Global Lessons from the Middle East:Tech, Dialogue, Shared Interest | Tomer Cohen | TEDxHartlandHill

TL;DR

Personal stories of bridging divides in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through tech dialogue and entrepreneurship.

Transcript

Transcriber: JP Neto Reviewer: Walaa Mohammed When you think of change makers. What comes to your mind? Maybe selfless leaders who sacrifice their interests for the greater good. And what if I told you that the real power comes from blending social impact? With personal gain. My story begins in the 90s. I was raised in Jerusalem in a warm, caring I... Read More

Key Insights

• 💠 Personal experiences shape perspectives on conflicts.
• 🛝 Technology can serve as a common ground for reconciliation.
• 🚨 Peacebuilding requires merging personal aspirations with societal betterment.
• 🥺 Building bridges through shared interests can lead to lasting change.
• ✌️ Innovative approaches empower individuals to contribute to peace.
• 🎚️ Grassroots initiatives can create meaningful impact on a societal level.
• 🍉 Maintaining relationships during conflicts is crucial for long-term reconciliation.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the narrator's upbringing influence their perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

The narrator grew up in Jerusalem during the violent Second Intifada, experiencing fear and suspicion towards Palestinians due to ongoing conflict, contributing to their initial views.

Q: What inspired the narrator to found Tech for Peace?

Exposure to social injustice and a desire for a better future led the narrator to establish Tech for Peace, connecting Palestinian and Israeli youth through technology, dialogue, and entrepreneurship.

Q: What challenges did the narrator face in promoting reconciliation between Palestinians and Israelis?

Challenges included attracting new participants beyond those already inclined towards peace initiatives and maintaining relationships during conflict escalations, highlighting the complexity of fostering lasting connections.

Q: How does Tech for Peace address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

Tech for Peace brings together Palestinian and Israeli youth through tech training, dialogue, and entrepreneurship, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation to create a better future together.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Raised in Jerusalem during violent conflict, the narrator felt fear and suspicion towards Palestinians.

• Through social media exposure and peace seminars, the narrator found a passion for social change.

• Founded Tech for Peace, connecting Palestinian and Israeli youth through tech training, dialogue, and entrepreneurship.