Matters India Reporter
New Delhi, September 4, 2025: In the heart of New Delhi, where the aspirations of millions converge, a new wave of hope was set in motion for children like 10-year-old Kiran—once alone on the streets, now surrounded by friends from Snehalaya and buoyed by dreams.
The Don Bosco National Forum for the Young at Risk (DB YaR Forum) launched its 15th annual campaign, “Uphold our Hopes, Unfold our Dreams,” at DB Ashalayam on September 3, reaffirming its commitment to children in vulnerable circumstances across India.
The hybrid event united 65 Don Bosco centers nationwide, building on the legacy of previous initiatives such as “FAMILY is where I BELONG,” which produced 11 advocacy flipbooks championing children’s rights.
The DB YaR Forum, a pan-India network, works to rescue and rehabilitate at-risk youth from streets, slums, and railway stations, offering them safety, dignity, and opportunity.
The launch opened with a prayer dance by Snehalaya girls and a ceremonial lamp-lighting. Rector and Director of DB Ashalayam Fr Maria Arockiadoss welcomed participants, while William Kullu reflected on past achievements: “The flipbooks weren’t just publications—they were tools of empowerment. This new campaign carries that spirit forward.”
Father Joe Prabu, Executive Director of the DB National Forum, invoked the legacy of Don Bosco: “He dared to dream for the most marginalized. Today, we must live with realistic hopes and meaningful dreams to ensure every child flourishes.”
UNICEF Child Protection Specialist Vijayalakshmi Arora unveiled the campaign posters and delivered the keynote. Applauding the children’s performances, she said, “These expressions of art reflect the resilience within every child.”
“Uphold our Hopes, Unfold our Dreams” campaign calls upon society to nurture environments where every child can thrive—with dignity, support, and the freedom to dream.