"For a long time, I lived for death," says Manwar Ali, a former radical jihadist who participated in violent, armed campaigns in the Middle East and Asia in the 1980s. In this moving talk, he reflects on his experience with radicalization and makes a powerful, direct appeal to anyone drawn to Islamist groups that claim violence and brutality are noble and virtuous: let go of anger and hatred, he says, and instead cultivate your heart to see goodness, beauty and truth in others.

Manwar Ali: Inside the mind of a former radical jihadist

Inside the mind of a former radical jihadist

A former jihadist's journey from embracing violent extremism to advocating peace, questioning the justification of violence in jihad.

Realizing jihad's true essence involves striving for goodness, honesty, and compassion, debunking the myths of violent extremism.

Facing the grim realities of war and the loss of innocents, a radical's path shifts towards fostering understanding and coexistence.