The children who taught us what change looks like

When a child receives help, a life begins to change. But when that same child uses their voice to help others, the world begins to shift. At CRY, we have seen this journey unfold many times, as children who once needed support now stand tall as leaders who guide, protect, and give back to their communities. They remind us that true change is not only about what is given but about how hope, once received, grows and multiplies through action.

This Children’s Day, let us look at how CRY is helping children move from being supported to becoming those who lead change in their communities.

The journey from receiving to leading

The true measure of change lies in how it continues. It’s in the moments when children find their confidence, take initiative, and begin shaping their own communities.

For instance, a bright 12th-grade student from North India, Manita’s life took a difficult turn when she lost her father. With no steady income, her education came to a halt, and her dream of becoming a nurse began to fade. With timely intervention and support, she joined CRY’s Life Skills Sessions, regained her confidence, and found the courage to start again. Today, with access to scholarships and hostel facilities, she teaches younger students while pursuing her ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwife) course, driven by the dream of giving back to her community.

Similarly, 12-year-old Bandana* once believed her future lay in street vending during festivals, as her education seemed over after the sudden demise of her mother, the sole breadwinner of the family. But with emotional and academic support from the project team and the safe space at CRY’s Child Activity Center, she learned to dream big and found a voice that could not be silenced. Today, Bandana has returned to school and leads her village’s children’s community group as its chairperson, ensuring other children like her stay in school and find the courage to dream big.

How CRY helps children become changemakers

Behind every story like Manita’s is a space that allows children to dream, speak, and lead. Through Life Skills Sessions and safe spaces for open conversations, CRY helps children form opinions, build confidence, and understand their rights.

These sessions go beyond learning as they nurture leadership, self-belief, and the courage to dream big. Children begin to express themselves freely, take initiative, and realise that their voices can bring real change. Once that confidence takes root, it spreads. They start supporting one another, asking questions, and leading small acts of change that ripple through their communities.

They grow from being helped to helping others, their voices becoming movements that the world listens to.

Conclusion

On this Children’s Day, as we celebrate the spirit and strength of children, we are reminded that true giving isn’t just about resources. It is about nurturing their voice, agency, and the power to stand tall. Every time a child learns to lead, the world grows a little brighter. Donate to CRY UK today to build a future that shines bright for all children.

*Name changed to protect identity