Inner Wisdom in Governance and Leadership – Acting with Courage and Compassion From May 7th –May 11th 2025, the 7th Spirit of Humanity Forum took place in Iceland under the theme "Inner Wisdom in Governance and Leadership – Acting with Courage and Compassion." The gathering brought together 160 diverse and deeply engaged global leaders, change-makers, and visionaries from over 40 countries for a profound exploration of how inner transformation can shape a more compassionate and courageous approach to leadership. Held in Reykjavík, Iceland, the Forum created a space for deep reflection, dialogue, and heart-based connection, where values such as kindness, compassion, courage, curiosity, and trust were discussed and truly lived. From high-level panels and experiential workshops to intimate conversations and musical offerings, participants collectively shaped a space of genuine presence – inviting each person to lead with deeper awareness and authenticity. Held partly in collaboration with the Wellbeing Economy Forum, the event served as a global meeting point for those committed to integrating values-based leadership with systemic change. Contributors 7th Forum 2025 Wendy Ellyatt Writer, speaker, consultant Co-creating Regenerative Cultures “"The systems we struggle with are reflections of the consciousness that created them. If we want a different future, we must cultivate different qualities within ourselves - deeper awareness, courage, compassion and relational maturity. Real transformation begins not with control, but with coherence - when our inner values and our outer structures finally align."” Read More Maruee Pahuja Expressive Arts Consultant, Visual Artist, Eye-Care Practitioner “"In liminal times, imagination becomes a form of knowing. Arts, storytelling, ritual, community and speculative practices function as laboratories where futures are sensed before they are formalized is essential for our times. This is not escapism; it is prefiguration; the rehearsal of worlds not yet stabilized that is our work as the spirit of humanity."” Read More Dr Jude Currivan Cosmologist, Author & Co-Founder, WholeWorld-View “In inviting us to realise that the only way out is in, the SOHF helps guide our re-membering that an illusion of separation has never been so dangerous and that wholeness and the power of love have never been more important.” Read More Dr Thomas Legrand Author of Politics of Being, Lead of UNDP Conscious Food Systems Alliance ““Only a profound change of minds and hearts can pave the way for peace and regeneration.” ” Read More Dr. Michael Hardy CMG OBE Professor and Chair of Intercultural Relations, Coventry University “Academic and policy communities increasingly frame today’s challenges as “wicked problems” or components of “complex adaptive systems.” It is clear: in polycrisis leaders must move beyond treating disruptions as discrete events. We need to build together and with compassion, operating models capable of continuous learning, rapid adaptation, and resilience.” Read More Sylvie Berti Rossi Social Entrepreneur, Cultural Manager, and Heartfulness Meditation Trainer “Cultivate the generosity of the heart, and life will gently unfold, guided by meaningful purpose, nourished by mutual understanding, and illuminated by the quiet wisdom of the soul. In the most authentic way, I’ve come to experience all of this within the Spirit of Humanity Forum community.” Read More Carolin Fraude Leadership Educator, Systems Facilitator, Affiliate Scholar with the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) Potsdam “Transformation becomes possible when we meet ourselves, each other, and the divine with honesty — not trying to prove anything, but staying present and transparent with what is. As we navigate profound global shifts, it’s vital to learn how to let go without giving up. In this space, new awareness and true connection can emerge.” Read More Amit Paul Entrepreneur, Systems Thinker, Podcast host and singer “The quality of the results produced by any system depends on the quality of awareness from which people in the system operate.” Read More Dr Scherto Gill Researcher, Educator & Director of Global Humanity for Peace institute “In silence, we awaken inner wisdom, seeking clarity in quiet reflection; through listening, we cultivate mutual presence, nurturing Love and caring; in dialogue, we weave our collective insights into pathways for flourishing futures.” Read More Sister Jayanti Kirpalani Additional Administrative Head, The Brahma Kumaris and UN Representative in Geneva “I see the erosion of spiritual values as the underlying cause of the crises the world is facing today. My promise is that there will come a time again when humans will follow basic spiritual laws in their lives and light will return to this world.” Read More Emelina Corrales Marine Biologist and Professional