Leadership

Aerospace engineer & author

Patrick Lester worked with a team at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to develop TCAS, the Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System, which alerts pilots to aircraft in dangerous proximity and provides guidance to prevent mid-air disasters. At NASA, he was part of the Space Biology Initiative, defining which science missions would be flown on the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. Beyond his aerospace career, writing as Patrick Livanos Lester, he penned Nine Days in Milan, a novel examining human trafficking. Throughout his fiction, he probes the difficult choices individuals face when personal ethics clash with the path of least resistance.

Singer & songwriter, Peter, Paul & Mary

"Your song, as in the 60s, remains a striking anthem for our aspirations of peace, a unity of spirit, as brothers."

Spiritual leader & Nobel Peace laureate

"It is our responsibility as human beings to bring peace. That is why we are here, to take that responsibility and chart a path forward."

Humanitarian & spiritual leader

Amma, from Salem to Chennai to the United States, the eight unforgettable visits my wife, Janice, and I shared with you have been powerful and uplifting. I’m grateful for all you have taught me, including your message of “shanti, shanti, shanti… peace, peace, peace.” Though we do not share the same language, I know that we have a connected heart that yearns for peace.

Former UN Under-Secretary-General

Your legendary commitment to the principles of peace, the culture of peace, which aims at making peace and nonviolence a part of our own self, our own personality, a part of our own existence as human beings. I fondly recall our first conversation at the United Nations about your then-recent recognition into the Guinness Book of World Records. In addition to your powerful message, I thank you for your advice and experience in creating this inaugural program.

Grammy-winning artist & UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador

"We are honored by your beautiful song and delighted to share your passion for peace."

Singer, songwriter & advocate

Coral, thank you for sharing so many of your talents with us. Your singing, songwriting, and advocacy for those less fortunate continues to inspire us.

U.S. Marine Corps & Army (ret.)

More than 30 years of distinguished service building trust across cultures and borders, at U.S. Embassies in Tokyo and Seoul, U.S. Pacific Command, and the Defense Intelligence Agency. Decorated with the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star Medal.

Traditional ruler, Enugu, Nigeria

His Royal Majesty blends cultural heritage with modern leadership: youth empowerment, infrastructure, food security, and interethnic unity across Enugu and beyond.

Community leader

A visionary leader whose commitment to community wellbeing reflects the innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration essential to building stronger, more resilient societies worldwide.

Rector, IMT Enugu, Nigeria

A respected scholar whose sweeping reforms in academic standards, governance, and infrastructure empower youth through education, a powerful force for sustainable peace.

International relations professional & legal scholar

Edoshe Tesfaye is an international relations professional, legal scholar, and lifelong peace advocate. She holds an LL.B. from Haramaya University and a Master’s in International Relations and Diplomacy from the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). Having served Ethiopia with distinction across foreign relations and humanitarian initiatives, Mrs. Tesfaye is currently based in the United States. She pairs rigorous legal expertise with a deep mastery of multilateral negotiations, dedicated to advancing sustainable peace building, conflict resolution, and human welfare wherever she is called to serve.

Broadcaster & co-host

I am in awe of your professionalism and poise. Thank you for sharing your time and talents to serve as co-host. Twenty-six years ago we met and I intuited your inner talent that has blossomed into who you are today.

Broadcast journalist

A trailblazing journalist shedding light on education, empowerment, economics, and governance in Nigeria, volunteering his expertise to institutions that preserve cultural heritage and promote peace.

Actress, producer & Peace Ambassador

"If we could all only see the face of God in everything and everyone, all the time, surely the world would be a kinder place."

Singer & songwriter

Jeannivée, thank you for your faith in Destination Peace. We appreciate your insight and collaboration. I will always remember sitting in on your recording session and hearing familiar songs in a resonance that transported me.

CEO & Artistic Director, San Diego International Film Festival

I enjoyed attending the San Diego International Film Festival and witnessing the mesmerizing speeches of honorees. You provide a meaningful platform for their voices.

Founder, Fashion 4 Development

Evie, from my first visit to the Fashion 4 Development show in New York to the message you shared with us today, I have always felt welcomed by you.

Composer & producer

Your unbreakable spirit and talents never end. Thank you for sharing with us your gift of song.