At just 22 years old, Divina Maloum has already made a profound impact on the world through her work as a peace and youth activist. Hailing from Cameroon, Divina is the founder of Children for Peace (C4P), a movement that empowers young people to become peacebuilders in their communities. Her inspiring work in advocating for children’s rights and promoting non-violence has earned her global recognition, including the prestigious International Children’s Peace Prize in 2019.
A Young Voice with a Powerful Message
Divina’s journey as an activist began when she witnessed the devastating impact of conflict and violence in Cameroon, particularly on children. Many of her peers were left without education, safety, and hope due to the Boko Haram insurgency and ongoing political instability. She recognized that children and young people were often the silent victims of violence, and yet they had the potential to become powerful voices for peace if given the right tools and opportunities.
Leading the Fight for Peace
Through Children for Peace (C4P), Divina has mobilized thousands of young people across Cameroon, Chad, Nigeria, and the Central African Republic. The organization focuses on educating children about their rights, promoting peace education, and encouraging dialogue and reconciliation in communities affected by conflict. C4P also provides psychosocial support to children who have experienced trauma, helping them heal and reintegrate into society.
Divina’s approach to peacebuilding is innovative and inclusive. She believes in using arts, storytelling, and peer education to engage young minds and make complex topics like conflict resolution and human rights more accessible and relatable. Her work also involves advocating to policymakers, urging them to include youth voices in peace processes and decision-making.
A New Generation of Changemakers
Despite her young age, Divina is a seasoned advocate, having spoken at international forums, including the United Nations. She uses these platforms to amplify the voices of marginalized children and to remind the world that young people are not just beneficiaries of peace but active agents of change.
Divina’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership has no age limit. Her unwavering commitment to peace and equality serves as an inspiration to youth everywhere, showing that one voice, no matter how young, can ignite change and foster a brighter, more peaceful world.
