Kjersti Fløgstad, director of the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo
WHAT
She represents a place where the stories of Nobel Peace Prize laureates are used to inspire dialogue, courage and action. The Nobel Peace Center connects peace education with questions that also matter to children and young people: how to listen across differences, how to stand up for human rights, and how to believe that change is possible.
WHERE
Nobel Peace Center, Oslo, Norway
WHEN
To be interviewed / WEXFO 2026 context
HOW
Through the work of the Nobel Peace Center, peace becomes something children can learn about, discuss and practise. The stories of peace laureates can help young reporters ask better questions about conflict, courage, freedom and responsibility.
What he does / stands for:
● Leads the Nobel Peace Center as a place for peace education and public dialogue.
● Helps make the stories of Nobel Peace Prize laureates accessible to a wider audience.
● Connects peace, human rights and freedom of expression through exhibitions and education.
● Offers children and young people a place to reflect on courage, conflict and change.
Peace is not only something leaders negotiate, but something people learn, practise and protect together.
1. Official profile – Kjersti Fløgstad, Executive Director
Short official biography of Kjersti Fløgstad, including her background at UNICEF Norway, CARE Norway, DNB and her role at the Nobel Peace Center.
5. Nobel laureates launched action plan to support journalism and fight disinformation
Article about Maria Ressa, Dmitry Muratov and the Freedom of Expression Conference at the Nobel Peace Center. Useful for ChildPress because it connects peace, journalism, press freedom and disinformation.
Press release about Kjersti Fløgstad’s appointment as director of the Nobel Peace Center, with background on her experience in children’s rights, sustainability and social leadership.
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Maria Ressa, journalist and Nobel Peace Prize winner
WHAT
She explains why journalism is more important than ever in a world full of lies, disinformation and fear. She speaks about press freedom in the Philippines, the danger journalists face, and the need to protect facts in democracy.
WHEN
World Press Freedom Day, 2024 WEXFO 2026 context
HOW
Her message to young reporters is honest but hopeful: journalism is difficult and sometimes unsafe, but it is also a powerful mission. To protect children’s right to good information, the world must restore the integrity of information and support courageous journalism.
What she does / stands for
● Defends press freedom and independent journalism.
● Warns against disinformation, fear and online manipulation.
● Shows young reporters that facts matter, especially when truth is under pressure.
● Encourages journalists to keep asking questions, even when powerful people do not want them to. “Journalism
1. Nobel Prize official interview — Oslo, 2022
A strong starting point for ChildPress. Maria Ressa explains why journalism and press freedom matter in a world shaped by disinformation. Link: https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/peace/2021/ressa/interview/
2. Transcript of the Nobel interview
Useful for finding short quotes quickly. Link: https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/peace/2021/ressa/1360996-interview-transcript/
3. Nobel Peace Prize Lecture — 10 December 2021
Her central speech on truth, technology, democracy, courage and journalism.
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Tomasz Wnek, youth participation advocate
WHAT
He speaks about the importance of involving young people in decisions that affect their lives. He explains that children and young people should not wait until they are older before their voices are taken seriously.
WHERE Poland / WEXFO WHEN WEXFO 2025
HOW
His message connects youth participation to real influence. It is not enough to ask young people for symbolic opinions; they need opportunities to speak, be heard and shape decisions close to home.
What he does / stands for:
● Advocates for youth participation in decision-making.
● Encourages adults to listen to young people seriously.
● Connects participation with local communities and everyday life.
● Shows that young people need real influence, not only attention.
https://vimeo.com/1090788139
“Real participation starts close to home, by listening to young people and giving them real influence.”
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Jonas Gahr Støre, Prime Minister of Norway
WHAT
Across several ChildPress conversations, he builds a broader story about what children need in order to grow up safely and take part in society.
WHERE
Norway / ChildPress
WHEN
Videos: 2021–2024
HOW
“Children are safest when they are trusted, included, protected and given the chance to become who they can be.”
