Tony Devine
The Global Peace Leadership Corps (GPCorps) convened its final Global Network Call of 2025 in November, bringing together young leaders from around the world for a powerful session on peacebuilding, leadership, and personal transformation. The session featured Dr. Tony Devine, vice president of education at the Global Peace Foundation (GPF), whose decades of experience in education and leadership development offered participants a compelling vision for navigating a rapidly changing world. While this session took place at the close of 2025, its insights on leadership, personal transformation, and navigating rapid change remain highly relevant for young leaders across contexts and generations.
A World at a Turning Point
Dr. Devine began by situating today’s generation at a critical moment in human history. Just as the Industrial Revolution transformed societies through innovations like electricity, transportation, and mass production, the world is now entering another era of profound change. This transformation is being driven by the convergence of technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, blockchain, solar energy, and genetic mapping.
These advancements are reshaping economies and redefining the future of work. With significant job disruption anticipated in the coming years, particularly among young people, Dr. Devine emphasized the urgent need for individuals to proactively upskill and adapt. However, he stressed that technical skills alone are not enough.
The Foundation of Transformation: The Four Dimensions
At the core of Dr. Devine’s message was the idea that true transformation begins within the individual. He described human beings as possessing four core dimensions: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. While the physical dimension is most visible, it is the integration and development of all four that unlock full human potential.
He highlighted the spiritual dimension as the catalyst for growth in all other areas. This dimension, rooted in character and moral awareness, shapes how individuals relate to others, make decisions, and contribute to society. According to Dr. Devine, character development is not optional but essential. It is the foundation of trust, leadership, and ultimately, peace.
Leadership Begins Within
A key theme throughout the session was the redefinition of leadership. Rather than viewing leadership as a position or title, participants were encouraged to see it as a personal responsibility that begins with self-mastery.
“The hardest person you will ever lead is yourself,” Dr. Devine noted.
He outlined three spheres of leadership: the inner world (self-leadership), the familial world (relationships and family), and the outer world (societal impact). Effective leadership in the outer world is only possible when individuals first cultivate discipline, purpose, and integrity within themselves. This perspective aligns closely with the mission of GPCorps, which seeks to empower young people to become peacebuilders by living for the sake of others and embodying moral and innovative leadership.
Rethinking Education for the Future
The discussion also addressed the limitations of current education systems, which Dr. Devine described as outdated and rooted in an industrial-era model. He advocated for a transformative approach to education that prioritizes character development, creativity, and lifelong learning alongside academic achievement.
Emerging models, such as AI-supported personalized learning combined with collaborative, project-based experiences, were highlighted as indicators of where education is heading. In this context, learners are encouraged to take ownership of their growth, becoming “CEOs of their own education.”
The Role of AI: Tool, Not Crutch
Artificial intelligence was presented as both an opportunity and a challenge. While AI can significantly enhance productivity and learning, Dr. Devine cautioned against over-reliance. Instead, he encouraged participants to engage deeply with AI as a tool for inquiry, creativity, and problem-solving.
Importantly, he reminded participants that human intelligence, particularly emotional and spiritual intelligence, remains superior and indispensable. These human capacities are essential for guiding technology in ways that benefit society.
Investing in Yourself
Drawing on a well-known insight from investor Warren Buffett, the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Dr. Devine emphasized that the most valuable investment one can make is in personal growth. Unlike financial investments, which carry risk, investing in oneself yields continuous and compounding returns.
This investment involves consistent daily effort to build positive habits, develop skills, and strengthen character. Dr. Devine suggested breaking the year into focused periods for growth, encouraging participants to commit to incremental but sustained improvement.
A Call to Purposeful Living
The session concluded with a powerful reminder that each individual holds immense value and potential. Transformation, Dr. Devine affirmed, is not an abstract concept but a daily practice grounded in intentional choices and consistent action. Echoing Ralph Waldo Emerson, he left participants with a lasting reflection: what lies within us is far greater than what lies before or behind us.
As the Global Network Call came to a close, participants were encouraged to carry forward these insights, not only as ideas but as a call to action. In a world of rapid change and uncertainty, the path to peace and progress begins with the transformation of the self.
Learn more about GPF’s Global Peace Leadership Corps Program.
