Diplomatic Reflections – From the Alleys of the Old Towns to the World

In a celebration of culture, heritage, and youth-driven diplomacy, Sharek Youth Forum, in partnership with the Young Diplomats Academy and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), proudly presents the Diplomatic Reflections initiative.

This initiative stands as a Youth, Peace, and Security initiative, aimed at transforming the narrative of Palestine and Palestinian youth through the tool of public diplomacy. By highlighting the rich cultural and historical identity of Palestine, this initiative helps reshape the global perception of the Palestinian people, fostering peace and security in the community. Through the lens of youth, this project amplifies the voices of the next generation, inspiring solidarity and countering stereotypes.

 This initiative which is led by the participants of YOUTH LEAD program helps to empower young Palestinians to rediscover and reimagine the old towns of Nablus, Ramallah, Hebron, and Bethlehem, using the power of storytelling, local heritage, and digital content to connect Palestine with the world.

What Is Diplomatic Reflections?

Diplomatic Reflections is a youth-led initiative that brings public diplomacy to life in the vibrant alleyways and hidden corners of historic Palestinian towns. Through guided research trips, interviews with elders and artisans, and the production of short films and reels, the initiative reintroduces local heritage to both local and global audiences.

The content created – whether a story from an old market or a recipe passed down generations – will be shared digitally to promote a deeper understanding of Palestinian identity, culture, and resilience. By doing so, Diplomatic Reflections also contributes to the broader goal of enhancing Palestinian youth’s role in building peace, security, and resilience within their communities.

Our Goals

• Empower young people to take an active role in public diplomacy and youth-driven peacebuilding.
• Showcase the beauty and historical depth of Palestine’s old towns, promoting a positive image of the Palestinian community.
• Preserve and document cultural heritage through modern digital storytelling, offering a platform to combat stereotypes.
• Promote a sense of community belonging and national identity, contributing to peacebuilding efforts in the Palestinian context.

How We Do It

 Youth Research Journeys

Teams of young participants explore old city quarters, collecting oral histories, documenting architecture, discovering traditional foods, and reviving fading customs. This not only helps preserve local heritage but also empowers youth to be agents of change in their communities, offering a fresh perspective on Palestinian identity.

Elder and Artisan Interviews

We sit with those who lived the stories—craftspeople, chefs, and elders—capturing memories and traditions that define Palestinian daily life. These conversations foster a deeper connection between generations, promoting intergenerational peace and understanding.

Cultural Content Creation

We turn heritage into reels, short documentaries, and digital posts that echo across the globe.
Slogan: “From Palestine to the World… This is Our Homeland.”
Content will be shared via Sharek and Academy platforms, and through influencers to boost outreach, ultimately changing the international conversation about Palestine and its youth.

Training in Public Diplomacy

Workshops prepare youth to represent Palestine’s culture with confidence, engaging international audiences through dialogue and creativity. By equipping young people with diplomatic skills, the initiative supports their role as ambassadors of peace and positive change.

Featured Locations

• Nablus Old City: Khan Al-Wikala, Eastern Market, Al-Shifa Bathhouse, Samaritan Quarter
• Ramallah Old Town: Dar Farah, Old Town Square, Traditional Stone Balconies
• Hebron Old City: Khuzq Al-Far, Al-Hasba Market, Ibrahimi Mosque, Bab Al-Zawiya
• Bethlehem: The UNESCO-listed village of Battir, under constant threat from settlement expansion and in need of preservation

Expected Outcomes

• 12 professionally produced reels, 3 from each town
• 5 oral histories of local figures: elders, artisans, and traditional cooks
• 3 community cultural events in the old towns
• 30 young trainees equipped with public diplomacy and storytelling skills
• Globally shared multilingual digital content promoting Palestine’s cultural richness
• Contributing to Youth, Peace, and Security efforts by empowering youth and fostering cross-cultural understanding