Dear friends
Magical moments. That’s what I experienced this week in Kids of Africa. I often thought of you. As friends and supporters of our protégés, your support is crucial. How I would have loved to share these moments with you. So I write a few lines and attach a few snapshots and videos.
Last Friday we celebrated our 18th village birthday in Uganda. It was great cinema. It was never more touching, more beautiful, more emotional. All because of the kids. They are simply wonderful!
The morning started – as every year – with a musical parade of our little village through our neighbourhood.
Afterwards lots of sports and games – sack races, egg races, some football and more. In the afternoon, wonderful dances and singing performances.
In the evening, there was a party with music and a shared meal, brightly lit by a starry sky and a few candles. It was magical.
The best: our protégés. The little ones and the big ones. How children in need of help suddenly become strong, self-confident young adults. Those who courageously tread their own paths. They glow with energy, empathy and hunger for a better world.
Some work harder than I ever expected. But they haven’t forgotten how to party. It’s a good time. Especially when the formerly “difficult” ones recently turn out to be the successful ones. That sometimes brought tears to my eyes. When they speak in one breath of “gratitude, happiness and responsibility for a better world”. I could tell you wonderful stories. For example of Norah and Bob, of Brenda, Kalungi or Paul to name but a few. But I could go on with the list for a long time.
Or of Lilian, who came to me before I left to sing her version of “Hallelujah”. She allowed me to record her doing it. The recording is just a snapshot – but her voice and charisma are not. Take a look for yourself.
By the way: when I held Lilian in my arms for the first time 18 years ago, her body consisted only of skin, bones and a big, questioning head. Unspeakable goodness is created here. More than these lines can describe. That is why I thought of you so often, dear friends. Because the gratitude of the kids and their dream of a better future is also the fruit of your support.
Because there is nothing more beautiful than when help for children works out so well.
With this in mind, I want to send you good thoughts, warm greetings and great thanks.
Yours sincerely
Burkhard Varnholt
