I am brave, I am unique: programs for children in Ecuador that change lives

There are days that stay in your heart forever. Days when everything seems to align to remind us of what matters most: that every human being —especially every child— carries a unique spark within, a light that deserves to be seen and valued.

That’s exactly what happened on Friday, July 18, when, as part of Hearts of Gold’s “All Children Deserve to Dream” program, we held a very special workshop guided with care and sensitivity by clinical psychologist Gabriela Solano. Under the title “I Am Brave, I Am Unique”, this space was designed to help children flourish freely, without judgment, in an environment of safety, respect, and joy.

The purpose of the workshop was to strengthen self-esteem, build confidence, and provide emotional tools through art, play, and storytelling — all within a safe and playful environment rooted in love.

From the very beginning, the excitement was contagious. The children arrived curious, some shy, but all sharing the same desire: to be part of something beautiful. And so the journey began.

Activities that strengthen self-esteem in programs for children in Ecuador

“Shine passport”

We broke the ice with an activity that invited each child to write in their own symbolic “passport” the phrase: “I am special because…”

Watching them think, write, smile, and then share was truly moving.

Each answer was a little spark of sincerity.

“The invisible backpack”

With eyes closed, the children imagined carrying an invisible backpack full of talents, qualities, and dreams. Then, they drew them — from “I want to be a doctor” to “I’m good at helping my friends”.

“My crown of qualities”

With scissors, paper, and bright colors, the children made their own crowns and filled them with words like kind, creative, brave, and good friend. They wore them proudly — and the smiles said it all.

“My personal power shield”

This was one of the most intimate activities. Each shield was divided into four parts: something that makes them happy, something they’re good at, something they want to improve, and someone who inspires them. Sharing those answers created powerful emotional connections.

“The web of talents”

With a ball of yarn, we formed a visible web. Each child tossed the yarn to another while naming a quality they admired in them: You’re funny, You’re smart, I like how you share. By the end, we were all connected in a beautiful web of appreciation.

“The star I am”

To close the workshop, each child wrote on a paper star: “I shine when…” or “I’m valuable because…” Then, we joined all the stars into a symbolic constellation — our constellation of confidence.

A childhood that recognizes itself, blooms

Every activity was designed with emotional care and respect for differences. And the most beautiful part is that the children felt it. They lived it. They looked at themselves with tenderness, and they also learned to look at others with admiration and respect.

And as with every experience that leaves a mark, we ended by sharing a delicious pizza together. Between laughter, games, and bites, we sealed the memory of a day that will surely remain in their hearts.

At Hearts of Gold, we want to highlight the true protagonists of this day: the boys and girls who, with their words, gestures, and smiles, reminded us of how powerful they can be when they feel seen and valued.We are deeply grateful to the partner organizations, donors, and individuals who believe in this mission and make it possible for us to continue creating safe, loving, and transformative spaces for childhood.Because when a child recognizes themselves, they bloom — and with them, the entire community blooms.

This workshop is part of the programs for children in Ecuador led by Hearts of Gold, with the goal of supporting childhood through love, creativity, and the strengthening of self-esteem.

You can help a child shine too

With your support, we can continue creating spaces where every child feels valued, loved, and able to dream.

Click here and be part of the change.

Because all children deserve to dream… and you can help make that dream come true.