11/03/2011

Balsena, a pinoneering children's union set up in India by our project partner, Shaishav, but entirely run by the children themselves. As a collective, Balsenites (the children who are members) are working to strengthen children's access to child rights.

Cynthia - Hello everyone

"De Tali" a greeting used by all Balsenites.

Cynthia – Where do you all get your inspiration from?

“Learning about child rights and opportunities with Shaishav. There is no discrimination and we are motivated by our enthusiasm to work for child rights outside our homes. We are taking responsibility for children’s rights and aim to get more and more child labourers joining Balsena.

But we also enjoy just making new friends and having lots of fun.”

Cynthia – Would you recommend Balsena to other children in the world?

(A resounding) “YES!”

Cynthia – Why would you recommend Balsena to other children in the world?

“We learn new things and enjoy new experiences in Balsena! It increases your confidence to speak out in the local community!”
“We have have fun and play”
“Being part of the Child Rights Audit (where we went out into the community to find vulnerable children) helped me understood more about our rights”
“I do things here I have never done before”
“I participate in activities and have gained confidence to go out of my home and learn new things, despite my disability”
“After joining Balsena, we see changes in ourselves and our communities”

Cynthia – what are you discussing about now (they were talking in whispers)?

“Child rights day is tomorrow and we are talking about what we will be doing.”

Cynthia – what will you be doing?

“Meeting with people of child focused organisations, talking to them and learning about what they do. We hope to get to know the children in these communities and becoming their friends.”

Cynthia – I like the Savings Bank Programme (a scheme which sees Balsena members save their money).  How many of you belong to this programme and why do you like it?

“Most of our members are involved in the Savings Bank Programme and feel that it is very importantWe like to save so we can use our money for the important things.  If we want to go on a picnic, we will have money to go together.  We each gave 50 rupees towards the children’s day celebration tomorrow. We save our pocket money to buy books and materials when we need them for school. If conditions are not good and we fall ill, we can afford treatment.  Saving the money prevents spending on addictions such as chewing tobacco."

Balsenite sayings

“Balsena are the children of India, the children of Balsena will definitely change the world”

“We will work so that all children in India get their rights”

“Balsena children will spread equality and participation across the world”

“We will remove discrimination”

Find out more about Balsena and help us to continue to support these children, who are at the forefront of development. Please give!