WFWP San Diego Hosts an Inspiring Bridge of Peace
Written by: Caroline Betancourt
In a beautiful blending of themes, WFWP San Diego brought together faith, community, and empowerment under the harmonious banner of "Peace Begins with Me." It all started last month when Rohida Khan, a Victims Assistance Specialist with Homeland Security, and Caroline Betancourt, WFWP Acting Chairwoman in San Diego, collaborated with Keiko Leow and Solange Weiss, officers of the San Diego chapter, to host a lovely tea gathering at Rohida's home. The gathering stemmed from Rohida’s desire to create a regular space where women could have open, meaningful discussions on faith and social issues. This led to the creation of monthly teas centered on the theme “Peace Begins with Me.”
The following month, Caroline hosted the tea to coincide with the United Nations International Day of Peace in September, whose theme this year was also “Peace Begins with Me.” In perfect alignment, Caroline featured WFWP’s Bridge of Peace at the event, held at Marie Callender’s Bakery with 30 people in attendance.
The afternoon began with appetizers, pies, and warm conversation. Zenny Kicko, who brought along three family members, delighted everyone with performances of “Andalusia” by Enrique Granados and “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy, setting the perfect tone for the program.
Caroline opened the program with a brief introduction about the International Day of Peace, followed by a video message from UN Secretary General António Guterres, where he highlighted ongoing global conflicts.
She then introduced WFWP’s signature Bridge of Peace ceremony, using an educational presentation to explain the significance of the bridge and the heart behind crossing it. Ten pairs were pre-selected to cross the bridge, with each pair sharing why this experience was meaningful to them. Volunteers were also invited to participate, making it a powerful, inclusive moment of connection.
Following the ceremony, certificates were handed out, and participants bonded over their newly formed sisterhoods. Caroline shared several actionable suggestions from the UN and WFWP on how each woman can contribute to creating a more peaceful world. The gathering concluded with a touching rendition of "Let There Be Peace on Earth," led by Keiko and Zenny, as a beautiful way to seal the event’s message.
Many attendees were so moved by the program that they purchased copies of "Mother of Peace" memoir to continue their journey of learning about peace and womanhood.
One of the most touching moments came from an unexpected source: the waitress who served the group praised the entire event, calling it one of the most beautiful gatherings she had ever witnessed.
Special thanks go to the San Diego chapter members, whose collective efforts made this event a resounding success, including Keiko Loew, Solange Weiss, Zenny and Peter Kicko, John and Maria Kenny, Alan Davis, and Sydelle and Robert Enyeart.
Here's to more events where "Peace Begins with Me" continues to inspire and connect us all!
