The “I AM PEACE” Boot Camp brought together South Sudan’s most creative talents, turning their passion for art into a driving force for peace and reconciliation.
Over three dynamic days, musicians, content creators, comedians, and digital influencers worked together, not only to entertain but also to inspire and create impactful change in their communities.
Organized under the “I AM PEACE” initiative, the event was designed to equip participants with the tools to make a difference through digital media and creativity. Held under the theme “Peace is the New Cool,” the boot camp became a melting pot of ideas, laughter, and collaboration.
From spoken word artists to rising TikTok stars, everyone had one common goal – to use their platforms and talents to promote peace, bridge divides, and foster unity among South Sudanese citizens.
The event’s innovative approach sought to empower young voices to reshape narratives around peacebuilding. Participants engaged in interactive, hands-on sessions that provided practical skills in storytelling, content creation, digital strategy, and audience engagement.
These sessions focused on equipping artists with the knowledge to transform their lyrics, skits, videos, and social media presence into powerful instruments for peace and positivity.
The boot camp’s atmosphere buzzed with creativity as attendees explored how art can be a transformative tool. Beyond simply creating content, the participants discussed how their work could have a meaningful impact on individuals and communities. They envisioned ways to challenge harmful stereotypes, counter negativity, and contribute to social harmony through their work.
“This isn’t just about creating content – it’s about creating impact,” said Lord Gee, one of the participating artists. “Artists have the power to move hearts, spark conversations, and shift perspectives. When they choose peace as their message, the ripple effect can be massive.”
The idea of empowering creatives as agents of change resonated deeply with participants. They explored how their digital platforms could influence the public discourse, inspire hope, and heal fractured relationships within communities across South Sudan.
Again, the boot camp’s emphasis on positivity and peacebuilding was a refreshing approach that underscored the role of artists in shaping culture.
Furthermore, the workshops also featured sessions on overcoming challenges as creatives in a conflict-affected nation. These discussions encouraged participants to unite despite adversity and to champion a collective vision of peace and progress. The creative energy on display was a testament to the resilience and determination of South Sudan’s artistic community.
One of the boot camp’s key takeaways was the importance of collaboration. By uniting talents from various creative fields, the event demonstrated how collective efforts could amplify the message of peace. Participants shared their expertise, learned from one another, and formed connections that could extend beyond the event itself.
As beats dropped and laughter echoed through the workshop space, the energy of the event was infectious. The artists and influencers left the boot camp not just inspired, but determined to lead as cultural ambassadors for peace.
Their work is set to have a profound impact on communities, using creativity as a force for unity and reconciliation. The “I AM PEACE” initiative and its boot camp have proven that South Sudan’s creative community is rising – not just to entertain, but to inspire, unite, and rebuild a fractured nation.
