The Middle East/Africa Regional Conference provides a platform for PTPI members and supporters to meet and discuss worldwide issues as well as attending sessions increasing their involvement with PTPI Chapters, learning creative techniques to overcome problems, and to ensure chapter sustainability.
The second annual Middle East/Africa Regional Conference was held in Izmir, Turkey from June 26 – July 1, 2009. The 2009 Regional Conference’s central theme was Conflict Resolution and Management. After a great success during the 2008 Conference which took place in Egypt from September 11 – 16, 2008 with the theme: Inspiring Youth to Take the Lead.
During the 2009 Regional Conference participants attended sessions designed to develop professional skills and personal growth. They learned about types of conflict and shared personal experiences related to each type. As a result, participants realized conflicts are not restricted to local, regional or international levels. Rather, every individual experiences conflict each day.
Participants from Egypt, Lebanon, Nigeria, South Africa and Turkey attended. Five PTPI chapters were represented:
- PTPI Izmir, Turkey Chapter
- PTPI Lagos, Nigeria Chapter
- PTPI Beirut, Lebanon Chapter
- PTPI Cairo, Egypt (Pharaohs of Peace) Chapter
- PTPI Durban, South Africa (Hillcrest High School) Student Chapter
Also in attendance, were Troy Nash, PTPI’s Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Hany Adly, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees/Middle East & Africa; and Dr. Altan Kodanaz, a member of the Board of Trustees who resides in Turkey and the United States.
Each day, delegates participated in sessions related to different themes. Chapter members also had the chance to present their chapter activities. Many ideas were shared, and many questions were answered. All were inspired by the work PTPI members do daily to promote PTPI’s mission in their communities.
Conference highlights:
- Cocktail reception with Izmir’s vice mayor
- Welcome dinner with PTPI officials
- Visits to the beautiful sights of Izmir
- Discussions about best practices for chapters
- Meetings with PTPI staff members to discuss chapter-related matters
- Opportunities to collaborate on projects to address regional problems
- Conference sessions on conflict resolution, chapter management, social entrepreneurship, negotiation skills and techniques and the work of various social organizations
Throughout the conference there were different daily themes, all under one umbrella of Conflict Resolution and Management. Here is an example of what the participants have experienced:
“Negotiation as a Conflict Resolution Tool”
Delegates learned about different societies and the importance of their roles as individuals in the community. They examined the types of conflicts that exist, how to identify them and how best to resolve them. Moreover, they discussed negotiation techniques that are helpful personally and professionally. One of the powerful sub-sessions was the Story-Telling with each person sharing a story about a personal conflict that they have resolved or are still trying to resolve. The latter discussion brought everyone closer and formed bonds between the delegates.
“Social Entrepreneurship as Conflict Resolution Strategy”
Delegates were divided into groups and worked together to use the resources around them to build items instructed by the session facilitators. A team leader directed each group, and then switched into a different group, creating a fun, interesting look at each leader's influence and how the team members worked together. Afterward, the delegates learned about and discussed different points of view and distinctions among social entities, nongovernmental organizations, socially responsible businesses, foundations and business organizations. After interesting discussions about stakeholders and social entrepreneurship, delegates participated in excursions around Izmir and outside it.
“Working across Borders”
The final day of the conference was full of energy, ideas and combined passion to create a better world. Delegates had a chance to implement what they had learned during the past few days by creating action plans for the Middle East/Africa region. Together, they identified problems and issues that need to be addressed in several communities around the region. Then, they narrowed the list down to include activities to be implemented across borders until they meet again for the 2010 Middle East/Africa Regional Conference and share their successes. For their activities during the coming year, they chose the theme "Cultural Understanding and Breaking Stereotypes" Four projects have been proposed to PTPI's regional office and are pending approval.
Delegates of PTPI's 2009 Middle East/Africa Regional Conference
Click here to watch videos taken during the conference
