A safe place for children
The project, in collaboration with Action for Children in Conflict (AfCiC), gives children access to age-appropriate leisure activities. Building on the experiences from the first project phase, children's rights clubs are being further developed and children and young people are being trained to become "Champions for Change"—young people who actively campaign for the strengthening of their rights.
In the children's rights clubs at the participating schools, children come together, exchange experiences, and thereby strengthen each other. Sports, role-playing games, and creative activities such as drawing and storytelling promote self-expression and support the development of important problem-solving skills.
In inter-school competitions in football, debating, creative writing, or dance, young people are given a platform and make their right to play visible. In doing so, children can surpass themselves, discover new strengths, and lay the foundation for their future.
"I'm so glad I met up with my friends and children from other schools to take part in the competition. I even received a certificate and I feel great."
A new beginning for work
Job*, 15 years old, ran away from home in fourth grade after his father's alcohol and drug problems escalated and domestic violence intensified. On the streets, he quickly became trapped in a cycle of drug use and dangerous situations. He was picked up by the police several times and often experienced violence during these encounters.
Attempts to find accommodation with other families or in other institutions also failed. Hard work, insecurity, and constant flight defined his daily life.
Despite everything, Job didn't give up. Eventually, he went to the police himself and asked for help. Through a children's center, he got in touch with a social worker from the Time to Play project, who encouraged him to stay at the center – a safe place where he could find stability and reliable support.
*Name changed to protect identity
Today, Job lives in a protected environment, can sleep safely, and attends school again.
His daily life has noticeably changed. Job has become calmer and more self-assured, treats others with more respect, and enjoys learning again. In doing so, he's discovered new strengths – from storytelling to baking chapati, something he's particularly proud of.
The project team will soon accompany him as he transfers to a boarding school in Meru County, so that he can continue his education and shape his own future.
This project is part of the "A Chance to Play" , through which Volkswagen employees, together with the Volkswagen Group Works Council, have been supporting projects for children and young people worldwide for 25 years. In cooperation with Terre des Hommes sustainable opportunities for young people are being promoted.
More about the program