Honorary Guests
Queen Sonja of Norway
has been the Queen of Norway for over 34 years. She is known for her dedication to art, culture, and royal duties. She has championed social causes, including refugee welfare and equality, promoted outdoor life, such as hiking, and established key initiatives, such as the Queen Sonja International Music Competition and Queen Sonja's School Award. As Queen, she undertakes extensive state visits, hosts foreign dignitaries, attends cultural events, and participates in numerous public functions, representing the monarchy.
Siri Hatlen
is the president of the Norwegian Red Cross. With a background in engineering and business, Siri has led major institutions, including Statkraft and Oslo University Hospital. She has chaired boards such as Entra ASA and NMBU, and played a key role in organizing the Lillehammer 2016 Youth Olympics. In addition, she serves on boards of prestigious organizations, including the Nobel Peace Center anf DNT.
Jostein Kobbeltvedt
is the Executive Director of the Rafto Foundation for Human Rights. With a background in development studies and public administration, Jostein has held key roles in Norwegian Church Aid and the Norwegian Council for Africa. At the Rafto Foundation, he promotes freedom of expression and the protection of human rights defenders worldwide, with a focus on long-term support and international advocacy.
Jette F. Christensen
is a political scientist and the Europe and Security Analyst for Altinget. As a former Labour Party MP from Hordaland, Jette has served on key parliamentary committees, including Foreign Affairs and Defense. She also chairs the National Election Board at Altinget and moderates international forums on democracy and geopolitics. Her book, “Demokratiet, det er oss” (2024) explores vulnerabilities in democratic systems.
Faith Abiodun
has been the Executive Director of United World College International since 2021. He is a Nigerian education and social enterprise leader and has spent nearly a decade at the African Leadership Academy, advancing youth leadership in Africa. Founder of Future Africa and The Speech Academy, he also worked as a journalist with The Guardian, Nigeria. He holds degrees from the University of Ibadan and Syracuse University and serves on the board of News Decoder.
Bendik Egge
is the Director of Education at the Nobel Peace Center, where he manages the educational department through taking charge of the school program and the guided tours at the Nobel Peace Center and Nobel Education. Bendik is passionate about museums, history, and inspiring impactful learning journeys. Additionally, he is the former director at the Norwegian Museum of Travel and Tourism.