He begins with trust: every child should have adults nearby who listen before problems become too big. He then connects this to fairness: children need access to kindergarten, school, sports, culture and libraries, regardless of family income. From there, the story moves to protection: society must prevent youth crime and stop gangs from recruiting children. The deeper message is belonging. In the end, his story comes back to school and talent: every child should be challenged, supported and given room to develop.
What he does / stands for:
● Connects child wellbeing with trust, fairness and protection.
● Shows how poverty, safety and education are linked.
● Emphasises belonging as part of national safety.
● Defends the idea that every child should be able to develop their talents.
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Ina Stankovic, student and part-time journalist from Belgrade
WHAT
She connects youth journalism with activism, culture and protest. Her work around the Serbian student movement and protest-inspired art shows how young people use media, magazines and public discussion to make their movement visible.
WHERE
Serbia / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Her work shows that student voices can become a democratic force when they organise, create, question power and tell their own story.
What she does / stands for
● Works as a student and part-time journalist.
● Connects media with activism and culture.
● Documents and reflects on student protest.
● Shows how young people can tell the story of their own movement.
Student voices can become a democratic force when they organise, create and question power.
WEXFO official profile
Ina Stankovic An official overview of her background. This profile describes her as a Scandinavian studies student at the University of Belgrade, part-time journalist, and activist focusing on youth culture and student movements in Serbia. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/ina-stankovic/
Zoomers.rs Author
profile
Author Profile Ina Stanković A collection of the journalistic articles she has written for the Serbian platform Zoomer. Her work here focuses heavily on social themes, activism, and the pressures experienced by the current generation of young people. Link: https://zoomer.rs/author/ina-stankovic/
Article about Ina
Zeleni Kačket Ispod kačketa #13: Život na terasi An informal article and interview introducing her as a Norwegian language student and music lover. It also highlights her role as the driving force behind the FuturesConnectedfilm festival. Link: https://www.zelenikacket.rs/articles/ispod-kacketa/225228/1 3-zivot-na-terasi---ina-stankovic.html
MORE ABOUT INA
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Samuel Rechek, Program Coordinator for the Debate Team at Braver Angels
WHAT
He works on free speech, polarisation and structured disagreement in the United States. His experience with the First Amendment Forum and campus speech debates shows how disagreement can become both a right and a responsibility.
WHERE
United States / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
His work helps create spaces where people can argue honestly, listen seriously and test ideas without turning opponents into enemies.
What he does / stands for
● Coordinates debate work at Braver Angels.
● Works on polarisation and free speech.
● Supports structured disagreement.
● Shows that democracy needs better ways to argue.
Democracy needs spaces where people can argue honestly without turning opponents into enemies.
First amendment forum -
Founder & Chairman
As a student at the University of South Florida, he founded the First Amendment Forum. This student initiative was created to promote open debate, civic engagement, and awareness of constitutional rights of freedom of speech among young people. https://www.usf.edu/
FIRE - Free speech lawsuit
Samuel Rechek gained national attention in the United States as a student when he filed a lawsuit against the University of South Florida (USF), supported by FIRE. The case challenged university policies that improperly subjected student free speech and campus events to applications and restrictions.
Like other young international changemakers, his profile and legal fight for student rights serve as an important practical example within networks focused on youth participation, democracy, and the protection of freedom of speech worldwide. braveangels.org
https://wexfo.no/
MORE ABOUT SAMUEL
FIRE - Free speech lawsuit
Samuel Rechek gained national attention in the United States as a student when he filed a lawsuit against the University of South Florida (USF), supported by FIRE. The case challenged university policies that improperly subjected student free speech and campus events to applications and restrictions. https://www.thefire.org/cases/samuel-rechek-v-univers ity-of-south-florida-board-of-trustees
First amendment forumFounder & Chairman
As a student at the University of South Florida, he founded the First Amendment Forum. This student initiative was created to promote open debate, civic engagement, and awareness of constitutional rights of freedom of speech among young people. https://www.usf.edu/
WEXFO Youth - Civil rights activism
Like other young international changemakers, his profile and legal fight for student rights serve as an important practical example within networks focused on youth participation, democracy, and the protection of freedom of speech worldwide. braveangels.org
https://wexfo.no/
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Zyma Islam, investigative reporter at The Daily Star in Bangladesh
WHAT
She reports on state violence, political disinformation, corruption and human rights abuses. Her work shows the risks journalists face when they investigate power, especially during unrest, internet shutdowns and attacks on the press.
