From 22–23 May 2026, the Transformational Leadership Center (TLC) successfully hosted an Alternative to Violence Project (AVP) Basic Workshop in Kicukiro, Kigali, bringing together 15 committed participants from diverse backgrounds who share a common vision of becoming effective peacebuilders within their communities.
The two-day interactive training focused on equipping participants with practical skills to address conflict in constructive and nonviolent ways. Through group discussions, experiential activities, role-playing exercises, and personal reflection, participants explored the root causes of conflict and learned how to respond with understanding, empathy, and respect rather than anger or aggression.
Throughout the workshop, participants developed essential competencies in peaceful conflict resolution, effective communication, active listening, emotional intelligence, community building, self-awareness, and collaborative problem-solving. The training also emphasized the importance of self-confidence, personal responsibility, positive coexistence, and the belief that lasting peace begins with individual transformation.
One of the central themes of the workshop was the AVP principle that “Change Begins with Me.” Participants were encouraged to examine their own attitudes, behaviors, and responses to conflict before seeking to influence others. This personal transformation became the foundation for discussions on how individuals can contribute to healthier families, stronger churches, more harmonious workplaces, and more united communities.
The workshop created a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment where participants freely shared personal experiences, reflected on real-life conflicts, and encouraged one another to embrace nonviolence as a practical way of life. Many participants testified that the training challenged long-held perspectives, strengthened their confidence in handling difficult situations peacefully, and inspired them to become ambassadors of reconciliation wherever they serve.
Several participants expressed a renewed commitment to promoting dialogue instead of division, understanding instead of judgment, and cooperation instead of confrontation. They left the workshop equipped not only with practical conflict transformation tools but also with a deeper appreciation for the power of compassion, forgiveness, and mutual respect in building peaceful societies.
The successful completion of this AVP workshop marks another important milestone in TLC’s ongoing mission to develop transformational leaders who champion peace, dignity, unity, justice, and nonviolence. By investing in individuals who are willing to become catalysts for positive change, TLC continues to strengthen communities and contribute to a culture where conflicts are resolved through dialogue and understanding rather than violence.
As participants return to their homes, churches, schools, workplaces, and communities, they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to multiply the impact of the training by fostering peaceful relationships and encouraging others to embrace nonviolent solutions.
Together, we can build stronger, safer, and more peaceful communities—one transformed life at a time.
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