The International Peace Gala 2025 Celebrates Diversity, Partnership, and Global Unity
FOWPAL Champions Transparency and Integrity as Cornerstones of Global Peace
In honor of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) and the UN-declared International Day of Peace, the COJEP International, the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL), and more than a dozen organizations co-hosted the International Peace Gala 2025: Peace Through Cultural Diversity and Diplomatic Partnership. The event brought together diplomats, NGO leaders, artists, and peace advocates united in their commitment to advancing peace and sustainability worldwide.
Rev. Emmanuel Agyemfra, Lead Pastor of Leonia United Methodist Church (UMC), and his wife, Dr. Afia Sun Kim, warmly welcomed participants. Rev. Agyemfra described the gathering as a celebration of peace, diversity, and unity, emphasizing that respect for diversity is the foundation of peace. He invited distinguished guests, families, and community members to join in harmony and expressed hope for a brighter, more peaceful future.
The evening’s program was moderated by Global Peace Ambassador H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe, Dr. Lucita Simervil, Nicole Cornetti, and King Raj.
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, President of FOWPAL, delivered an inspiring address, stating, “Transparency is the first step in overcoming prejudice. Where there is transparency, there is integrity; where there is integrity, there is action to advance peace; and where peace is advanced, humanity can succeed in building a world of sustainable peace.” Stressing that 2025 presents both challenges and opportunities, he called for greater transparency, cooperation, and conscience-driven dialogue to achieve sustainable peace, inviting all to support the promotion of the International Day of Transparency and Integrity.
A highlight of the evening was the Bell of World Peace and Love ceremony. Dr. Hong rang the bell nine times, wishing for the awakening of conscience and global peace. He underscored that conscience is the driving force for positive change and urged collective action to safeguard human rights. Attendees then observed a moment of silence, sending heartfelt wishes for peace and harmony around the world.
Distinguished guests also delivered peace messages. Dr. Samarth Joseph, Founder and CEO of Espoir Youth Program, stressed that international peace can be realized through cultural diversity, diplomatic partnership, and unconditional love. “You cannot promote peace without integrity,” she added, urging humanity to live by love and integrity so that future generations may inherit a just and harmonious world.
Dr. Charles Waters, Founder and President of the Dr. Charles S. Waters Theological Seminary, celebrated the global significance of current peace efforts. Deeply moved by the bell ringing, he praised Dr. Hong’s worldwide contributions and shared his vision of planting “seeds of peace” in every person’s “garden,” fostering understanding and harmony across nations.
Dr. Monica Sanchez, Founder of Miss CARICOM International Foundation, honored Dr. Hong as the “Secretary General of Peace” for his lifelong dedication to spreading peace. Drawing from her own story—born to a 12-year-old mother, homeless by nine, yet later achieving advanced degrees and addressing the UN over 25 times—she urged attendees to leave with a mission of compassion, justice, and peace.
Dr. Hugues Sanon, Special Envoy to the UN for the COJEP International, delivered a keynote address and presented awards to several honorees. Dr. Hong received the Global Peace and Sustainability Leadership Award, the Global Harmony Peace Award, and the Global Diplomacy Award in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to peacebuilding and humanitarian service.
The evening also featured cultural performances, including music by Dr. Jeawon Chung, Susanna Bowling, and FOWPAL’s A Prayer for Peace. Two fashion shows added artistic expression, celebrating unity and diversity through creativity. Designer Valda Reiny noted that every stitch and color in her designs was chosen with peace and love in mind. Fourteen-year-old Sophia from Brooklyn echoed the spirit of the event, reflecting, “Find peace in yourself before finding it in others.”
Throughout the program, voices of appreciation highlighted Dr. Hong’s global leadership. Rev. Agyemfra described his presence as historic and meaningful, while Dr. Joseph praised him as a powerful leader who inspires both young and old to embrace and share peace.
With the conviction that transparency and integrity are essential to global peace, FOWPAL members invited attendees to endorse the Declaration of Transparency and Integrity, receiving warm support.
The International Peace Gala 2025 concluded with a resounding commitment to unity, cooperation, and hope—reinforcing the vision of building a sustainable and harmonious world for all.
