What if the parts of our identity that feel most painful could become catalysts for innovation, leadership, and peace?

The Peace Action Network, in collaboration with the Women Business Network, recently hosted Beyond the Headlines — The Weight of (European) History and the Courage to Transform It into Action featuring Dr. Daphne Hering in conversation with Dr. Kerstin Humberg.

Together, they explored how identity, migration, family history, entrepreneurship, and lived experience can shape economic transformation and help build a more resilient and peaceful future for Europe.

Key takeaways:
• Diversity, specifically migration, creates innovation: Dr. Hering’s research found that migrants — and non-migrant communities exposed to migrants — identify significantly more new business opportunities as exposure to different contexts creates new thinking and innovation.
• Identity conflict can become a catalyst for growth: Personal and historical tensions, when consciously explored and integrated, can become sources of insight, transformation, responsibility, and meaningful contribution.
• Fear and polarization narrow societies; connection expands them and restores dignity: Economic insecurity and polarization often increase rigidity and division, while dialogue and human connection create openness, opportunity, and room for collaboration.
• Migration strengthens prosperity: Migration is not a social issue; it can drive innovation, entrepreneurship, economic resilience, and long-term stability.
• Small actions matter: Dr. Hering’s call to action was simple yet powerful — open one door for one migrant in your lifetime through mentorship, investing in their business, opening your network, a job opportunity, or other relevant support.

The conversation reflected the Peace Action Network mission in bringing leaders together to foster dialogue, understanding, and pathways toward a more peaceful, connected world.

🎥 Watch Dr. Hering’s TEDx Talk on Migration:
>>> Meinen TEDxTalk zu Migration anschauen / Watch my TEDxTalk on Migration Meinen Newsletter abonnieren / Subscribe to my newsletter