At Global Peace Women, our vision of “One Family under God” drives our mission to promote harmony within families and communities, transcending boundaries of race, religion, and nationality. As part of the Sunshine Family Volunteer (SFV) initiative, volunteers embrace this profound vision, recognizing that we are all part of a larger global family. This unity was celebrated on International Friendship Day (IFD), where SFV volunteers across different regions came together to honor friendships and spread the message of peace, understanding, and solidarity.
IFD is a special occasion celebrated around the world on July 30th each year. This day is dedicated to honoring the bonds of friendship and promoting global unity. It's a time to cherish the connections we have with others and to foster new relationships that contribute to a more peaceful world. The significance of IFD lies in its ability to bring people together, regardless of geographical, cultural, or social differences. It serves as a reminder of the power of friendship in bridging gaps and building stronger communities. People around the world we reinforce the values of understanding, empathy, and cooperation that are essential for a harmonious global society by celebrating this day.
This year, Sunshine Family Volunteers (SFV) took the spirit of IFD to heart with a series of impactful activities across Nigeria and beyond. From tree planting and clean-up campaigns to educational sessions and community outreach, SFV coordinators exemplified the true spirit of friendship and unity. Their efforts highlight the importance of coming together to support and uplift one another, making a positive difference in their communities and beyond.
Here's a look at how SFV coordinators marked the occasion with their unique and meaningful projects:
Nigeria:
Uniting for Peace in Makurdi
Ngunan Tar, SFV Coordinator in Nigeria, organized a heartwarming event titled "Uniting for Peace to Celebrate International Friendship Day" in Makurdi, Benue State. With just two volunteers, Ngunan and her team reached out to 5 women and 6 children, visiting family friends, presenting gifts and discussing the mission of the Sunshine Family Volunteers and Global Peace Women (GPW). The day was marked by meaningful conversations about fostering peace within the family.
"We were delighted to share the essence of International Friendship Day with our friends and their guests. It was an opportunity to spread the message of peace and highlight the work of SFV and GPW," Ngunan said.
Planting Trees for Friendship
In Kano State, Umar Aminu Umar led an activity titled "Plantingship for Friendship" at GSS Kofar Nassarawa. The event involved planting trees with school children and staff, alongside an orientation session on environmental stewardship. Despite challenges such as the school holidays and a late start, the event successfully planted nine seedlings and raised awareness about the importance of environmental care.
"Tree planting is a simple yet powerful way to connect with nature and each other. It was wonderful to see the students and teachers come together for this cause," Umar reflected.
Cholera Awareness and Education in Abuja
Halima Ali Balami, from the Fruits of Peace Club, conducted an educational session on cholera for children in Ushaffa, Abuja. The session included discussions on symptoms, causes, and prevention methods, as well as a practical handwashing demonstration. The children engaged actively, reflecting the importance of such awareness programs.
"The children were eager to learn and ask questions. It’s encouraging to see their enthusiasm and commitment to applying what they’ve learned," said Halima.
Addressing Sexual Harassment and Promoting Family Values
Aisha Bello organized a discussion on sexual harassment at Liberty Radio in Kaduna, reaching 100 individuals. The session highlighted the importance of family values in preventing societal issues and introduced the GPW and SFV initiatives.
"Raising awareness about sexual harassment and promoting family values are crucial steps in building a supportive community. It was a rewarding experience to see the positive engagement from the audience," Aisha shared.
Community Clean-Up Activity
In Abuja, Ofordu Stella led a clean-up activity, bringing together adults and children to pick up trash, weed the environment, and sort recyclable materials. This initiative not only cleaned the community but also fostered a sense of unity and shared responsibility for a healthier environment.
"Engaging the community in a clean-up activity was a great way to celebrate friendship and environmental stewardship. It was heartening to see everyone come together for a common cause," Stella noted.
Reunion and Outreach
Muniratu Jibrin organized a reunion with university friends in Zaria, where she also introduced the Sunshine Family Volunteer Program. The event was a nostalgic and enlightening experience, reinforcing the value of maintaining strong relationships and family values.
"It was wonderful to reconnect with old friends and discuss how we can contribute to our communities through SFV," Muniratu reflected.
Graduation Ceremony Inspiration
Rosemary Musa used her school graduation ceremony to inspire students and staff about the SFV initiative and the importance of peace within the family. Her presentation reached 300 students and emphasized the role of family values in promoting peace.
"Using the graduation ceremony as a platform to discuss SFV was a meaningful way to reach a large audience and encourage them to be advocates of peace," Rosemary said.
Honoring a Community Leader
Daniel David and his team honored Mr. Mang Davou, a respected community leader in Plateau State, with a gesture of appreciation. The event included a shared meal and discussions about SFV's mission, celebrating Mr. Davou's long-standing dedication to youth mentorship.
"Honoring Mr. Davou was a heartfelt way to acknowledge his contributions and share the SFV message with him and his family," Daniel expressed.
Promoting Peace in Mahuta Community
Binta Paul Bobai and the Shalom Peace Club engaged with market women in Kaduna to discuss the GPW mission and the importance of serving as agents of peace. The event included the distribution of token gifts and emphasized the role of women in fostering community harmony.
"It was rewarding to connect with local women and share the SFV message. Their response was positive and encouraging," Binta noted.
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Medical Outreach and Community Service
Folayinmi and his medical team provided free malaria treatment in Badagry, Lagos, combining health care with a historical touch by visiting a significant location. Their service emphasized the connection between health, community, and friendship.
"Offering free health care and sharing our message in such a historic setting was a profound way to celebrate International Friendship Day," Folayinmi said.
Kenya:
Engaging Street Youths
Rosemary Ataro spent International Friendship Day with boys at the Kalimoni Boys Centre in Juja, discussing the importance of friendship and family values. The event aimed to uplift the boys and encourage them to extend their newfound values to their families.
"It was a day of meaningful engagement and the boys appreciated the support and encouragement," Rosemary reflected.
Nepal:
Plastic Waste Collection
In Nepal, Shristika and friends marked International Friendship Day by collecting plastic waste along a hiking route. Their effort aimed to promote a plastic-free environment and reinforce the values of environmental responsibility and friendship.
"Our mission to keep the forest clean was a wonderful way to celebrate friendship and environmental care," Shristika said.
Cameroon:
Inclusive Friendship with Persons with Disabilities
Christy and the DOVE Peace Club in Kumba spent quality time with persons with disabilities, motivating and encouraging them while introducing them to the SFV initiative. The project aimed to make individuals feel valued and supported.
"Spending time with individuals with disabilities and showing them they are valued was a powerful way to celebrate International Friendship Day," Christy shared.
