Boundaries" and "Strangers, Neighbors, Friends," Aziz has recently completed co-authoring a book with Maoz Inon, The Future Is Peace, which is scheduled for publication in Spring 2026 by Crown Publishing.