Across the months of June and July 2026, the International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) hosted the '8th International Loving-Peace Art Competition', inviting children and youth to share their perspectives and personal stories of peace through artistic expression. The competition has become a significant platform for advancing peace education and nurturing a culture of peace across the international community.

Elham Ahmadi (left), Founder of Mahan Art School and students from Mahan Art School holding their artworks.

Mahan Art School students using paint and other materials to create peace-related artworks on canvases.

The theme of this year's 8th International Loving-Peace Competition was 'My Peace Story'. In Sydney, Australia, students from Mahan Art School, Uniting Circle Multicultural Community Centre and other public schools created their artworks representing their own personal story and experiences of peace in their lives. The students expressed that completing the artwork was a therapeutic and calming experience, and showed enthusiasm to participate again in future events.

Students from Mahan Art School engaging in a painting session for their artworks of peace.

IWPG hosted the Global Women's Peace Forum online on 20 July, bringing together 1,067 women from four regions to discuss regional security challenges, barriers to women's leadership, and practical solutions for sustainable peace.

The first session examined the interconnected security challenges facing the Asia-Pacific region and the role of women's leadership in advancing sustainable peace. Participants also explored peace as a process rooted in individual well-being and community resilience. Breakout discussions generated practical proposals tailored to local communities.

IWPG President Na Yeong Jeon emphasised the importance of listening to women who experience local challenges firsthand, stating that sustainable peace begins when women's voices are reflected in global decision-making. The forum also promoted IWPG's Women's Peace Lecturer Training Education (PLTE) program and expanded its international peace network by strengthening collaboration among women peace leaders.

As part of the Asia-Pacific session, Sydney representative Mujgan Tahery shared insights on the vital role that Afghan refugee and migrant women partake in peacebuilding. Emphasising that "Women are not survivors; women are peacebuilders," she delivered a presentation titled Building Peace Together.

Her presentation highlighted the challenges faced by refugee and migrant communities while advocating for their recognition as leaders in peacebuilding. Participants expressed strong appreciation for her message and support for refugee and migrant women as peace leaders.

Greg Paul (middle), together with Jacqui McEwan of the Australian Federal Police (left) and Sydney Branch Manager of IWPG

The program screened the film Winnie for guests, which explores the life of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and highlights the struggle for human rights. The screening sparked thoughtful discussion among attendees, creating opportunities for networking and the exchange of ideas. As a result, IWPG connected with several new organisations and key figures, laying the foundation for future collaboration in advancing women's leadership and peace initiatives.

To celebrate the legacy of freedom, reconciliation and human dignity, United For Human Rights Australia hosted the Film Screening event in Canberra on 22nd of July, in collaboration with the South African High Commission to Australia. Executive Director, Greg Paul invited representatives of IWPG to join in the event, and engage in meaningful networking and collaboration with other important invitees and organisations at the event.

Sydney Branch Manager and Staff of IWPG, together with Kala Govind (middle), Trade Assistant of the South African High Commission to Australia

IWPG representative (left), together with Aunty Ellie (middle) and Robyn Hutchinson (right), Co-founder of Voice from the Heart Alliance.

During the month of July, IWPG representative participated in the Women Reconciliation Network held at Redfern Community Centre to meet with First Nations Elder, Aunty Ellie. The meeting focused on discussing strategic plans to strengthen collaboration and identify ways to better support and engage with First Nations communities through future initiatives.