Welcome to the first episode of 'Making a Difference' podcast with your host, Kirsty Gilchrist. 

At the entrance of Tent of Nations are the words "We refuse to be enemies". This is a Palestinian farm surrounded by 5 growing Israeli settlements with up to 70,000 inhabitants. How do you stick to your vision when the walls are closing in, you cannot have access to water or electricity and the very essence of your existence - your land, is under constant threat of removal. 

In this episode, I speak with Daoud Nassar - a Christian Palestinian who, with is family over the last 100 years, has been transforming his land into the "Tent of Nations", a hub for peace and environmental innovation within a complex and dangerous political landscape. Things aren't easy and the future isn't certain.

Key Points:

1. **Guest Introduction:** Daoud Nassar, discusses the building of Tent of Nations under challenging conditions in Palestine, demonstrating non-violent resistance as key to change amidst conflict situations.

2. **Historical Background:** The farm has been in Daoud's family for over 100 years and despite constant threats of confiscation by Israeli authorities since 1991; they continue their legal battle to retain ownership.

3. **Strategy & Leadership**: Having a clear vision is crucial even if it seems far-fetched at times along with flexibility towards achieving long-term goals. This while communicating your strategy effectively can be challenging especially when surrounded by reactionary forces rather than proactive ones due difficult politics. In this scenario, leading by example becomes essential – demonstrating success encourages others join you on this journey.

3. **Connection to Land:** For Daoud's family, it isn't just about protecting physical land but preserving heritage that reflects spiritual ties more than mere possession.

4. **Struggles & Triumphs**: From losing 25k trees in 1936 leading them to rebuild stronger than ever before or dealing with attacks from settlers since '91 - the journey hasn't been easy but they've continued fighting for their land.

5. **Transforming Adversity into Hope:** Despite numerous obstacles including ongoing political conflicts that seem impossible to resolve, the battleground is being transformed into a place of healing attracting thousands of visitors annually seeking inspiration.

6. **Collaborations & Impact**: Thousands visit yearly from across globe joining local Palestinians collaborating and making Tent of Nations an increasingly recognised beacon of hope and resilience against adversity.

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To follow Daoud's story and the Tent of Nations, please visit https://tentofnations.com.  

Join the discussion - what did you think? What key points came up for you in this? 

If you'd like to explore how to make a difference through your strategy visit my website https://www.soloco.co.uk where I can help you find ways to think and do. Get in touch. 

About Kirsty Gilchrist is a strategy specialist and coach, and owner of Soloco. I bring strategy to life through thinking and doing and helping leaders and their teams to make a difference.

Instagram:

@Making_The_Difference_podcast

@kirstybgil

email:

makingthedifference@soloco.co.uk

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