On 30 July, CARE TO ACTION celebrated Todhu Mela 2026, its first Children’s Day event in Vijayawada. More than 1,000 children, teenagers, young adults, and families from our child sponsorship programme came together for a day dedicated to education and to the journey we have been sharing with them every day.

Throughout the event, children, parents, young people, and members of our staff took the stage to share their stories. Their testimonies showed what access to education truly means and how it can create new opportunities for the future.

Four mothers spoke about their personal experiences, explaining how important it is for them to give their children something they themselves never had: the opportunity to receive an education and the freedom to choose their own future.

One of the most meaningful moments of the day was the public pledge made by the parents, who committed to supporting their children’s education until they reach adulthood. In the communities where we work, this commitment represents a significant milestone and the result of a long journey built together over time.

The event concluded with the inspiring stories of five young women who were able to complete their university education thanks to the support of Italian sponsors. They shared how education transformed their lives, and one word echoed throughout all of their testimonies: independence.

This is the outcome of a journey that, together with children, young people, and their families, we have been building for more than 35 years.