Certified Coach “When science, spirit, and purpose align, we become powerful stewards of both the planet and the human soul.” Read More Dr Filippo Dal Fiore Social scientist, philosopher, and advisor “We propose a partnership among pioneering, change-making organisations and forums, aimed at spearheading the creation of a new school and movement for wisdom leadership. This initiative will bring together some of the world’s most life-affirming and spiritually conscious leaders, scientists, and thinkers—across all continents, age groups, and cultural, professional, and faith backgrounds.” Read More Noor Balfaqeeh Head of Communication & Corporate Affairs, Unilever GCC | Strategic Advisor, Unilever Personal Care in GCC, Pakistan, Turkey, Bangladesh “As I reflect on my journey from participant to planning team member, I'm reminded of the profound impact that collective efforts can have on shaping a more compassionate and conscious world. The Spirit of Humanity conference embodies the spirit of unity, love, and courage that I believe can shift the awareness and consciousness of humanity. I am honored to be part of this movement.” Read More Alan Gegenschatz Creative & Proactive Entrepreneur, Business Partner REF Global “Life is a canvas of endless learning and service, where the journey of self-discovery paints the path to flourishing.” Read More Dr Thomas Bruhn Research Group Leader, Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) Potsdam “Leadership can be a natural consequence of being in resonance with life. In the presence of worldly challenges, conflicts and suffering, it may require courage, however, to stay centered in our compassion with ourselves and our surrounding to wholeheartedly say "yes" to the miracle of aliveness with all its ambiguity.” Read More Hyppolite Ntigurirwa Artist, Peacebuilder & Founder, Be the Peace “Peace Is What You Give not What You Ask Others to Give You.” Read More Stewart Wallis Chair, Wellbeing Economy Alliance (WEAll) “Transformational leadership is urgently needed to address the polycrises in our world. This leadership has to be based on love and humility. Calling for radically different solutions will get nowhere unless we ourselves act radically differently and model the change that is needed. The Forum is the perfect place to do the deep inner work needed to enable us to be truly transformational leaders.” Read More Youssef Mahmoud Senior Adviser at the International Peace Institute in New York “In times of radical uncertainty we need to actively cultivate compassion, hope and agency.” Read More Stefanía Olafsdóttir Meditation Teacher & Chair of the Board, Spirit of Humanity Forum “Each of us holds the potential to be instrumental for a positive shift. ” Read More Luke Addison Peace Advocate, Youth Leadership Facilitator, and Educator “I have been working with the Spirit of Humanity Forum for several months with the aim to bring more young leaders to the Forum and into the overall governance. It has been an incredibly empowering and positive experience as the whole team are so welcoming, open-minded and innovative. I am really looking forward to a bright future working alongside the Forum.” Read More Jóhanna Vilhjálmsdóttir Director of the Spirit of Humanity Forum, best-selling author and experienced media professional “” Read More David Li High School Senior, Kalamazoo Valley Community College “I believe that true leadership is not defined by authority or title but by the ability to inspire and empower others. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or within the community, I strive to lead by example, demonstrating deep listening, empathy, and love.” Read More Lotta Arbman Artist, Meditation teacher, Secretary, Spirit of Humanity Forum “True humility can only emerge from self respect.” Read More Maureen Goodman Programme Director, Brahma Kumaris UK & Representative to the United Nations in Vienna “Love is the greatest transformative power in this world; only love – for the self and others – can move us away from violence and war.” Read More Mark Milton Founder, Education 4 Peace Foundation; Founding partner, Spirit of Humanity Forum “As the world faces rising adversity and division, a new generation of leaders is emerging, guided by love and compassion in governance and leadership.” Read More Arnar Sveinn Geirsson Human Resources Director at Teya Iceland “True leadership begins within. When we align with our values, we don’t need to shout - our presence speaks louder than words. It’s not about having all the answers, but about showing up with integrity, listening deeply, and holding space for others to rise. That’s where real strength lives - in quiet alignment, not loud control.” Read More Olivier Clerc Author, publisher and Founder of Circles of Forgiveness, France “Courage and compassion naturally flow from a healthy heart. Forgiveness is the art