WHERE
Bangladesh / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Journalism remains essential when truth is dangerous.
Her message is that journalism remains essential when truth is dangerous. People need reporters who keep asking questions, even when the newsroom itself is under threat.
What she does / stands for
● Works as an investigative journalist.
● Reports on state violence, corruption and human rights abuses.
● Documents risks to press freedom.
● Shows why journalism matters when power is not transparent.
WEXFO official profile
Zyma Islam An official overview of her profile for the WEXFO conference. It describes her as an investigative reporter at TheDailyStar, the leading English-language newspaper in Bangladesh. Her work focuses on state-perpetrated rights violations, torture, enforced disappearances, and her dangerous firsthand experience covering the 2024 student uprising. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/zyma-islam/
Reuters institute
How to Document Police Violence During an Internet Shutdown A detailed interview exploring how she and her team navigated censorship and a total internet shutdown to document violence during historic political shifts, cross-referencing social media with hospital records. Link: https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/news/how-reporter-mined-social-me dia-and-went-morgues-document-police-violence-bangladesh-recent
Prothom Alo English
The Rough Path of Investigative Journalism and Newsroom Risks A profile piece detailing her career trajectory, the unique risks women face in investigative newsrooms, and her resilience during a terrifying extremist mob attack on her newspaper's headquarters. Link: https://en.prothomalo.com/bangladesh/2sbosm3w02
BJIM Official Profile
Impact-Driven Reporting and Accountability A professional member profile highlighting her academic background at the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism and her commitment to impact-driven reporting that compels state machinery to take action. Link: https://www.bjim.org/all-members/zyma-islam
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Memory Mbewe, child and youth rights advocate and Advocacy Manager at Timveni Child and Youth Media Organization
WHAT
She represents the power of child-led media in Malawi. Her work amplifies the voices of children and young people, especially girls, on issues such as child marriage, teen pregnancy and gender-based violence.
WHERE
Malawi / WEXFO 2026
WHEN
WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Her work shows that children should not only be protected by adults, but heard by them seriously, publicly and with real consequences for law, policy and daily life.
What she does / stands for
● Advocates for child and youth rights.
● Works with child-led media in Malawi.
● Amplifies the voices of girls and young people.
● Raises awareness about child marriage, teen pregnancy and gender-based violence.
Children should not only be protected by adults, but heard by them.
More about Memory Mbewe
WEXFO official profile
WEXFO Official Profile — Child and Youth Rights Advocacy in Malawi An official overview of her profile for the WEXFO conference. It describes her as a child and youth rights advocate, media practitioner, and Advocacy Manager at Timveni Child and Youth Media Organization, where she designs national campaigns to amplify youth voices. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/memory-mbewe/
Oslo Freedom Forum
Ending Child Marriage and Hope for Girls A speaker profile and summary of her powerful advocacy work. It highlights her path as a children’s rights advocate dedicated to ending early and forced marriages in Malawi, working towards the global goal of ending forced marriages by 2030. Link: https://oslofreedomforum.com/talk/ending-child-marriage-a-future-of-hope -for-girls-in-malawi/
Oslo Freedom Forum Video
Personal Journey and Grassroots Activism The complete video presentation where she shares her personal story of growing up in Malawi, her work as a youth presenter at Timveni radio and television, and how she uses media platforms to empower young girls and combat gender-based violence. Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AFNix0BrfM
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Prasad Sandbhor, game designer and researcher
WHAT
He explores how games can help people think, learn and act differently. His work uses digital, tabletop and role-playing games to open conversations about climate action, social safety, health, sustainability and science.
