In this discussion, Tarek Al-Zoughbi will add to perspectives on the reality of life and activism under occupation, with focuses on policies, peace-building processes, and Palestinian leadership. The conversation will also include lessons learned from engagement with the Palestinian/Arab traditions of Sulha (Conflict Mediation) as well as some of the challenges and needs of practicing conflict transformation.

Tarek Al-Zoughbi is a Christian Palestinian American, who was raised in the little town of Bethlehem. He received a B.S. in Economics and Peace Studies from Manchester University, Indiana, and his M.A. in International Cooperation and Development from Bethlehem University. Since 2016, he has worked as the Project and Youth Coordinator at Wi’am: The Palestinian Conflict Transformation Center. Tarek is active in Civil Society and has served on the Executive Board of the National Coalition of Christian Organizations in Palestine, as the coalition’s treasurer, and took part in 3 choirs, and had the privilege of being part of the World Council of Churches “12 Face of Hope Campaign”. He now is working on a double M.A. in Conflict Resolution from George Mason University, and Mediterranean Security form the University of Malta. Upon completion he looks forward to returning to Palestinian society and continuing his work with Wi’am.