of healing the heart.” Read More Katrín Jakobsdóttir Former Prime Minister of Iceland “What the world needs now is leadership where caring for humans and nature is primary, with a clear vision that caring is not only possible, but vital when circumstances are harsh.” Read More Sandrine Dixson-Declève Global Ambassador for The Club of Rome and Executive Chair of Earth4All “Science and stories are needed to help citizens understand potential futures, and to find a way forward for people, planet and prosperity.” Read More Young Leaders This year's Forum saw a vibrant and growing presence of young leaders, bringing fresh perspectives, deep commitment, and a strong sense of purpose to the conversations. As Young Leaders Coordinator, Luke Addison played a key role in guiding and supporting this group, with the steady backing of Mark Milton, co-founder of the Spirit of Humanity Forum. Their work created a welcoming and empowering space for intergenerational exchange and meaningful contribution. Icelandic Leaders For the first time, the Forum also included a larger number of Icelandic leaders, thanks to the inspiring groundwork of Stefanía Ólafsdóttir, who has been coordinating leadership circles in Iceland. These groups developed over the past year, helped cultivate local engagement and brought new Icelandic voices into the international dialogue — bridging global and local efforts toward inner transformation and compassionate leadership. Hear Icelandic Leaders sing! Pre-Event: Gift of Peace The Forum commenced on the evening of May 7th with a serene pre-event entitled "Gift of Peace", co-hosted with the Wellbeing Economy Forum at Safnahúsið (The House of Collections) in Reykjavík. This gathering offered moving personal stories of transformation, highlighting how individuals have turned pain into purpose, setting the tone for the week ahead. Contributors included musician and composer Friðrik Karlsson, peacebuilder Hyppolite Ntigurirwa, Chair of WEALL Stewart Wallis, artist and former Minister of Health Óttarr Proppé, playwright María Reyndal, and Maureen Goodman, spiritual teacher of the Brahma Kumaris UK. The event invited participants to reconnect with themselves and each other, honouring peace as both a global aspiration and a deeply personal experience. Welcome Reception at Reykjavík City Hall On the afternoon of May 8th, participants were warmly received at Reykjavík City Hall by the President of the City Council, Sanna Mörtudóttir. She extended a heartfelt welcome, emphasising the city's commitment to values-driven leadership. To foster connection among attendees, Thomas Bruhn initiated an engaging exercise encouraging participants to interact and build rapport. The reception was further enriched by a beautiful musical performance by Sandrayati, setting a harmonious tone for the days ahead. Opening Session with the President of Iceland Heart to Heart conversations on Inner Wisdom in Governance and Leadership The opening session of the 7th Spirit of Humanity Forum, held in collaboration with the Wellbeing Economy Forum, was a powerful and heart-opening event that brought together international leaders, change-makers, and young voices to explore Inner Wisdom in Leadership and Governance – acting with Courage and Compassion. Dr Dóra Guðrún Guðmundsdóttir, Chair of the Well-Being Forum, and Jóhanna Vilhjálmsdóttir, Director of the Spirit of Humanity Forum, opened the session with a warm welcome, highlighting the significance of the partnership between the two forums. This collaboration marks a shared vision to transform governance and the global economy through values-based leadership, personal transformation, and prioritising the well-being of people and the planet. Then the President of Iceland H. E. Halla Tómasdóttir and global leaders Sandrine Dixson-Declève, Global Ambassador for the Club of Rome and Executive Chair of Earth4All and Dr Jude Currivan, Cosmologist, planetary healer, and co-founder of WholeWorld-View engaged in a heartfelt dialogue exploring the role of inner wisdom and systemic change in creating economies built on well-being and a more compassionate and sustainable world. Also, how a unitive worldview can empower transformational change on a global scale. "The way out is in" The newly elected President called for a shift from head to heart in leadership. She emphasised that true leadership begins within, quoting Thich Nhat Hanh, "The way out is in" and encouraged collaboration rooted in love, courage, and humility. She also urged us to become "knights of love" and embody compassion in public life. Young leaders Silvia Grothe, a young public health consultant, and Hyppolite Ntigurirwa, a young Rwandan peacebuilder and genocide survivor, reflected on the transformative power of inner awareness and shared their hopes for aligned global action. The session included reflection by Sister