Gizeth Garcia
Programme Assistant
English
Forced Recruitment of Children and Adolescents in Colombia: Realities and Hopes
Despite the signing of the Final Agreement for the Termination of the Conflict on 24 November 2016, the forced recruitment of children and youth remains a troubling reality in some areas of Colombia. This is why we are working tirelesly to protect and safeguard youth.
Marcela’s story
Marcela is 15 years old and lives with her mother, stepfather, brother, sister-in-law and nephew in Bogotá. The relationships in her household have often been problematic, and left her feeling like she’s wasting her time and that she’s useless. Since joining the project, she has learned how to be more tolerant and how to build healthier relationships with her family.
Sandra’s story
After running away from home at 11 years old and getting involved in taking and dealing drugs, Sandra felt hopeless and turned to sex work to support her 2 children. With the support of our livelihood project for sexual workers in Bogotá, she has been able to leave sex work and has begun studying to be able to provide a better future for herself and her kids.
Cecilia’s story
After being placed in an overcrowded institution after fleeing a guerrilla group, Cecilia was brought to Bogotá to live in a foster home and rebuild her life.
Once an anxious child who dreamed of escaping, she now dreams of becoming a businesswoman and setting up her own hotel chain.
Celebrating the talent and dedication of remarkable Colombians in the UK
At the beginning of June, we hosted the first edition of the Colombian Changemakers Awards to honour the diverse talent and dedication of remarkable Colombians in the UK.
