The Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University is participating in UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, sharing the message that lasting environmental restoration can be strengthened through inner transformation, peace, hope and collective action.
17 August 2026 – Beginning of the Journey
The participation began with the flag-hoisting and inaugural ceremony, setting a positive spirit for dialogue, collaboration and action for the planet.
The Brahma Kumaris team had meaningful interactions with Dr. Muralee Thummarukudy, Director, G20 Global Land Initiative; Ms. Yasmine Fouad, UNCCD Executive Secretary; and other Friends of Hope and Land. These interactions provided an opportunity to connect with leaders and changemakers working for land restoration, climate resilience and a sustainable future.
The Brahma Kumaris shared the message:
“Restore the Land. Restore Hope. Build a Sustainable Future.”
They also highlighted that restoration begins within. When individuals develop inner peace, clarity and positive thinking, they can create positive change in their families, communities and the environment.
17–22 August 2026 – Drops of Hope
During COP17, the Brahma Kumaris are presenting “Drops of Hope” at the Blue Zone Action Dome.
The initiative provides an opportunity for participants to pause, reconnect within and experience how inner peace can become a source of courage and positive action.
The central message is:
“Restore Land. Experience Inner Peace.”
Through meditation and reflection, participants are encouraged to discover how calmness, clarity and courage can support meaningful action for people and the planet.
19 August 2026 – Drops of Hope: Restoring Land, Empowering People
The session “Drops of Hope: Restoring Land, Empowering People” was held at the UNCCD COP17 Green Zone, Tului Hall, from 09:30 to 10:00.
The session explored the question, “What if lasting restoration begins with inner transformation?”
Participants reflected on the connection between inner wellbeing, empowerment and environmental restoration. The session highlighted the importance of creating positive change both within individuals and in the wider community.
20 August 2026 – Scaling Hope: Local Voices Driving Land Restoration and Resilience
The Brahma Kumaris, together with the Dhurbotara Youth Development Foundation (DYDF), Bangladesh, organised the UNCCD COP17 side event “Scaling Hope: Local Voices Driving Land Restoration and Resilience.”
The session focused on how local voices, lived experiences, traditional knowledge and partnerships can contribute to meaningful land restoration and climate resilience.
Speakers included Amiya Prapan Chakra Borty of DYDF, Qingyun Diao of FAO in Mongolia, Kazi Amdadul Hoque, Senior Director – Strategic Planning & Head of Climate Action, Friendship NGO, Noel Oettle of Drynet/Indigo Development & Change, and Aneta Loj of Brahma Kumaris. A recorded message from Runa Khan, Founder and Executive Director of Friendship, was also shared.
The session was moderated by Grace Lopez–Charles, Director, Brahma Kumaris Ghana.
The speakers emphasised that local communities should be recognised not only as beneficiaries but also as partners and knowledge holders. They highlighted the importance of listening to communities, respecting local knowledge, building trust and involving people in decision-making.
The discussion also brought attention to the connection between environmental restoration and human dignity, positive thinking, wellbeing and inner strength.
The programme concluded with a guided meditation on restoring the self and sharing hope with others, reinforcing the connection between inner transformation, collective wellbeing and land restoration.
20 August 2026 – Seeds of Hope: Growing Connection Within and With Nature
The Brahma Kumaris also participated in “Seeds of Hope: Growing Connection Within & With Nature”, held at the Children & Youth Resilience Hub, Blue Zone, COP17, from 16:00 to 17:30 GMT+8.
The session explored how restoring our connection within can help strengthen our relationship with nature. It encouraged young people to develop a deeper connection with the natural world and to become positive changemakers for a healthy and sustainable Earth.
The message was:
“Let’s plant hope. Together.”
21 August 2026 – Faith Voices on Regeneration
The Brahma Kumaris participated in “Faith Voices on Regeneration” at the Blue Zone Action Dome, Ulaanbaatar, from 14:30 to 16:00 (AST GMT+3).
The side event highlighted the contribution of faith communities towards land restoration through regenerative agriculture, land stewardship, education and community action.
The session brought together voices from faith-based and environmental organisations, including Tom Barasa Wafula, Amy Echeverria, Aneta Loj and Hugh Locke.
The programme also included the launch of a masterclass co-developed by the G20 Global Land Initiative and the WWF Beliefs and Values Programme.
The discussion explored how faith communities can contribute to land restoration and regeneration and help create positive action at scale.
A Message of Hope and Transformation
Through its participation at UNCCD COP17, the Brahma Kumaris is highlighting the importance of connecting inner transformation with environmental action.
The programmes provide spaces for meditation, reflection, dialogue and collaboration, encouraging people to develop inner peace and translate it into positive action for communities and the planet.
The overall message is clear:
“Restore within. Restore together.”
When we transform ourselves, we create positive ripples of change around us. By restoring hope within, we can work together to restore the land and build a more peaceful, resilient and sustainable future.
