‘Tell me the truth mum, I’m all grown up now, Santa doesn’t really exist, does he? It’s you and dad that put all the presents under the Christmas tree and in our stocking,’ reasoned my 10-year-old son. It’s the age they deserve to know the truth. But I refuse to spoil the magic, deep down my boy wants to believe in this magic and so do I, to be honest. My job as a mother is to make sure this lasts for as long as possible.
We make the magic, and Christmas through the eyes of our children is an even better fairy tale than the one we lived through as a child. Every family conjures up their own magic, and every household has a modified version to this grand Christmas tale. Eight years ago I met a woman, a mother, and a philanthropist that wanted this magic to be experienced outside the realms of her home. Her name is Carina Savva.
‘Funraising’, a charity which she made real in 2010, helps families and children that are in need of basic materials and supplies. Her vision is to create a better world for these under privileged children with the help of her beloved friends, supporters, members and volunteers. Carina and co. host a variety of events to be able to keep ‘Funraising’ afloat but the most magical is the annual 2-day Santa’s workshop in December. She has brought the magic from her home to Limassol, for all the children that are deprived of it and for all those that can’t get enough of it. Known as the ‘Funraising Fairies’, Carina now has an army of help behind her to create her Christmas Wonderland. I too am a fairy. ‘Funraising’s’ face painting fairy! She has turned all her fairies into real magic makers- which ultimately is the most rewarding thing in the world.
With my ‘Funraising’ partner, Maria Laspou. Fairies since 2011.
‘The Trakasol Cultural Centre’ in Limassol, is transformed into a Christmas haven for parents, children and volunteers. Christmas carols make it festive along with the roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Books are sold, markets are set up, cakes and cookies are prepared, shows are carried out and faces are painted. Santa takes his place to work THE MAGIC and all the while, tables and benches fill the hall with arts and crafts, stimulating the children and making them prepare for the holidays. Christmas trees, cards, decoration, stockings and clay are just a few to mention.
The buzz and vibe we all get whilst volunteering during this weekend is enough to last us for the Christmas holidays. Speaking on behalf of all fairies, we are given something to look forward to and something to absolutely enjoy, alone and with our families. The joy I witness whilst face painting children that have never been face painted before, or that only do it when occasions like this occur is indescribable. Every year my children await for this event, my daughter especially. She comes along and demands to help out rather than take part in all the activities. This is an eye opener and a life lesson for her and for all our privileged children.
Christmas is something we should all believe in, literally and metaphorically. It unites, brings happiness and love. I worked as much verbal magic as I could when I was questioned by my son on whether Santa is real. And as a teacher I do the same thing. Growing up next to an orphanage, Carina has always extended this magic to beyond her family and has shown us to do the same. Thank you Carina for making us real magic makers.
Santa’s workshop will take place at the ‘Trakasol Cultural Centre’ in Limassol this weekend.
Saturday 10th December 11:00-19:00
Sunday 11th December 11:00-19:00
