A New Vision for Peace Emerges in Washington, D.C.
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, UPF USA hosted its first Ambassadors for Peace Assembly, a gathering created to help bridge divisions in today’s fragmented social landscape. More than a traditional networking event, the Assembly brought together leaders from government, faith, business, and civil society to promote a culture of leadership grounded in shared values and collective action.
The program opened with an invocation by Rev. Zagery Oliver, Vice President of UPF North America, and was moderated by Nestor Bayasgalan. Mr. Fortune Winter, Secretary General of UPF USA, introduced UPF’s “Five Principles of Peace,” outlining the organization’s global vision. Dr. Michael Jenkins, President of UPF North America, followed with remarks on UPF’s initiatives and the high standards expected of Ambassadors for Peace. During the ceremony, several distinguished leaders were appointed as Ambassadors for Peace, including Dr. Leyla Mammadli, CEO of the Cultural Diplomacy & Development Foundation; Ms. Fatma Yolchuyeva, Counselor of the Embassy of Azerbaijan; Ms. Lima Anwari, youth and women’s human rights activist; Dr. Chaima Amari, Human Rights Consultant for the U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights; Ms. Porscha Lee Taylor, President of the Washington, D.C. Chapter of Youth for Human Rights International; and four Youth Ambassadors for Peace: Mr. Ameer Hamza Panjri, Miss Juniyah Bowe, Miss Azaniah Asif, and Miss Azaliah Asif.
Following the appointments, UPF USA President Mrs. Kaeleigh Moffitt delivered a compelling presentation titled “Shared Humanity in an Age of Fragmentation.” Drawing inspiration from the lives of Nelson Mandela and George Washington, as well as the vision of UPF founders Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, she emphasized the importance of viewing the world through a parental lens that sees humanity as one family under God.
The assembly concluded with a thoughtful panel discussion featuring Rev. Dr. Sucharitha Cole, Minister Seemab Asif, and Mrs. Aparna Madireddi. Addressing the meaning of seeing others as one human family, panelists highlighted the need to recognize the inherent dignity of every person and move beyond religious or national labels through God-centered compassion. They also discussed challenges to living out shared humanity today, citing division amplified by the digital age, and proposed active listening and embracing differences with a parental heart as essential solutions.
With 67 guests in attendance, including 35 first-time participants, the event marked a vibrant and meaningful step forward in translating the vision of peace into practical, cross-sector cooperation.