WHERE
India / United Kingdom / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Play can be serious.
His work shows that play can be serious: a well-designed game can help people practise difficult choices, understand other perspectives and talk about problems that ordinary words sometimes cannot reach.
What
he does / stands for
● Designs and researches games for learning and change.
● Uses play to open difficult conversations.
● Connects games with climate action, health and sustainability.
● Shows how role-playing can help people understand other perspectives.
More about Memory Mbewe
WEXFO official profile
Game Design, Climate Action, and Future Visioning An official overview of his profile for the WEXFO conference. It describes him as a game designer and researcher who develops digital, tabletop, and hybrid games for learning, healthcare, sustainability, and climate change action. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/prasad-sandbhor/
University of York Profile
Serious Games and the Playful Learning Group His academic biography detailing his role as the Administrator for the Playful Learning at York (PLaY) Group. It outlines his research on using playful methods, serious game design, and user experience to support education and science outreach. Link: https://www.york.ac.uk/biology/people/prasadsandbhor/
iGGi PhD Profile
Radical Alternate Futurescoping and Climate Club A detailed look at his PhD research exploring how story-based games can facilitate the understanding and "sensemaking" of climate actions among university students. It highlights his tabletop role-playing game ClimateClub. Link: https://www.iggi-phd.org/people/prasad-sandbhor
Play in Nature Official Website
Connecting People and Ecology Through Play The official homepage of the initiative he co-founded, which collaborates with ecologists to craft playful, scientifically grounded tabletop and digital experiences to connect players with nature and urban wildlife. Link: https://www.playinnature.in/
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Tyler Tone, Legislative Analyst at FIRE
WHAT
He works on the future of free speech in relation to AI, social media and technology policy. His work asks how old freedom-of-expression principles should apply to new digital systems that shape what people see, say and share.
WHEN WEXFO 2026
HOW
His message is that technology rules should protect people without giving governments or platforms too much power over public debate.
What he does / stands for
● Works on technology and free expression
● Analyses policy around AI & social media
● Defends free speech in digital environment
● Questions how power over public debate is shaped by platforms & governments
More about Tyler Tone
Legislative Analyst for Technology and Free Expression
Tyler Tone is an American free speech advocate and policy analyst who became involved with national conversations surrounding technology, civil liberties, and freedom of expression through his work at FIRE. In his role as Legislative Analyst for Technology and Free Expression, he contributed to discussions and policy initiatives concerning digital speech, constitutional rights, and the impact of emerging technologies on free expression in the United States.
Student Leadership and Campus Free Speech
As a student at the University of South Florida (USF), Tyler Tone served as president of the USF First Amendment Forum. Under his leadership, the organization worked to strengthen constitutional protections for students, encourage open debate, and promote civil dialogue across political differences on campus. The initiative collaborated with university administrators and student groups to improve free speech protections and campus discourse.
BJIM Official Profile
Youth Engagement and Global Free Expression
Tyler Tone has also been associated with international free expression networks such as WEXFO, which focuses on democracy, youth participation, and freedom of speech worldwide. As part of broader discussions involving young changemakers and civil liberties advocates, his work reflects a growing international movement supporting open dialogue, civic engagement, and the protection of free expression in democratic societies.
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Pema Wangmo Lama, Indigenous climate activist and feminist from Nepal
WHAT
She works where climate, gender and Indigenous rights meet. As founder of WE-WIN and an active voice in international climate and youth processes, she shows how young Indigenous people can help shape global and national decisions.
WHERE
Nepal / WEXFO 2026
WHEN
WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Climate justice is not complete without Indigenous knowledge, women’s leadership and youth influence.
Her message is that climate justice is not complete without Indigenous knowledge, women’s leadership and real youth influence in the institutions that decide the future.
