How do you get scientists from warring nations to sit at the same table and collaborate? Dr. Zafra Lerman, a multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominee and recipient of the US Presidential Award, reveals how she has used science as a diplomatic tool to build bridges in the world's most volatile regions for decades.
In this episode, you will discover:
· The origin story of the Malta Conferences: How a small island became a neutral ground for scientists from Israel, Palestine, Iran, and other conflict zones
· Why she calls science education a "human right" and her innovative method of teaching complex chemistry through dance, music, and theater
· The harrowing reality of organizing these conferences: From raising funds for peace in a world that funds war, to the "Mission Impossible" task of securing visas for all attendees
· The profound lesson from a Soviet dissident who called her his "American Guardian Angel"
· How a simple, student-taken photo became the cover of her memoir, "Human Rights and Peace: A Personal Odyssey"
· Her father's birthday gift that shaped her life's mission: A lesson in dividing resources to help others
For scientists, educators, and anyone who believes in the power of collaboration over conflict.
Connect With Dr. Zafra Lerman:
Book: "Human Rights and Peace: A Personal Odyssey" (www.amazon.com/Human-Rights-Peace-Zafra-Lerman/dp/9815129724)
Personal Website: zafralerman.com
Malta Conferences Foundation: maltaconferencesfoundation.org
YouTube: youtube.com/@lermaninstitute?si=fk10shVrVibux-On
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Dr.Zafra Lerman
01:39 The MOLTA Conferences:Bridging Science and Peace
05:30 Challenges of Collaboration in Conflict Zones
10:46 The Motivation Behind Writing a Book
12:50 Teaching Science Through Art and Dance
15:01 Humanity and Science:A Universal Language
17:04 The Role of Critical Thinking in Human Rights
18:47 Courage in the Face of Danger
21:05 Building Bridges Through Collaborative Science
22:15 Personal Relationships Beyond Politics
25:11 Empowering Women in Science
29:24 Science Education as a Human Right
30:45 Making Science Relevant to Students
33:23 The Importance of Engaging Teaching Methods
37:11 Encouraging the Next Generation
39:54 Innovation in Science Diplomacy
Support the Show:
· Fuel the podcast: iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
· Subscribe and leave a review!
· Share with educators, scientists, and peace advocates
Want to Be a Guest on The Iferia TechCast?
· Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
· PodMatch Host Profile: podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theiferiatechcast