Nair Perez-Torres, a Media Communication Studies student, was accepted as a presenting delegate for the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates. The conference was held September 16-21, 2024, in Monterrey, Mexico. Her conference travel was funded by a scholarship provided by former College of Communication and Information Dean Larry Dennis.
“Participating in a conference like this was a huge honor for me,” shared Perez-Torres. “I was able to connect with like-minded folks worldwide, as well as learning directly from Nobel Peace Laureates at the conference.”
Perez-Torres served as a principal co-presenter with the PeaceJam Foundation at a session titled “Ignite Your Impact: Crafting Campaigns for Change”. Her session focused on equipping participants with the tools necessary to build effective campaigns for social change. She shared how to craft a message for campaign-branding, how to effectively present yourself, and how to make information accessible to your audience. The workshop culminated in participants creating and presenting their own campaigns, that addressed key issues within their communities.
Reflecting on the experience of representing both Florida State University (FSU) and the PeaceJam Foundation on a global stage, Perez-Torres expressed a sense of personal growth and professional accomplishment.
“One of the most powerful takeaways for me came from a session led by the Gandhi Foundation. They shared the story of how Gandhi’s journey as a peace leader began with a single negative experience, being kicked off a train, which ultimately transformed him into the figure we know today. A negative experience can trigger a lifetime of positive influence” said Perez-Torres.
Perez-Torres is eager to apply the knowledge and insights-gained at the summit-to help foster peace and build stronger communities at home. “I hope to bring back to FSU the belief that we are not alone, and that every day we are closer to a world with peace. The state of the world might be frightening and terrible, but it is human nature to stick together and take care of each other. Even worldwide, people have the same goal to nurture peace and love and take care of one another. Peace is attainable!” she shared.