<div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><b>Lion Saba Islam</b></div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">Have you ever heard of Social Emotional Learning? Lions Clubs International has been championing this concept for over three decades, an unbelievable feat that highlights the commitment to nurturing young minds. Through their unique program, the International Peace Poster Contest, Lions Clubs International aims to cultivate peace and emotional intelligence in children aged 11-13 from around the world. With a new theme each year, this contest encourages independent thinking and provides valuable guidance during a crucial stage of personal development.</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Seeding Peace in Young Minds:</div><div dir="ltr">Established in 1988, the International Peace Poster Contest has become a symbol of Lions Clubs International's dedication to peace-building. Annually, around 350,000 children from over 65 countries participate in this contest, showcasing their artistic talents and expressing their thoughts on peace. This age range is significant as it marks the beginning of independent thinking and the formation of new habits. By instilling values of peace and empathy during this formative period, Lions Clubs International aims to shape compassionate leaders of the future.</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Recognizing Creative Excellence:</div><div dir="ltr">The global winner of the International Peace Poster Contest receives a grand prize of US$5,000 and an opportunity to visit New York. Additionally, there are three consolation prizes of US$500 each. This recognition not only celebrates the artistic achievements of the participants but also reinforces the importance of promoting peace and compassion in our society.</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">District 322B1's Enthusiasm for Peace:</div><div dir="ltr">Lions Clubs International District 322B1, based in Kolkata, organizes the Peace Poster competition every year with tremendous enthusiasm. This year, the theme was "Lead with Compassion," inspiring over 2,000 students to participate. As part of the program, a Social Emotional Learning activity on compassion was conducted, followed by the poster competition. The best posters from various schools were displayed in an art exhibition at Shree Siddhivinayak Devastham, attracting a diverse audience of parents, teachers, artisans, and children. Among the impressive artwork, the finest poster was selected to compete at multiple levels.</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Fostering Future Leaders:</div><div dir="ltr">Through initiatives like the International Peace Poster Contest, Lions Club International is shaping a generation of leaders who blend courage with compassion. As the world continues to witness the rise of artificial intelligence, the need for emotional intelligence becomes even more critical. By promoting social emotional learning and emphasizing values such as empathy, kindness, and understanding, Lions Clubs International is nurturing future leaders who possess the qualities needed to create a harmonious world.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">Lions Clubs International's commitment to social emotional learning through the International Peace Poster Contest is truly commendable. By engaging children worldwide in artistic expression and promoting peace, Lions Clubs International is sowing the seeds of compassion and empathy in young minds. Through their support and guidance, these children have the potential to become the compassionate leaders our world desperately needs. As we navigate a rapidly evolving society, let us join hands with Lions Clubs International in fostering social emotional learning and creating a brighter future for generations to come.</div></div>