Today marks a very special moment in the Mark Twain International School community. Today, on the 20th of September 2024, students from the PYP, MYP and DP, teachers and staff members all gathered in the Senior Campus courtyard for yet another celebration of the International Day of Peace.

This day was dedicated to the values that unite us all: harmony, compassion, and understanding. At Mark Twain, peace is more than just a word — it’s a way of life. Every day, our students embrace kindness, empathy, and collaboration to build a brighter, more peaceful world. For we believe that small actions — a kind word, a helping hand, or standing up for what’s right — can spark change that spreads far beyond our school.

Throughout history, courageous individuals have dared to dream of peace, and our students proudly carry that legacy forward. Peace begins with understanding — understanding each other, our differences, and the truth that we are all part of one global family.

Our strong and open-minded students dedicated their time and energy to honoring this day, to commemorating its worldwide significance as well as its positive impact it has had on our global society since its inception in 1981. Their intention today was promoting healthy and noble human values, challenging us all to understand that the first step towards achieving world peace starts with inner tranquility. That we should first and foremost understand and appreciate who we are in order to attain a sense of harmony and calm inside of ourselves. Only then could we spread the same energy onto the outside world, within our community and beyond. 

Upon forming a giant human peace sign right in the middle of the football field, and then hearing two inspiring, deep and wonderful speeches written by two of our incredible students, everybody who was part of the event sang “We Are the World” by Michael Jackson, in hopes that all their voices would create a stronger link between each individual, and make us understand that no matter the burden we are carrying, we are all part of the same world and should always stay together.

As we celebrate the International Day of Peace, let’s remember: peace starts with each of us. Together, we can create a ripple of love and understanding that touches the world.

Mark Twain International School – inspiring peace, one student at a time.

Florin Ionescu 

Advancement Officer

Mark Twain International School