The Origin of The PeaceDrum
Sometimes, an extraordinary story begins with a simple longing.
This is how The PeaceDrum came into being: from a dream that people could meet one another beyond differences in origin, beliefs, culture or outlook on life.
A Dream Takes Shape
The first seed was planted by Marga Tatti, Grandmother White Owl. She dreamed of a world in which people treated one another with greater kindness and where love, compassion and respect were stronger than fear and division.
Together with Paolo Tatti, Els Suys and Guy Bijl, that dream grew into a concrete initiative. Four people, each with their own experiences and background, united by the same belief: a drum can be much more than a musical instrument.
Throughout history and across almost every culture, drums have brought people together. They have sounded during celebrations and ceremonies, as well as in moments of reflection, joy and sorrow. Their rhythm reminds us of something we all share: the heartbeat of life.
The Birth of the Drum
In May 2026, dreams, friendship and craftsmanship came together in Oostburg, the Netherlands.
The PeaceDrum was created using a birchwood frame and a cowhide drumhead. With a diameter of 45 centimetres, she is large enough to carry her deep sound and, at the same time, small enough to travel safely from person to person.
Paolo and Guy worked together to build and lace the Drum. With care and patience, she gradually took shape. Marga then painted the design onto the hide. In this way, the original dream became not only audible, but visible as well.
Every action became part of her birth. Selecting the frame, preparing the hide, lacing, drying, drawing and painting: everything was carried out with care and with respect for the purpose that awaited her.
The PeaceDrum was not created to remain in one place. From the very beginning, she was destined to travel.
Her First Heartbeat
On 13 June 2026, The PeaceDrum was consecrated during the Drum Circle for Peace in the Druïdebos of De Druïde in Stekene, Belgium.
Under the care of Els Suys and surrounded by people, nature and other drums, her first ceremonial heartbeat sounded. It was the moment when the dream truly came to life.
From the Druïdebos, she set out on her journey—not as the property of one person or organisation, but as a traveling messenger of peace, unity and hope.
Why a Traveling Drum?
We live in a time when people increasingly seem to stand against one another. Differences can lead to distance, misunderstanding and division. At the same time, there is a deep longing for genuine encounters, humanity and mutual respect.
The PeaceDrum does not seek to provide answers or convince anyone. She seeks to create a space where people can listen, share and meet one another again as human beings.
That is why she travels freely from place to place. Everyone who welcomes her becomes a temporary Guardian. That person or organisation cares for the Drum, gives her a meaningful place and then helps her continue her journey safely.
Every Guardian adds a new chapter to her story. Every encounter carries her message a little further..
Inspired by The World Drum
The idea of a traveling drum is not new.
Years ago, The World Drum journeyed across the world, bringing together people from different cultures and traditions. The power of a single drum to create connection across borders left a deep and lasting impression on many.
When her journey came to a pause, that inspiration continued to live on.
The PeaceDrum is neither a replacement for nor a competitor to The World Drum. She was created as a new and independent initiative, with deep respect for The World Drum's journey, her Guardians and her original mission.
We hope that one day, both Drums may meet and unite their voices during a ceremony.
From Hand to Hand
The PeaceDrum never truly travels alone.
Wherever she is welcomed, she meets people with their own drums, traditions and stories. During ceremonies, circles, meditations and other gatherings, their rhythms sound together.
Some encounters are large, while others are small and intimate. The number of people is not important. What matters is the intention with which they come together.
Each time the Drum is passed on, a living chain of connection is created between people who may never have met, yet share the same longing.
Every destination adds a new heartbeat to her journey.
Small Encounters, a Big Difference
The PeaceDrum is a free and non-commercial initiative. Her journey is made possible by volunteers and by the hospitality of the people who welcome her.
We believe that peace is not created only at negotiating tables.
Peace also begins within the human heart. In an open conversation. In sharing a moment of silence. In the willingness to truly listen to one another. In a shared rhythm that reminds us that, despite all our differences, we are part of one human family.
That is the dream behind The PeaceDrum.
And that dream continues to travel, from hand to hand and from heart to heart.
One Drum. Many Hearts. One World.