July 7, 2025 – Helping communities grow and develop is a core goal of WPDI. Whether through Conflict Resolution Education (CRE) initiatives in schools or ICT programs at our Community Learning Centers (CLCs), we offer opportunities for local residents in underprivileged areas, especially youths and women, to access practical courses that can transform their lives and empower them to become proactive peacemakers within their communities.
In the community of La Presa in Tijuana, Mexico, we recently held two special graduations, marking significant milestones for local students, teachers, and residents participating in WPDI’s “Make Peace Happen” Program.
At the Félix Ortega Aguilar elementary school, a group of 31 students from 5th and 6th grade and 15 teachers completed a 12-session course in CRE. Over the course of several weeks, they explored topics such as human rights, communication skills, emotional intelligence, negotiation, and mediation. The principal and WPDI’s program manager both shared messages of gratitude during the closing event, acknowledging the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the participants.
The impact of the course was clearly reflected in the voices of those involved. Karely, a participating teacher, shared: “The knowledge I obtained will surely help me develop my classes better and prepare them with many more examples. As teachers, I believe we need to always update ourselves in new techniques and ways to reach the minds of our students. I am grateful for this great training.” Many teachers echoed this sentiment, noting that the training had made a clear difference in how they conduct their classes and connect with their students.
Students, too, spoke of the course as both educational and enjoyable. Eleven-year-old Santiago said, “This class was very fun and I liked the exercise with the radio show. The trainer is fun and I learn about peace and how to be nice to others so we can have a better world.” His words reflected the broader goal of the program, which is to plant the seeds of peace in peoples’ minds as early as possible, at the grassroots level, equipping young people with the tools to communicate respectfully, manage conflict, and build more harmonious communities.
Meanwhile, another group of 15 community members celebrated their own graduation at the WPDI CLC after completing an intensive course in Canva design. This course, developed by trainer Jorge in response to popular demand, included hands-on assignments in creating party invitations, social media graphics, and educational posters. Though just six in-person sessions, the course was rigorous, with plenty of homework designed to build real-world creative skills.
Graduates presented their final projects with pride, and the program manager and coordinator congratulated trainer Jorge for the outstanding feedback he received from participants. One of them, Roxana, shared: “I have very much enjoyed taking Excel and CANVA at the community learning center. I learned about WPDI through my neighbor and I am thrilled to be here. I loved the Earth Day activity we had a couple of weeks ago and I feel perfectly at home here. I will be back for the intermediate level.”
Another participant, Laura, highlighted the communal nature of the program: “I am taking this training with my two sisters and my mother. I have had so much fun! Teacher Jorge is great and I feel at peace every time I am here. I did my invitations myself—I am very proud of myself! I will definitely be back!”
These stories are a reminder that learning is not only about gaining knowledge, but also about building confidence, connecting with others, and creating opportunities for peace and personal growth. Whether in a primary school classroom or a community design workshop, the spirit of transformation is a clear inspiration: when people are given the tools to learn and express themselves, they help shape a more peaceful and empowered future for all.