English

A warm breeze drifts through the barred window. Outside, a dusty dirt road leads down to the water, where small blue-and-white fishing boats bob gently as Caribbean waves lap the shore. Somewhere nearby, a cumbia beat plays from a radio or phone. A few adventurous tourists, straying from Santa Marta’s center, sit at makeshift beachside restaurants, eating fresh caught fish with coconut rice.

“Todo es un reto acá,” she says, her voice loud and edged with frustration. She crosses her arms over her chest.

This is an artistic and academic event organized by Universidad Reformada, which gives an academic, social and cultural space for the interchange of dialogue and artistic experiences. In 2025, the focus was on the topic of gender violence and raising the visibility of women in percussion.

While recognition of past crimes is essential, they must also translate into action now to stop this terrible practice from continuing. Reports of children taking part in and affected by violence across Colombia continue to rise, meaning our work has never been more urgent, to help both those already affected and to prevent others from having to experience it in the future.

Every July 20th, Colombians around the world come together to celebrate their nation’s independence, a moment not just of historical significance, but of cultural pride and community.

Across Colombia, Children Change Colombia and Blossom & Berry are collaborating to train local leaders in nurturing touch techniques, giving them the necessary skills and qualifications to become facilitators and to lead workshops that allow parents and caregivers to build strong emotional bonds with young children.

Designed to celebrate and strengthen cultural identity, ‘Colombia Colores’ offers a joyful and immersive experience where children explore Colombian heritage through singing, storytelling, traditional music, dance, and play.