"Peace Begins With a Smile"— Mother Teresa
About Us
Progress In Peace is a non-governmental organisation dedicated to relief and development. We work across communities torn apart by division, building bridges of understanding through dialogue, education, and direct action. Since 2021, we've reached over 4,800 people in 12 communities across 8 countries — not with grand gestures, but with patient, human conversations that change everything.
In 2018, a group of around 50 peace leaders from different countries around the world came together for a peace building camp for one week in the city of Duhok. Another 50 people from Iraq joined the camp from different backgrounds and religions.
After this camp, we found it very valuable to keep the same ideas, principles, and values alive and to share them with others. Therefore, on August 15, 2020, a core group of two Christians, two Muslims, and two Yazidis — with equal participation of three women and three men — decided to establish Progress In Peace.
Our NGO focuses on development and relief when needed, and it is based in the Sinjar area.
A society where all people are treated equally, regardless of background or religion. We envision communities united in peace, empowered through education, and strengthened by youth, women, elders, and local leaders working together. A future where love, justice, and social cohesion replace division and violence — locally and globally.
To advocate for minorities and vulnerable communities, protecting their rights and dignity. We foster dialogue among religious and civic leaders, promote self-help and peaceful coexistence, and create safe spaces where diverse communities can live and grow together. Through education and reconciliation, we work to advance women’s and children’s rights and build unity rooted in shared human dignity.
These aren't just words on a wall. They're the principles that guide every decision, every programme, every conversation.
We treat every person with empathy, respect, and inclusivity. We listen to every story and remain people-centred in all our work.
We celebrate God as the source of our purpose and actions. We honour the universal divine recognised across religions as the foundation of human dignity, unity, and harmony.
We choose forgiveness over revenge and healing over division. We work to restore relationships and build bridges where there was conflict.
We believe real change happens together. We partner with communities, organisations, and leaders who share a commitment to service and peace.
A small, dedicated group of peacebuilders from across the globe, united by a shared belief that dialogue changes everything.
Samer Raad
Co-Founder and Executive Director
I am Samer Raad, an Iraqi who is interested in building peace and seeing our country progress. Over the years of humanitarian work, my conviction lies in the importance of peace and stability for the development of any society. That is why our organization and our work are a step towards building a society that accepts everyone and spreads love. We hope for a peaceful Iraq and the Middle East
Farhad Ali
Deputy Executive Director
My name is Farhad Ali, I am a peacebuilder, human rights advocate, activist, and journalist since 2015. I work to amplify the voices of conflict-affected and marginalized communities, especially in Sinjar. Through journalism and storytelling, I document experiences and raise awareness of the challenges they face. My work combines advocacy and media to promote justice, dialogue, and inclusive peace. I create safe spaces for understanding and empower youth to actively participate in their communities. I focus on addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering resilience. My goal is to integrate activism, journalism, and peacebuilding to support sustainable, locally driven change and a culture of coexistence in Sinjar.
Juliana
Co-Founder and Team Supporter
Juliana from Duhok, 31 years old, a graduate of the University of Duhok, College of Physics. I work as a high school teacher. I met the Peace Camp group through the second camp held in Duhok. Through my participation, I wanted to continue with the Progress in Peace organization and promote peace in the community.
Fadi Yousif
Web Developer
I am Fadi Yousif, an IT and graphic designer who is interested in peace and bringing people closer together. Through my work, I focus on creating digital designs that share positive ideas and meaningful messages. Working with the organization, I contribute by helping spread the message of peace and connection between different communities. I believe that small efforts can make a difference, and I hope to be part of building a more peaceful and understanding society.
Zeena Hameed
Program Manager
This is Zina Hanna I believe in the power of diversity and the beauty of different perspectives coming together. To me, accepting others for who they are is not just a value, but a way of life. I strive to treat people with kindness, understanding, and respect, regardless of their background or beliefs. I stand for peace, open-mindedness, and unity, and I try to reflect these principles in my everyday actions and especially at progress in peace organization. I see the world as a place where differences should be celebrated, not feared, and where compassion can create meaningful connections between people.
Ahmed Ali
Operation Manager
My name is Ahmad Ali. I am a person who believes in communication, understanding, and bringing people together. My life experiences made me stronger and helped me understand the importance of empathy, patience, and human connection. I see myself as a peacemaker by listening to others and respecting different opinions. I try to help people understand each other and stay calm in difficult situations. For me, peace is not only no conflict, but also having respect, fairness, and kindness between people. In the Progress for Peace Organization, my goal is to help build a community where people feel heard, respected, and closer to each other. I want to support others and create more understanding between people from different backgrounds.
Whether you volunteer, donate, or simply share our work — you're building peace.