Jayanti, Co-Adminitrative Head of the Brahma Kumaris, who offered wisdom and led the gathering in a guided meditation. Her calm presence helped centre the group and invite a deeper inward focus. Following the meditation, Luke Addison from PeaceJam and SoH Forum youth co-ordinator led an interactive activity in which participants shared in pairs what moved or inspired them during the session. The session closed with a live conversation between the President and youth representatives, highlighting the need for collective leadership guided by shared values. Circle of Forgiveness Led by Olivier Clerc, author and founder of the Circle of Forgiveness movement, this experiential session became a transformational focal point of the Forum, inviting participants into a sacred space of emotional release, healing, and reconciliation. Olivier was joined by Eileen Barker (mediator and founder of The Forgiveness Project USA), Marquis Bureau (peace educator and facilitator from Canada), and Mark Milton (co-founder of the Spirit of Humanity Forum), who all supported the process with depth and presence. The Circle offered a powerful method for restoring inner peace and re-humanising relationships—with others and ourselves. Participants described the experience as profound and liberating, often bringing unexpected emotions to the surface in a safe and supportive environment. The impact of the session extended well beyond the Forum itself. Many attendees expressed a strong desire to be trained in this method and to introduce Forgiveness Circles in their own countries—underscoring how inner healing can ripple outward as a tool for peace-building and social transformation. Personal time and optional activities Cultivating personal transformation On the afternoon of May 10th, participants were invited to engage in various personal and optional activities designed to deepen presence, connection, and embodiment. Attendees were encouraged to follow what was called to them most. Meditative walk guided by Hulda Sigurlína Þórðardóttir (Meditation teacher and midwife, Iceland), Open space for emergent dialogue hosted by Alan Gegenschatz (Co-founder of Pares Bioenergía and global facilitator in conscious leadership), Powerful breathwork session facilitated by Ellie Todd (Breathwork and somatic healing practitioner, UK). Parallel thematic sessions All exploring the central Forum theme: how inner transformation leads to outer change. Each session was structured around three core pillars—personal experience, collective dialogue, and practical relevance. Highlights included: "Wellbeing and Ecology" with Prof Scherto Gill (Director Global Humanity for Peace Institute), Stewart Wallis (Chair, Wellbeing Economy Alliance), and Isadora Canela (Young changemaker and ecological activist, Brazil), exploring how systems rooted in compassion can support both people and the planet. "Politics of Being" with Dr Thomas Legrand (Author of Politics of Being), Emelina Corrales (Co-founder, Instituto LUMEN), and David Li (Young changemaker and systems innovator), inviting participants to reflect on spiritual intelligence in leadership and governance. "A Sounding Board for a New Spiritual Education Initiative", led by Dr Filippo Dal Fiore (Researcher and Educator), Mark Milton (Founder of Education 4 Peace), and Luke Addison (Youth Peace Ambassador and Educator), opened space for visioning holistic education for the next generation. "Less is More", led by BK Maureen Goodman (Programme Director, Brahma Kumaris UK), Sylvie Berti-Rossi (Heartfulness Facilitator and Editor of Yoga Journal France), and Dr Maruee Shah (Heartfulness Youth Leader), integrated the spiritual practices of the Brahma Kumaris and Heartfulness. Participants explored the heart of inner wisdom through silence, visual journaling, creative writing, and meditation. Plenary Sessions – Voices of Wisdom and Experience The plenary sessions brought together a powerful tapestry of personal stories and experiential wisdom from leaders and changemakers deeply rooted in the Forum's core themes—courage, compassion, inner wisdom, and systemic change. With honesty and humility, speakers shared transformative moments from their own personal journeys, revealing how inner strength and vulnerability have guided their leadership in complex and often uncertain environments. Their reflections reminded us that lasting change - whether in governance, education, or community - emerges not only from bold ideas but from the quiet courage to lead with heart. This collective sharing set a tone of deep listening and mutual respect, anchoring the Forum in the lived realities of those walking the path of inner transformation for outer impact. Powerful contributions came from international leaders, including: • Baroness Patricia Scotland, former Secretary General of the Commonwealth • Katrín Jakobsdóttir, former Prime Minister