PII Launches Its 2025–2026 Youth Peace Network Program

October 30th, 2025

Peace Islands Institute officially opened the new program year of the Youth Peace Network (YPN) on Thursday, October 30th, with its first training session, “Becoming a Peace Agent,” hosted at the Sky Academy Youth Center. High school students from across New Jersey came together for an evening focused on leadership, dialogue, and community-building. The session introduced students to this year’s YPN goals, expectations, and calendar while exploring what it truly means to serve as a “peace agent” in their schools, communities, and daily lives.

The program featured an interactive overview of the year’s events, including interfaith dinners, service initiatives, youth iftars, and the annual showcase and debate night, along with discussions and opportunities for students to reflect on the role they can play in fostering empathy and understanding. A highlight of the evening was a guest presentation from YPN alumni, who shared personal reflections on the dialogue projects and service experiences they took part in during past years. Their stories offered encouragement and real-world examples of youth-led impact, inspiring this year’s cohort to carry forward the tradition of bridge-building.

Alongside the program and presentations, students enjoyed food, informal conversation, and a welcoming environment designed to form new friendships and a shared sense of purpose. With momentum already building, this first training set a strong foundation for a year rooted in service, dialogue, and youth leadership. Photos from the night capture the energy, engagement, and excitement of a new class of young peace agents ready to make their mark.