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OUR PATRON 

Fernando Montaño

Fernando is a Principal Guest Ballet Dancer, Honoris Causa Doctor of the Arts, University of Bath, he was a soloist with the Royal Ballet, two-time winner of the Latin-UK Awards (LUKAS awards) and a judge for Colombia’s Strictly come Dancing(Dancing With the Stars).

Born in the Colombian city of Buenaventura, one of the most dangerous cities in the country, Fernando understands the risks children and young people in Colombia face, and the transformative power of dance. “Dance transformed my life, that’s why I believe CCC’s work is so important. Through dance, music, and sport the children they support are able to escape violence, gain self-esteem and are empowered to change their lives and communities”.

“The peace accord with the guerrilla is hugely significant for Colombia, but it hasn’t ended all the violence. Some neighbourhoods, like Aguablanca where I grew up, are still controlled by drugs gangs who rule by fear and extreme brutality and who seek to recruit children. So there’s an urgent need for Children Change Colombia’s work to keep young people away from violence and help them build peace in their communities.”

 

Our patron Fernando Montaño performing to Prince Charles and Camila

“But they also do more than that. In many places the years of conflict have destroyed community life and people are afraid and mistrust their neighbours. And a community ruled by fear is one that leaves children to fend for themselves on hostile streets.

“So CCC help children take the lead in rebuilding community ties. Through dance, music festivals or football, these young people are bringing their neighbours together to resist the fear and defy the gangs who would harm children.”

To see Fernando in action, come along to one of the many star-studded events he organises and performs in in benefit of Children Change Colombia! Contact us for further information, or check out our Upcoming Events pages

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