What she does / stands for
● Works on Indigenous climate justice.
● Connects climate action with feminism and Indigenous rights.
● Founded WE-WIN.
● Advocates for youth influence in climate decision-making.
More about Pema Wangmo Lama
WEXFO official profile
Indigenous Climate Activism and Feminist Advocacy An official overview of her profile for the WEXFO conference. It introduces her as a Mugum Indigenous Youth, climate activist, and feminist from Nepal. Her work focuses on the intersection of gender, climate change, and Indigenous rights, including her role as co-drafter of the Gen-Z Peoples Movement Agreement. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/pema-wangmo-lama/
Witness Stand for Climate
Justice
Frontline Testimonies for the International Court of Justice An advocacy profile detailing her participation in the global Witness Stand project. Her testimony highlights how climate change threatens the physical environment, cultural practices, and native languages of grassroots Indigenous communities. Link: https://witnessstand.live/story/pema-wangmo-lama/
Witness Stand video
"We lost our culture. We lost our languages" The complete video testimony delivered for the International Court of Justice climate case. In this short, powerful presentation, she speaks directly about the environmental shifts impacting her community in Nepal and demands systemic climate justice. Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDLXrr4EfbA
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Manal Makkieh, ESG and humanitarian advocate
WHAT
She works at the intersection of sustainability, child protection, refugee support, gender equality and disaster risk reduction. Her work connects big international frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals with the real lives of vulnerable children and communities.
WHERE
Lebanon / international / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Her message is that protection must be practical and meaningful. Children, refugees and crisis-affected people need more than good intentions — they need systems that truly defend their dignity and future.
What she does / stands for
● Works on sustainability and humanitarian protection.
● Supports child protection, refugees and gender equality.
● Connects global goals with real community needs.
● Advocates for systems that protect dignity and future opportunities.
Protection must be practical, meaningful and connected to real lives.
More about Manal Makkieh
WEXFO official profile
WEXFO Official Profile — Social Impact and Creating Content in Conflict Zones An official overview of her profile for the WEXFO conference. It introduces her as an executive leader and advocate experienced in driving sustainable development, mental health initiatives, and conflict resolution globally, including her focus on creating content in conflict zones. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/manal-makkieh/
The Kayani Project
Empowering Refugee Women in Lebanon The official homepage of the grassroots organization she founded and directs. The initiative is a youth-led feminist movement dedicated to creating a supportive environment, promoting civic rights, and turning systemic struggle into strength for Palestinian refugee women in Lebanon. Link: https://kayaniproject.org/
Let’s Talk Peace! Podcast
Life as a Palestinian Refugee and Finding Belonging An in-depth audio interview where she discusses her personal journey growing up in the Mar Elias refugee camp in Beirut. She shares her experiences navigating international bureaucracy as a refugee and details how her background in social work inspired her to launch community-driven advocacy programs. Link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-47-life-as-a-palestinian-refugeein-lebanon/id1587125851?i=1000591581164
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Iliana Papangeli, Managing Director of the investigative newsroom Solomon in Greece
WHAT
She represents a form of journalism that combines courage with care. Her work focuses not only on press freedom and investigative reporting, but also on the well-being, mental health and ethical leadership needed inside newsrooms.
WHERE Greece / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Her message is that journalism cannot defend democracy if it destroys the people who do the work. Strong journalism also needs sustainable and humane newsroom cultures.
What she does / stands for
● Leads an investigative newsroom.
● Connects press freedom with newsroom wellbeing.
● Advocates for ethical leadership and mental health in journalism.
● Shows that care is part of sustainable journalism.
