The Final Stage of the International Contest “Leader of Public Diplomacy” Has Begun

The final stage of the International Contest “Leader of Public Diplomacy” has begun as part of the Second World Public Assembly in Moscow. On September 16, 2026, the participants’ first organizational meeting - a training session - was held. It was devoted to team building and getting to know one another.

The meeting gathered representatives from all corners of the world - people with different cultural backgrounds, professional interests and personal stories. Each participant brought something of their own to the exchange: a unique idea, experience, initiative and a cause to which they sincerely seek to dedicate themselves.

The first meeting provided an opportunity not merely to get acquainted, but also to see behind every name a real person with their own story, values and aspirations. This marked the beginning of the formation of the finalists’ team.

The main objective of the training was to create an atmosphere of open communication and trust. Through special team-building exercises, participants were able to get to know one another better, identify their strengths and find common ground. The format of the meeting made it possible to move beyond formal introductions: participants actively engaged in the tasks, supported one another and gradually opened up to communication.

One of the tasks involved introducing one another: instead of speaking about themselves, each participant had the opportunity to hear about themselves from another Leader of Public Diplomacy.

The introductions developed into a genuine intercultural dialogue. International guests were able not only to learn more about one another, but also to become acquainted with the distinctive features of Russian culture.

By the end of the meeting, the participants had reached a common understanding: they certainly have something that unites them. Each of them, in their own way, seeks to help people under the banner of peace and love for it.

The evening river cruise became a continuation of the first day. During the excursion, the participants in the “Leader of Public Diplomacy” Contest continued getting to know one another in an informal setting. Having formed groups based on common interests, they told each other about themselves, their countries and their initiatives.

The first day of the final stage became not only the organizational start of the Contest, but also the first step towards creating an international community of like-minded people. Participants had the opportunity to see how different the paths towards one common goal can be and, at the same time, how much people living in different parts of the world can have in common.

Additional information is available on the official website of the World Peoples Assembly and at media@world-assembly.org.