Belizeans Recognised for Promoting Peace and Unity

Belizeans from across public service, education, health, activism, and the creative sector were recently recognised at the World Leader Summit of Love and Peace, an international event focused on promoting unity, compassion, and non-violence.

Hosted by the Federation of Love and Peace, the summit brought together Prime Minister, John Briceño, Belize City Mayor, Bernard Wagner, government ministers, ambassadors, and civil society leaders. The organisation presented its Compass Clock of Conscience Award to several Belizeans in recognition of their contributions to society.

Recipients included Jermaine Burns of the Belize Defence Force, University of Belize lecturer Karen Simplis, palliative care specialist Dr Anya Moguel, creative sector leader Karen Vernon, Inspiration Center executive director Joycelyn Lopez, Michele Irving, founder of POWA (Productive Organization for Women in Action), and former UDP leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow.

At the summit, Barrow spoke about the ongoing global need for peace, noting conflicts in Ukraine, Iran, Israel, Gaza, Congo, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, and Venezuela. “There are so many places around the world where war has torn countries apart. And so definitely we need to promote peace and love,” he said.

The Compass Clock of Conscience is a symbol designed by FOWPAL to represent time, direction, and life goals, and to remind individuals to act with conscience, integrity, and purpose. The award has been presented to leaders around the world to acknowledge efforts that contribute to social well‑being and peace initiatives.