Zonta Club of Pampanga helps kids dream

To celebrate the 8th anniversary of Bale-balayan, a museum of arts for underprivileged children, the Zonta Club of Pampanga, Philippines, held a children's talent program to encourage them to keep dreaming and pursue a future in the arts. 

The program started with a show where many children showcased their talents in singing, dancing, playing instruments and more. The 4 to 16-year-olds were divided into three groups based on age brackets. During the talent show, the club encouraged the participants to continue their craft to keep them from the streets and exploitation and help discipline them. 

After the talent show, Bon Guevarra, husband of Zontian Kaye Guevarra, hosted a virtual presentation called "Batang Gen Z; Ayaw sa Abuso." In a simple presentation, Bon talked about different professions they can pursue in the arts and gender equality. The children were given a chance to speak on their thoughts about gender equality and were rewarded when answering questions Bon asked.

Another topic was focused on child abuse and respect for women. The children were taught that abuse and violence could be reported to their nearest barangay and to give them the awareness that respect towards women and girls is essential. The club believes that we have to teach the concept of respect to young children so that they will grow as responsible individuals.

Towards the end of the program, children received a meal, courtesy of the club, and notebooks and pencils for school. The club also gifted the children items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, candies and bags of rice to take home to their families.