During a recent visit to an aided school located in the interiors of Trivandrum district in Kerala, volunteers from our team introduced children to the enchanting world of Origami, the traditional Japanese art of paper folding. Origami, which combines “Ori” (folding) and “Kami” (paper) in Japanese, became a profound educational tool, especially when paired with the inspiring story of Sadako Sasaki.
Sadako Sasaki was a 12-year-old girl who had leukaemia as a result of the Hiroshima nuclear bombing during World War II. While hospitalised, Sadako learned of a Japanese legend: folding 1000 paper cranes would grant the maker a wish. Driven by hope, she began folding cranes, wishing for recovery. Although Sadako was unable to complete her goal, her story became a global emblem of peace and resilience.
The Origami session was not just a demonstration, but a hands-on experience that allowed the children to actively participate in the craft. It introduced them to Sadako’s story, a tale of hope, determination, and the quest for peace. As the children folded their paper cranes, they were not just engaging in a craft; they were imbibing lessons of perseverance and empathy, making the experience more impactful and memorable.
These activities reflect the broader mission of our volunteer team—to empower children through meaningful interactions and stories that spark curiosity and compassion. Each fold of the paper crane was not just a craft but a step towards fostering a deeper understanding of peace and resilience in these young minds. We believe that these lessons will stay with them, shaping their understanding of the world and their role in it.
By combining hands-on learning with powerful narratives, our volunteers are making a lasting impact on the lives of these children, encouraging them to seek the stories behind simple concepts and to carry forward the values of hope and peace.
Together, they are making a difference, one fold at a time.