of Iceland • Sandrine Dixson-Declève, former co-president of the Club of Rome • Dr Youssef Mahmoud, former UN Under-Secretary-General, Senior Advisor, International Peace Institute • Sister Jayanti, Spiritual leader and Co-Administrative Head, Brahma Kumaris • Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir, former Foreign Minister of Iceland and Director of OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights • Hyppolite Ntigurirwa, Peace activist, artist, and founder of Be The Peace • Dr Thomas Legrand, Author of 'Politics of Being' and Advisor on Inner Development & Conscious Food Systems • Professor Mike Hardy, Professor of Intercultural Relations and Founding Director of the Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations at Coventry University • Dr Jude Currivan, Cosmologist, planetary healer, and co-founder of WholeWorld-View Intergenerational Dialogue – Inner Wisdom Across Generations One of the Forum's moving moments was the intergenerational dialogue between Arnar Sveinn Geirsson, Chief People & Culture Officer at Teya Iceland, and Sister Jayanti Kirpalani, spiritual leader and Director of the Brahma Kumaris in Europe and the Middle East. Their conversation offered a profound exploration of inner wisdom, leadership, and the courage it takes to lead with compassion in a complex world. Sister Jayanti's grounded presence and clarity inspired a deep pause as she shared insights on the power of silence, vulnerability, and the importance of nurturing the inner self. Arnar reflected on the experience as a reminder of what modern life often pulls us away from—core human values and a genuine sense of belonging. He said, "This journey inward requires real courage—it's about facing ourselves honestly, embracing vulnerability, and practising self-compassion." Their exchange symbolised bridging generations through shared purpose, reminding us that sustainable leadership begins within and that integrating inner well-being and systemic change is not only possible—it is essential. Closing Session – Imagining What Transformation Truly Means The final session of the Forum invited participants to go beyond – to carry the insights, connections, and inner shifts into the world with renewed courage and clarity. A powerful symbol woven into this closing space was the caterpillar-to-butterfly journey, brought to life through a simple and playful enactment that touched many deeply. It reminded us that transformation often requires surrender, stillness, and trust in what is yet unseen. As shared in participant feedback, this moment allowed people to "truly imagine what transformation means—not just as a concept, but as a lived, often uncomfortable, and ultimately beautiful process." The session closed in silence and shared presence, leaving many with full hearts, open minds, and a quiet commitment to embody what had awakened within. Photo by Yuichi Kageyama on Unsplash Facilitators and Sense Makers – Holding Space for Emergence Throughout the Forum, a dedicated team of facilitators and sense-makers held the space with deep care, presence, and humility. These individuals—among them Professor Scherto Gill (Director of Global Humanity for Peace Institute, University of Wales Trinity St David; Senior Fellow, Guerrand-Hermès Foundation for Peace), Carolin Fraude (Research Fellow, Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies, Germany), Stefanía Ólafsdóttir (Chair of the Board, Spirit of Humanity Forum; Meditation Teacher at Lótushús, Iceland), Luke Addison (Youth Peace Ambassador and Educator, UK), Maureen Goodman (Programme Director, Brahma Kumaris UK), Mark Milton (Founder, Education 4 Peace, Switzerland), Wendy Ellyatt (Founder, Flourish Project, UK), Allan-Charles Chipman (Social Healer and Community Leader, USA), Noor Balfaqeeh (Facilitator and Peacebuilder, Saudi Arabia), and Amit Paul (Systems Thinker and Facilitator, Iceland/Sweden)—helped create a safe and sacred container where silence, deep listening, and dialogue could flourish. As facilitators, they guided participants through the unfolding journey of the Forum, attuned to the collective rhythm and individual needs. As sense makers, they offered real-time insights, thematic reflections, and integrative framing that made visible the emerging patterns and deeper wisdom held within the group. With humility and grace, they embodied the spirit of service—midwifing transformation, both personal and systemic—grounded in the Forum's core pillars of Silence, Listening, and Dialogue. Reflections from Participants "The Spirit of Humanity Forum reminded me that the spirit of humanity is alive – and it begins with how we choose to show up each day." "This gathering was a glimpse into what leadership could be – one rooted in presence, humility, and shared humanity." "The Spirit of Humanity Forum is a rare experience, and was notable to me