Peace Builders
A Documentary In-Production
2022-2025
Palestinian and Israeli teenagers from the Middle East
forge relationships in the midst of the most devastating violence
the region has experienced since 1948.
Introducing the Peace Builders
In 2022/2023, they shared their visions for the future.
The Teenagers
These individuals were selected by their openness to find solutions and willingness to appear on camera.
We hope we can learn from their stories.
In 2024, we will capture the realities of life in Palestine/Israel and their efforts to chart a path forward amidst the war.
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Nama (left) and Shahd (right)
Thekra
"Since I was a kid [my mom] holds my hand, sits me down, and tells me 'You are strong. You have your own opinion, don't let anybody step on that."
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Following the Journey
The documentary project spans the course of 4 years from 2022-2025, as we witness these teenagers grow up, form bonds with each other, strengthen their resolve for peace, and confront the uncertain realities of their future.
"I'm torn between not wanting to leave home, and a home that is toxic and violent."
Tidhar
"We're gonna miss The States but now is the important part, the part when you move what you learned here to your home. To your community."
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The documentary follows only the words expressed and actions taken by these teenagers.
We understand these personal accounts do not make up the entirety of experiences of those suffering in the region.
Our Approach
"I feel like I really need to do something about this because I was born to stand for what's right and take action, and I don't want to be a bystander to what's happening."
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Coming Together
We begin the film in Navasota, Texas in 2022 which is where these teenagers first meet as part of an annual peace-building institute. 2023, they return to deepen their commitment for peace .
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The film continues production in Nov 2024 in Palestine/Israel to have an up-close look of their peace efforts in a post-October 7 reality.
Nama
Shahd
"You grow up feeling that there is this very big battle between one another and there is very distinct stuff that they blame each other for."
Elon
Jerusalem Peacebuilders
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Jerusalem Peacebuilders (JPB) is an interfaith, non-profit organization with a mission to create a better future for humanity across religions, cultures, and nationalities. Integral to that mission is the belief that the future of Jerusalem is the future of the world. To that end, JPB promotes transformational, person-to-person encounters among the peoples of Jerusalem, Israel, Palestine, and the United States.
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This film was not commissioned
nor has any financial affiliation with
The Jerusalem Peacebuilders institute.
The Organization in Focus
Support our Film
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Help us complete the production
of this documentary in 2024-2025.
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Your contribution supports:
• Production Equipment
• Production Assistant
• Plane flight Palestine/Israel
• Lodging in Palestine/Israel
• Travel inside Palestine/Israel
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Your tax-deductible donation helps tell
the stories of these young people
finding solutions amidst the ongoing conflict.
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Supporters: Krista Calaway, Matt Heath, Chris King, Lavanya Rajagopalan, Kenneth Richstad, Barbara Richstad
