Illustration of two smiling faces, a globe with a dove holding an olive branch, and the text "Global Friends for Peace" with a red heart replacing the letter 'O' in "for".

A peace‑centered collaborative project, founded in 2020 — creating educational tools that help build a culture of peace where every child feels included, seen, and valued.

Through stories, visuals, and gentle learning moments, we nurture empathy, connection, and everyday peace.

Our Creators

Dr. Stacy Estrada-Smith, Ph.D. is an educator, peace scholar, and leadership mentor whose work centers on helping young people and adults discover their voice, identity, and purpose. With a Ph.D. in Peace and Conflict Studies and Leadership

Dr. Stacy Estrada-Smith is an educator, author, leadership strategist, and peace practitioner who has worked with first‑generation students and communities around the world. She is dedicated to helping young people understand their voice, their identity, and their power to build peace wherever they are.

Dr. Stacy Estrada-Smith

Youngwon Kang is an illustrator whose warm, expressive artwork is rooted in hope, tenderness, and human connection. Her illustrations draw inspiration from real-life moments and the belief that children deserve stories that feel safe

Youngwon Kang is a thoughtful visual artist, illustrator, and peace educator who brings global stories to life through gentle color, movement, and emotion. Her work reflects a deep belief that children learn best when they feel seen and understood.

Youngwon Kang M.A.

Recent Publication

Book cover titled "Shine From Within" inspired by true events, written by Dr. Stacy Estrada Smith and illustrated by Youngwon Kang. The cover features a smiling girl with brown hair, glasses, and hands clasped in front of her chest against a vibrant rainbow sparkly background.

Shine from Within is a gentle story about courage, kindness, and the quiet power of being seen.

When a hard moment makes everything feel heavy, a caring reminder and a safe relationship help a child remember what has been true all along.

There is light inside them, and it can guide them back to themselves.

Perfect for reading at home, in classrooms, and in counseling spaces, Shine from Within supports children as they learn to name their feelings, calm their bodies, and choose peace.

Themes in this story:
• Emotional resilience
• Self worth and identity
• Supportive family relationships
• Kindness and empathy
• Courage through hard moments
• Peace building and healing
• Hope and inner strength

Group of diverse children and a dog smiling together, with the logo 'Global Friends for Peace' in the bottom right corner.
Group of diverse children and a dog smiling together, with the logo 'Global Friends for Peace' in the bottom right corner.