Caritas Australia who I’ve worked with a number of times have launched their 2013 Project Compassion profiles which showcase outstanding examples of how development can initiate positive change for individuals and communities.
I was lucky enough to report on one such person called Raymundo (24) in Bolivia. An incredibly energetic and charismatic guy whose life story is an inspiration to many underprivileged children in his home town of Cochabamba. Having a difficult start in life he has gone from street child with addiction issues to gaining a degree at University and a passion for helping others who face the same problems he managed to overcome.
This was made possible through a local NGO called Educar es Fiesta (Education is Celebration) a circus school for vulnerable children who rescued him from the streets and gave direction to his life. He is now a teacher there and has gained a celebrity like status with the children..!
I was only with him for a few hours so below are some pictures and short video produced by Caritas Australia which gives you an insight into his inspiring life…
Raymundo Ramos (22) has been with Educar es Fiesta, a circus school based in Cochabamba, Bolivia since the age of 9. Here he is teaching children acting and circus skills on the roof of Wasy Tukuypaj.
The Educar es Fiesta centre called Wasy Tukuypaj which means 'House of All' in local Quecha language in San Francisco area of Ushpa Ushpa. The town of 50,000 people has a large migrant population so many of the children have never grown up with their parents. They located here due to the high number of parentless children.
Educar es Fiesta which means Education is Celebration is a circus school based in Cochabamba, Bolivia. Its primary role is to assist children at risk though the prevention of violence against children. It runs circus and art classes and education lessons for children aged 8-16. They also work with parents and teachers informing them about child rights. Over 1,500 children have participated in the program since 1999.