More about Iliana Papangeli
WEXFO official profile
WEXFO Official Profile Investigative Journalism, Press Freedom, and Newsroom Well-being An official overview of her profile for the WEXFO conference. It introduces her as an editor and the Managing Director of Solomon, an award-winning investigative newsroom in Greece. It highlights her role as a female media leader championing progressive, feminist newsroom management and mental health support for journalists. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/iliana-papangeli/
Solomon Official Author
Profile
In-depth Reporting on Migration and Accountability A collection of her investigative work and editorial projects at Solomon. Her reporting focuses heavily on underreported issues including human rights, environmental challenges, and migration, such as systemic labor exploitation and the struggles of unaccompanied minors in Greece. Link: https://wearesolomon.com/en/mag/author/iliana-papangeli-6514/
European Press Prize
Shortlisted Work and Anthropological Background A professional laureate profile detailing her recognition by the European Press Prize committee. It highlights her academic background in psychology and social anthropology, as well as her collaborative cross-border work documenting frontline refugee realities. Link: https://www.europeanpressprize.com/laureate/iliana-papangeli/
Journalismfund Europe
Cross-Border Investigations and Impact Recognition A profile summarizing her involvement in extensive international collaborations. It lists her accolades, including winning the IJ4EU Impact Award, and outlines her contributions to multi-country investigations on pressing European topics like climate equity, irregular migration systems, and labor rights. Link: https://www.journalismfund.eu/journalists/iliana-papangeli
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Hanna Ustynova, Deputy Executive Director of PEN Ukraine
WHAT
She works at the intersection of journalism, culture and war. Through projects such as “People of Culture Taken Away By The War,” she helps keep the stories of writers, artists and cultural voices alive when they can no longer speak for themselves.
WHERE
Ukraine / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Her work shows that freedom of expression during war is also about memory: protecting the truth of people’s lives, their words and their contribution to culture.
What she does / stands for
● Works with PEN Ukraine.
● Protects cultural memory during war.
● Keeps stories of writers and artists alive.
● Connects journalism, culture, freedom of expression and remembrance.
Freedom of expression during war is also about memory.
WEXFO official profile
Communications, Partnerships, and Preserving Cultural Memory An official overview of her profile for the WEXFO conference. It introduces her as a journalist, writer, and the Deputy Executive Director of PEN Ukraine. Her background spans communications, PR for major national cultural projects, and documenting the impact of war on Ukraine's cultural sphere. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/hanna-ustynova/
Ukrainian Culture Makers
Killed by Russia
Project Team and Memorial Initiative A profile detailing her role as the author of the poignant project PeopleofCultureTakenAwayByTheWar. This initiative documents and preserves the legacies of writers, artists, and journalists who have been killed since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Link: https://killedculturemakers.pen.org.ua/en/responsible
PEN International
Rebuilding Knowledge and Literary Solidarities An official release detailing international collaborations she has managed, highlighting her work in coordinating book donations and emergency aid to restock ruined public and school libraries across Ukraine. Link: https://www.pen-international.org/news/ukrainian-libraries-to-receive-2500 0-books
More about Hanna Ustynova
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Caitlin Figueiredo, Goan-Australian gender equality strategist and 2024 ACT Young Australian of the Year
WHAT
She works on youth empowerment, civic engagement and online safety. Her work raises an important question for young people: when does protection online help them, and when does it silence them?
WHERE Australia / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Her message is that meaningful youth participation means listening to what young people actually need, especially when adults make rules about the digital spaces where young people live, learn and speak. What she does / stands for
● Works on gender equality and youth empowerment.
● Connects civic engagement with online safety.
● Asks how young people can be protected online without being silenced.
● Encourages adults to include youth perspectives in digital policy.
Online protection should not silence the young people it is meant to protect.