as a forum not primarily from the head, but from the heart. The intention of those present, their experiences, their work, and their sharing, along with the nascent landscape of Iceland, created a rawness —a space for inner opening. I will be forever grateful for the encounters of these few days." "A nourishing experience, anchored in deep listening and authentic relationships." "Leadership is rarely about anger – it's almost always about fear. This Forum invited us to face that fear with courage and compassion." "I'm leaving Iceland with a full heart and a curious mind. This was not just a conference – it was a glimpse into the future we're all longing for." "I am on a natural "high" after meeting so many inspirational leaders, willing to embrace Courage and Compassion in their leadership." "Feeling deeply grateful to have had the privilege to take part in the Spirit of Humanity Forum. It was a truly moving experience — full of colour, depth, and connection." "This was not just a conference – it was a reminder that true leadership begins within – to dare to listen to one's inner voice, face challenges with compassion, and use one's influence to care for the world." "I am going home with more clarity about where my focus lies and why. May it last, also when the many forms of noise become more present again. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this precious and fruitful time!" Emerging themes • Inner transformation as a foundation for outer change • Unlearning to lead differently – letting go of outdated beliefs and embracing new narratives • Trust-building across difference • Iceland as a potential global lighthouse for values-based leadership and governance Partnerships & Support The 2025 Forum was made possible through the dedication of its key partners: City of Reykjavík / Höfði Peace Centre / Lótshús, Brahma Kumaris Iceland / Education 4 Peace / Heartfulness Institute / Guerrand-Hermès Foundation for Peace / Global Humanity for Peace Institute / Synergos / Well Being Economy Alliance / Well Being Economy Forum We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Mayra Hernández González, Co-Founder and CEO of Instituto Xilonen and Eythor Guðjonsson, Entrepreneur, for their generous spirit and support. Also, Harpa, Sky Lagoon and Teya in Iceland. We also want to give special thanks to our friends and collaborators at Fetzer Institute, Initiative of Change International, Home for Humanity, Flourishing Project, and Wholeworld-view. We are also deeply grateful to those who made financial contributions to enable the participation of young leaders from around the world - your support made a vital difference. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to the programme work, with special gratitude to Stefanía Ólafsdóttir and Carolin Fraude for their dedicated leadership in shaping and guiding the programme. Sincere thanks to all the participants who brought such depth, presence, and openness to the space. We are equally thankful to the dedicated volunteers from Lótushús, Brahma Kumaris Iceland, who offered their time and care throughout the Forum. A special thanks to photographers Peter Fjeldsted (WBEF) and Leon Bijelic who generously shared their photos with us. We are also very grateful for our long time friendship with the star-filmmaker Steingrimur Thordarson and the high-quality material he provides for us, Forum after Forum. And finally, warm thanks to Hótel Örk and its team for holding the physical space with such beauty, warmth, and attentiveness - it made a real difference to the experience of all who gathered. Next Steps – Sustaining the Spirit Participants and organisers are now exploring how to sustain the momentum generated in Iceland and co-create new spaces for inner development in public life—both locally and globally. Many expressed a strong desire to stay connected and deepen the relationships, insights, and initiatives that emerged during the Forum. Ideas already being discussed include: Local and regional gatherings inspired by the Spirit of Humanity Forum's values-based approach to leadership and dialogue. Follow-up circles and online sessions to continue the conversations and practices, including Forgiveness Circles, spiritual intelligence workshops, and youth-led dialogues. Collaborative projects between organisations presented at the Forum, especially regarding education, wellbeing economies, and peacebuilding. Training and resource sharing, enabling participants to bring what they experienced into their communities, institutions, and fields of influence. The Spirit of Humanity Forum remains committed to nurturing this growing community and supporting the next steps through its global network, digital platforms, and future forums. As one participant put it: "We have touched something essential together. Now the question is — how do we live it into being?"
