A musical tribute to The Beatles and an exclusive vinyl mark an evening of reflection on Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon’s vision for peace.
In a night filled with symbolism and hope, the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Paraguay celebrated 15 years of relentless work alongside affiliated organizations such as the Patria Soñada Institute, the Latin American Presidential Mission, and the Chaco Vivo Green project, with a Beatles Tribute Gala. Thoughtfully planned to honor its journey and its founder, Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon, the event was a milestone for the region, highlighted by the presentation of a limited-edition Give Peace a Chance vinyl, generously donated by John Lennon’s son, Sean Ono Lennon, and his mother, Yoko Ono.
Numbered 18 out of 50, this rare vinyl resides in Asunción, Paraguay, representing the Global Peace Foundation’s ongoing commitment to fostering love and unity worldwide.
This vinyl, produced at the iconic Abbey Road Studios and one of only 50 copies worldwide, is more than a valuable collector’s item; it symbolizes the global impact of the Global Peace Foundation’s mission. The Global Peace Foundation received the vinyl as a tribute to its vision of building a more just and unified world—a vision that began in the United States and chose Paraguay as the home for its first global chapter, founded in 2009 by Dr. Moon. Over the past 15 years, this mission has expanded, with chapters established in over 20 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and North America, solidifying GPF as a global movement for peace and collaboration.
The Give Peace a Chance vinyl symbolizes GPF’s commitment to peace and serves as a reminder of the foundation’s broader initiatives. Beyond celebrating its 15-year legacy in Paraguay, GPF continues to mobilize global support for its key projects. Among these is the One Dream One Korea campaign, which aims to engage 10 million advocates by 2025 to support the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. Discover more about this initiative and become part of the international movement for One Korea.
Inspiring Words from Peacebuilders
The evening, hosted by Master of Ceremonies Mario Ferreiro, former Mayor of Asunción, opened with a video showcasing GPF Paraguay’s milestones over the past 15 years. Dr. Alda Cardozo, National Director of GPF Paraguay, delivered welcoming remarks, emphasizing how the organization’s core values of unity and service have underpinned every project and initiative.
Ms. Alda Cardozo is currently the Director of Global Peace Foundation Paraguay. She has also led human rights organizations advocating for disadvantaged individuals and has served as an instructor at the Ministry of Justice’s Penitentiary Center.
“This vinyl and tonight’s gala are more than symbols; they remind us of the impact we can achieve when we work together for peace. Our mission is far from over as we celebrate 15 years of accomplishments. We remain inspired by Dr. Moon’s vision and steadfast in our commitment to a future of unity and hope,” she stated.
Kiantar Betancourt, CEO of Atenil Paraguay and leader of the Chaco Vivo Project, and Dr. José Altamirano, Director of the Patria Soñada Institute, reflected on the importance of teamwork and civic responsibility in building a more equitable society. Olinda Salguero, Vice President of the Latin American Presidential Mission and GPF’s representative in Central America, highlighted the value of learning from the experiences of former presidents within the Presidential Mission, whose insights serve as crucial lessons for fostering stronger regional integration, peace, and collaboration.
Finally, Mr. Thomas Field, GPF’s Regional Representative for Latin America, lauded Dr. Moon’s global vision and Paraguay’s exemplary role in leading the foundation’s international mission, setting a standard for other chapters worldwide.
Honoring Leaders in Peacebuilding
From left to right: Dr. José Altamirano, Olinda Salguero, H.E Luis Alberto Lacalle, H.E Vinicio Cerezo, H.E Juan Carlos Wasmosy, Dr. Alda Cardozo and Mr. Thomas Field.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of leaders whose professional and personal contributions have advanced peace in Latin America. The Lifetime Achievement Awards honored the three founding members of the Latin American Presidential Mission: H.E Juan Carlos Wasmosy (former President of Paraguay), H.E Luis Alberto Lacalle Herrera (former President of Uruguay), and H.E Vinicio Cerezo (former President of Guatemala), for their enduring efforts to promote peace and development in the region. All three played pivotal roles in the democratization processes in their countries. They each helped lead their nations through transitions from military rule to democratic governance, contributing to consolidating democratic institutions and practices.
Additionally, Dr. José Altamirano was celebrated for his dedication to cultural reconciliation and understanding in Paraguay.
Learn more about the work of the Latin American Presidential Mission: The Economic and Ecological Future between the United States, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific.
Music as a Universal Language of Peace
Asunción City Symphony Orchestra performs a tribute to The Beatles.
The musical tribute was the centerpiece of the gala. The Asunción City Symphony Orchestra (OSCA), under the direction of maestros Luis Szarán and Gustavo Gómez Nardo, delivered an unforgettable performance. Various soloists captivated the audience with renditions of timeless classics like Imagine, Let It Be, and All You Need Is Love. Every note resonated with the spirit of unity and hope embodied by The Beatles and the Global Peace Foundation.
This celebration honored the legacy of GPF while also sending a powerful message to the world: peace is not a distant ideal but an attainable goal when communities, governments, and organizations work together as One Family Under God.
