Llanfairfechan mums make journey to Africa to help children

Jun 3 2010 by Rayyan Parry, North Wales Weekly News

A MOTHER of four has come back from a trip of a lifetime, to help poverty stricken children Africa.

Ceris Dien from Llanfairfechan took a plane for her first time to meet with the Kampala Junior Team (KJT) in Uganda.

The project develops the talents of children from disadvantaged backgrounds through football and drama.

The project which started with only eight people, now works with 400 young people, a majority of whom are orphans.

“They eat and breathe football. I’ve never seen such dedication an determination. It’s so inspiring.” said Ceris.

“I’m not a football person at all, but you cannot help feel impressed. They’re determined they’re going to be the best, they are going to win.”

The children went abroad to take part in the Norway Cup, an annual youth football tournament.

Although displaying a fine performance miles away from home, the youngsters were kicked out before the quarter finals.

On arriving, Ceris took a 10 hour bus journey to her destination absorbing the sights and scenes of East Africa.

“That was an amazing journey. It was just so green. You’ve got the tea plantation the banana trees. It was without a doubt the most uncomfortable journey I’ve ever made in my life.” she said humorously.

“I instantly felt at home. It’s really strange, I didn’t expect it. I absolutely loved it.” she said.

During her stay, Ceris had a chance to visit the slums, witnessing the poor living conditions of families.

“They come from incredibly poor backgrounds. It’s stepping back. The open sewage running along the side of the street. Little kids were rolling about in rags or worse.”

Ceris who is a poet and art lover was able to facilitate an art workshop with the children, getting them to draw each other.

She also met with musicians and artists keen on promoting their work.

Now, Ceris sells affordable African art from her shop Kushinda in Llanfairfechan.

Although her shop is not a charity, Ceris is collecting basic art materials for the children.

She is also hosting events to promote African art.

Zimbabwean poet, Dumi Senda will be performing his work at Llandudno library on June 19, followed by another event at the Llanfairfechan Church Institute on June 19.