UNESCO RILA Spring School 2024 - Place of Hope, Peace and Care.

This year, the UNESCO RILA Spring School delved into the essence of words and languages, focusing on communication, discourse, repertoires, and the significance of silence. We heard "Welcome" spoken in numerous languages, explored the healing power of poetry, and appreciated the comfort found in silence. The language of music, dance, and theatre was embraced by all.

The UNESCO conference was profoundly enriching, offering deep insights into intercultural, interethnic, and interlingual connections. I enjoyed sessions ranging from gardening to the intricate craft of creating a silver ring inscribed with a word of care. My ring bore the word "Nurture," while I shared my word "Xar? Bülbül," symbolizing Peace, Justice, and Reunion.

I also immersed myself in poetry and song sessions, which added a lyrical dimension to the conference, helping me understand people's life experiences, tragedies, and paths to healing.

One of the highlights was presenting a session on my mother tongue, Azerbaijani, which provided an intimate exploration of my linguistic heritage. Equally memorable was the Azerbaijani tea ceremony, a ritual that encapsulated the essence of my culture in every sip. I was thrilled to receive positive feedback from my colleagues and friends regarding the beauty of our culture and language.

Amidst this diverse gathering, it was heartwarming to witness a collective pursuit of a singular goal: peace on Earth. The conference was a mosaic of humanity, with participants ready to embrace one another and extend a helping hand. I met countless remarkable individuals, each contributing to a tapestry of shared knowledge and understanding.

I am deeply grateful to those who made this opportunity possible, especially to Prof.Alison Phipps — a wonderful person leading me in my PhD journey—allowing me to join an amazing group of passionate, dedicated, and sensitive people striving for mutual understanding, care, and peace. Special thanks to Bella Hoogeveen , whose kindness and warmth helped organize my sessions, enabling me to contribute to the Spring School. And of course, to my team of Azerbaijani students, especially Laman Aliyeva , Narmin Aliyeva , Shabnam Mammadova , Shamkhal Ganizade and many other friends whose names I have not mentioned but their contributions to the sessions also mean a lot.

This experience has reaffirmed my belief in the potential for our world to become a harmonious and unified place.

I would like to conclude with a beautiful sentence from Vera Rubin, which I received as surprising advice from the Universe during the Chinese language session presented by my lovely friend 汪筱薔 (Hope) :

"Each one of you can change the world, for you are made of star stuff, and you are connected to the universe."

Let's help the world embrace its Spring!