More about Caitlin Figueiredo
WEXFO official profile
Communications, Partnerships, and Preserving Cultural Memory An official overview of her profile for the WEXFO conference. It introduces her as a journalist, writer, and the Deputy Executive Director of PEN Ukraine. Her background spans communications, PR for major national cultural projects, and documenting the impact of war on Ukraine's cultural sphere. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/hanna-ustynova/
Ukrainian Culture Makers
Killed by Russia
Project Team and Memorial Initiative A profile detailing her role as the author of the poignant project PeopleofCultureTakenAwayByTheWar. This initiative documents and preserves the legacies of writers, artists, and journalists who have been killed since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Link: https://killedculturemakers.pen.org.ua/en/responsible
PEN International
Rebuilding Knowledge and Literary Solidarities An official release detailing international collaborations she has managed, highlighting her work in coordinating book donations and emergency aid to restock ruined public and school libraries across Ukraine. Link: https://www.pen-international.org/news/ukrainian-libraries-to-receive-2500 0-books
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
PRESS UNDER ATTACK
WHO
Abdallah Abed Alhaleem, architect and urban designer from Jordan
WHAT
He shows how public space can become a platform for freedom of expression. Through projects such as Living Mosaics, he turns unused urban spaces into places where young people can meet, perform, speak and take part in community life.
WHERE
Jordan / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
His work connects youth participation with physical spaces. Participation is not only about giving young people a microphone, but also about creating real places where their voices can be seen, heard and shared.
What he does / stands for
● Designs urban spaces that support participation.
● Uses public space as a platform for expression.
● Helps young people meet, perform and speak in their communities.
● Connects architecture with democracy and youth voice.
Young people need real spaces where their voices can be seen, heard and shared.
Abdallah Abed Alhaleem
WEXFO official profile
WEXFO Official Profile — Urban Design, Public Spaces, and Freedom of Expression An official overview of his profile for the WEXFO conference. It introduces him as an architect and urban designer who operates at the intersection of public space, freedom of expression, and civic engagement. Through his practice, he specializes in turning underutilized urban areas into open forums for community dialogue. Link: https://wexfo.no/artists/page/3/
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Carolina Largo, Goan-Australian gender equality strategist and 2024 ACT Young Australian of the Year
WHAT
She works with communities, women entrepreneurs, farmers and local organisations to strengthen sustainability and collective voice. Her work connects peacebuilding with the question of who is included when decisions are made.
WHERE
Colombia / WEXFO 2026
WHEN WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
Her work shows that communities should not be treated as a checkbox in development work, but as people with knowledge, experience and the right to shape their own future.
What she does / stands for
● Works with rural communities and local organisations.
● Supports women entrepreneurs and farmers.
● Connects sustainability with collective voice.
● Encourages adults to include youth perspectives in digital policy.
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
Language teacher:
WORD
The right to know
WHO
Louis Theroux, Documentary maker
WHAT
Throughout his career, Louis Theroux has travelled across the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel/Palestine, and other regions to document communities and individuals often ignored or misunderstood by mainstream media. His documentaries include investigations into extremist movements, prison systems, online radicalization, cult-like religious groups, autism, addiction, and political violence. His interview style is known for being calm, observational, and non-confrontational, allowing subjects to reveal their own beliefs and contradictions.
WHERE
Britain / WEXFO 2026
WHEN
WEXFO 2026, 1–3 June
HOW
ouis Theroux is widely recognized for promoting open inquiry, human curiosity, empathy, and long-form journalism. Rather than aggressively debating interview subjects, he is known for listening carefully and asking deceptively simple questions that encourage people to speak openly. His work often explores the complexity of human behavior, including extremism, prejudice, masculinity, power, trauma, and social division.
What she does / stands for
● he has consistently defended the importance of free expression
● understanding difficult or controversial viewpoints without endorsing them.
In school, there are many teachers who would really like to watch the video you made of a great person and the word you learned about most.
Wow! A reality check on children all over the world who share their stories!
Much more interesting than learning from our book!
SCHOOL
History teacher
Wow, how deeply moving that children, as reporters, find their own trustworthy sources and discover how important freedom of speech is as a crucial part of the development of history in their own hometown, in the perspective of other children in other parts of the world.
Geography teacher
Exciting to count the different numbers listed in the UN Children’s Rights and how many children — and adults — have been reached till now!
Math teacher
So many new words are found by children doing interviews and reflecting on a new important word. Getting the real meaning of that word in their real life!
