Shalom was founded by Jean de Dieu Basabose and Cori Wielenga in 2007. Both are former students of the Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies department of the University of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. They completed post-graduate studies which focused on sustainable peace in the Great Lakes region.

Basabose Jean de Dieu directs Shalom and is based in Kigali, Rwanda. He holds a Masters degree in Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies, and his dissertation focused on the role of the ombudsman. He has five years experience as a peace practitioner in the Rwandan context, working primarily as a trainer.

Cori Wielenga co-directs Shalom and is based in Pretoria, South Africa. She is currently completingher doctorate in Peace Studies, with as topic reconciliation in Rwanda. She works part-time with a project working towards nonviolent means of discipline in schools in Pretoria.

Shalom is in the process of opening an office in Bujumbura, Burundi under the leadership of Jean Prime Harereimana who has completed a degree in African History and Literature. Harerimana is passionate about peace education taking root in Burundi.