Sunny Lanterns: When Creativity Breaks Boundaries
On October 29, 2025, Kyiv hosted the National Creative Festival Sunny Lanterns for children and youth with disabilities.
More than 130 participants from across Ukraine gathered at the Pechersk Palace Cultural Center to share what’s most valuable — their talent, heart, and sincerity. Every performance carried a message of hope. Every glance radiated strength. And every round of applause was an act of acceptance.
A space where every child can shine
The Sunny Lanterns Festival was created to give a voice to those who are too often unheard. For children and youth with disabilities, creativity is more than a passion — it’s a way to overcome anxiety, express themselves, find friends, and feel valued.
“Art is the language of the heart. And this festival proves that true creativity knows no boundaries,”
— Nataliia Druzenko, co-founder of the NGO WeCan.
On the Pechersk Palace stage, children from Chernivtsi, Rivne, Zhytomyr, Bila Tserkva, Odesa, and Kyiv performed songs, dances, theatrical acts, poems, and musical pieces. Special attention was given to participants with Down syndrome and mental disabilities.
Not a competition — a celebration
The festival format was designed not as a contest, but as a celebration. No one was judged — everyone was supported. Participants were selected through an initial online round, where they submitted videos of their performances. Finalists were then invited to perform live at the gala concert in Kyiv.
One of the most touching performances was "Silence" — a dance piece by the Syaivo collective from Rivne, which received the highest score of 200 points. But the true victory was seen in the children’s smiles, the happy tears of parents, and the genuine applause of the audience.
Inclusion in action
The festival demonstrated what real inclusion looks like — not in words, but in practice. The organizers ensured a welcoming and accessible environment: a convenient venue, professional stage, inclusive volunteer team, and full support for participants traveling from different regions.
The festival program included:
Who’s behind Sunny Lanterns?
The festival was made possible through the joint efforts of:
With the support of partners:
“We want to show that all children are talented. They all need a place where their talent can be seen,”
— Nataliia Druzenko.
What’s next?
The festival took place in several stages: online selection, live gala concert, hands-on workshops, and a closing media campaign. The team is currently working on:
Why it matters
Sunny Lanterns is more than just an event — it’s a cultural shift. It shows how creativity can build acceptance. How light can emerge even in dark times.
Expected impact:
“Even during air raids and shelter stays, they continue to sing, draw, and dream. And we must be there — to support them, give them a stage, and truly see them,”
— Magic Wings Foundation team.
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