While the mistrust and conflict between religious and political groups in South Asia dates back centuries, current circumstances—the spread of disinformation, the rise of authoritarian regimes, intrusions into religious freedoms, among other things—have exacerbated the hostilities, in particular, fueling a rise in radicalization among the region’s youth.
This is alarming for many reasons, not least of which is that what happens there directly affects one-fifth of the world’s population. While the conflict doesn’t attract as much media attention as some others do, that lack of coverage certainly runs counter to the global impact, economically and politically, that it could well have. South Asia is a place of significant potential, with its diverse cultural heritage, openness to technical innovation and business opportunities, to name just a few aspects.
Read the latest Seeds of Peace news from South Asia ››
We are so glad that you are interested in Seeds of Peace programs in India and Pakistan.
Whether you have attended past programs or are new to Seeds of Peace, welcome! Please pay special attention to the eligibility requirements (grade level, etc.) for each program.
Core Leadership Program
Who: Current 9th-11th graders
When/Where: Next rounds are being planned; sign up to be alerted when applications open.
During your Core Leadership Program experience, you will take part in a series of workshops and dialogues, as well as leadership and action-taking opportunities, all while being a part of a tight-knit cohort of young people representing different backgrounds, identity groups, and lived experiences. You will come away ready to take part in other increasingly rigorous Seeds of Peace leadership programs that challenge and push you to deepen your engagement in your community. You will also be ready to mobilize and take action to create more just and inclusive societies in solidarity with others.
Dialogue Academy
Who: Current 9th-11th graders
When: January to March & September to November
Where: This is a hybrid online/in-person opportunity offered in partnership with and at your school’s campus
The world has seen a diminishing space for meaningful dialogue over the myriad of macro challenges that we needed to come together on. Social media held promise but might have furthered the prevalent fear. The dialogue academy courses identifies students with leadership potential and trains them on Seeds of Peace’s methodology of dialogue, amongst other tracks and equips them with the skillset to create spaces where stakeholders from disparate power dynamics can be brought to the same table. With our vision of building a more just and equitable future society, Dialogue Academy learning tracks are a first in a series of learning tracks, ranging from national, regional and international training opportunities.
Seeds of Peace Camp
Who: Current 9th-11th graders who have attended or will attend a Seeds of Peace Intensive program before the start of camp
Where: Maine, Untied States
When: July 27 to August 15, 2023
The Seeds of Peace Camp brings together youth of different racial, religious, political, and socioeconomic backgrounds on the shores of Pleasant Lake in Otisfield, Maine, to participate in community-building, dialogue, leadership development, and action-taking through Camp activities including athletics, team building, waterfront (swimming and boating), dialogue, group challenge, arts, and music.
Apply to attend the Seeds of Peace Camp in summer 2023 ››
Alumni Programs
Who: Seeds of Peace alumni ages 18+
Where: Worldwide
GATHER offers alumni access to community, connections, and critical resources needed to fuel change.
“After making Indian friends, I now know that Indians have similar mentalities, similar ideologies, and they are people just like us.” — Fahad (Pakistani Seed)