I don’t know that I am ready to write about this experience yet but I know that I will be thinking about my conversation for a long time. My first portals conversation was with a twenty-something man who had just finished his military service – two years are required to obtain a passport therefore leave the country. Our conversation followed a surprising turn where he began by saying he would turn his back on all Iran but he ended by acknowledging the aspects of his life. My second portals conversation was with Mahsa

I really enjoyed speaking in the portal this morning. I had the opportunity to meet Mahsa, a woman photographer in grad school. As a photographer myself, we had a lovely conversation about one role at being a photographer and the difficulties that can come with that (especially for her in Tehran). I love the idea of the portal – stepping into the darkened container and making a connection with someone overseas. I love how successful the portal is in connecting 2 strangers. We use technology all day long and yet we can still feel a disconnect. The portal, in its simplicity, defies that. Thank you! Jessica

I had the chance to reconnect with my brother who was in Mexico City at the time. It was very real, almost like he was standing right there in front of me. It made me so happy I cried. I didn't think I was going to get to see him again in a long time and that experience made me so incredibly happy. Thank you very much for this!

here I talk live to some young footballers in a refugee settlement in Uganda. So powerful to hear their stories [at]dohadebates.

Today at the UN Portal my middle school students had the most fantastic learning experience...My kids learned more about Day of the Dead traditions and Mexico in those 15 minutes than in hours of classroom time.

I’ve worked at the US Holocaust Memorial Museum for 25+ yrs and I can honestly say that this is one of the best things we’ve ever done.

I had the best experience performing with Iranian-Kurdish sitar, tonbak, and daf player, Amir F! We played a few Kurdish songs together (he told me the names of some I only know from Youtube!) and discussed our favorite musicians, including violinist violin Mojtaba Mirzada. I have never been to Iran, and this was my first time performing for an audience in Iran. Endless thanks for an incredible opportunity!

I spoke with three 7th grade girls from Honduras. Basically, the most engaging conversation I’ve ever had. 100% recommended.