Bridging two worlds creates unforgettable memories

Looking back at her time in Nicaragua this past April, Sylvia Calleri easily pinpoints the instant that stood out most for her, from what was a remarkable journey.

“My favorite moment of the visit was when I saw Keyling for the first time, because I recognized that smile of hers from the photograph when I first became a sponsor, when she was only seven years old,” Sylvia explains.

It was a trip years in the making for Sylvia, who was in the country to volunteer her time with another organization. For her, it was a perfect opportunity for her to meet the young woman she has written to and supported faithfully for seven years.

“I feel grateful. This is a wonderful opportunity to be able to share and get to know her,” she says. “I was waiting three years to make this visit, but due to COVID-19, I had not been able to do it.”

With the support of Children Believe staff, Keyling and her mother bonded for a day with Sylvia over meals and shopping at a local mall. Keyling quickly overcame some initial shyness and really enjoyed her time with her Canadian supporter. It was a great learning experience for both of them.

For Sylvia, meeting Keyling face-to-face brought out emotions she hadn’t experienced in their letter exchanges.

“I have been a sponsor since Keyling was a little girl, and being able to see the teenager that she has become, with clear goals to continue studying, fills me with great joy,” she says. “I will continue to support her dreams and her studies, to help her become a professional.”

Take a look at our ChildVoice magazine to learn how sponsorship, projects and more are positively transforming the lives of children, families and communities.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Childfund Alliance

A member of ChildFund Alliance, Children Believe is part of a global network of child-focused development organizations working to create opportunities for children and youth, their families and communities. ChildFund helps nearly 23-million children and their families in 70 countries overcome poverty and underlying conditions that prevent children from achieving their full potential. We work to end violence against children; provide expertise in emergencies and disasters to ease the harmful impact on children and their communities; and engage children and youth to create lasting change and elevate their voices in decisions that affect their lives.