Wednesday, September 20
6-7:30pm EST
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/3EqlLCK
What are global warning signs related to water access? How do water issues relate to conflicts between regions and countries as well as climate change across the planet? In this program, experts will speak to examples of current challenges related to water stress and access and ideas for enabling equitable access to water.
Panelists:
Michael Collins, Executive Director, The Americas, Institute for Economics and Peace – Responsible for expanding IEP’s presence and impact in the Americas and the adoption of IEP’s Positive Peace Framework as an evidence-based tool for effective peace-centered development. Prior to joining IEP, Michael helped develop and oversee educational and job creation programs in emerging nations, working frequently in communities affected by natural disasters, poverty, and gang violence.
Omar El Hattab, PhD, Senior Advisor | Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Emergency Programme Division, UNICEF – With nearly 30 years of experience in the WASH Sector, Omar is currently holding the position of Senior Advisor, WASH in Emergency with UNICEF Programme Division, New York and heading the WASH in Emergency and Fragile Contexts Unit within the WASH Section. He’s responsible for overseeing and coordinating UNICEF’s emergency preparedness and responses across the world among others covering a broad myriad of emergencies including conflict, natural disasters and public health emergencies.
Christine Serwan, Special Projects Senior Associate, Charity Water – Christine Serwan is a Special Projects Senior Associate at charity: water, working on their remote sensors and donor travel programs. She is based in the Philadelphia area and has an extensive background in community and international development, with a Masters of Public Administration from Rutgers University. She began her career in international development while living in Malawi after graduating from Gettysburg College, serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer and staff member.
“Water management should be everyone’s concern. We need to educate people at all levels because it is not just about technical know-how but also about changing mentalities. This change in attitudes towards water must occur at all levels and should start from the earliest age.” – Abou Amani, Director, Division of Water Sciences and Secretary, Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP) of UNESCO
This program is a partnership between Peace Day Philly and the UN Association of Greater Philadelphia.