Peru: Combating social inequality with art and compassion

The Carapongo Valley is located in the outlying district of Lurigancho-Chosica, east of the Peruvian capital Lima – a region that is scenically beautiful but also marked by poverty. This is where the Sonqo Kusichiy educational and social project is based. The name comes from the indigenous Quechua language and means ‘a joyful heart’. It is a fitting name for a project that not only provides children and young people from disadvantaged families with school education but also encourages creative development and the courage to face the challenges of life.

Sonqo Kusichiy originally began as a social and cultural project that provided children with free afternoon art classes and workshops based on Waldorf education outside of school. This grew into a kindergarten and eventually a Waldorf school.
The majority of the children who attend Sonqo Kusichiy come from economically precarious backgrounds. Their parents often work in insecure, poorly paid jobs – in informal trade, as day labourers, in domestic work, or in construction. A regular income is rare, and there are hardly any savings. Quite a few children live in broken families or with relatives, some even unsupervised at times. Domestic violence and lack of care are also part of everyday life for many children.

Sonqo Kusichiy is a place where these children are seen and taken seriously. They not only receive lessons, but also attention and appreciation. Artistic work in particular allows them to express and process their inner worlds.

In order to survive without donations, the school would have to charge a monthly school fee of 450 soles (about €110), but only a few families can afford this amount. Many pay only 50 percent, some only 20 percent, and some nothing at all. Nevertheless, no child is excluded. However, this means that the institution regularly
faces major challenges, as running costs such as salaries, rent, materials, electricity, and water must be covered.

Sonqo Kusichiy's work is long-term: the aim is not only to provide children with short-term help, but also to equip them with sustainable life skills. The diverse range of activities on offer – from lessons in music, handicrafts and theatre to parenting classes – is designed to involve the whole family. The ‘Escuela para-Padres’ (Parenting School) provides important impetus for initiating change in the family environment as well.

Another focus is on strengthening cultural identity. Many activities are based on Peruvian traditions and festivals, helping children develop a connection to their roots and build cultural self-confidence. This sense of belonging is an important stabilising factor, especially for children who face exclusion and insecurity on a daily basis.

Without additional financial support through donations, Sonqo Kusichiy will find it difficult to continue its valuable work.