NUS graduate represents S'pore at Global Peace Summit in Sydney: 'It only takes courage to step up'
Brian Oh Seng Leong
What is peace to you?
Brian Oh Seng Leong, 27, represented Singapore at a Global Peace Summit in Sydney in June - and has returned with valuable insights that he would like to share with fellow Stompers.
The National University of Singapore (NUS) graduate was the only delegate from Singapore - an experience that stuck with him.
Brian penned the following essay, which he shared with Stomp:
"From June 24 to 27 this year, I had the privilege of representing Singapore at the Global Peace Summit (GPS) Sydney 2025, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in the heart of the city.
"Organised by Global Peace Chain, the summit brought together youth leaders, United Nations (UN) representatives, professors and changemakers from around the world - united by one purpose: to explore what peace means in today's divided world.
"My own journey to the summit began with a competitive application process. I submitted a personal essay expressing my commitment to peacebuilding, not just on the global stage, but in everyday life, where true change begins.
"When I received the acceptance email, I felt an immediate sense of responsibility. I wasn't just attending as an individual; I was carrying my country's name with me.
"Over four packed days, we dove into workshops with scholars and diplomats, held open forums on conflict resolution and sustainable development, and heard deeply personal stories from youth leaders who have faced war, inequality, and division firsthand.
"One moment I'll never forget was a panel with UN representatives, who spoke honestly about the fragility of global peace, and the power that youth has to hold the line.
"What struck me most throughout the summit was how essential cross-cultural dialogue is in the work of peacebuilding. I connected with other Southeast Asian delegates from the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and through them, I saw how shared histories and different perspectives can both challenge and enrich our understanding.
"I was humbled to be the only delegate from Singapore, and I carried that sense of pride and responsibility in every conversation I had.
"My biggest takeaway? That peace doesn't just happen through diplomacy or politics. It begins with dialogue, with building bridges before borders. And it starts at home, within communities, families, and friendships. Before we speak about world peace, we must first learn to understand one another where we stand.
"To other young Singaporeans reading this, I want to say: you don't have to wait for permission to care about the world. It only takes courage to step up.
"Whether it's a school project, a volunteer role, or simply asking difficult questions, your voice matters. The world is listening."
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