Masha is from Ukraine, like so many other children whose lives have been disrupted by war. She and her family had to leave their home in search of safety. In Georgia, Masha found a new beginning at Happy Space, a non-formal education and development centre run by World Vision Georgia. Here, children and their parents can take part in a variety of classes, language courses, art therapy sessions, and receive much-needed psychosocial support. For families like Masha’s, the centre has been truly life-changing. It has helped thousands of children and parents heal from the stress and trauma of war, adapt to a new environment, and regain a sense of independence in a foreign country. For little Masha, the centre became a safe and warm space where she could simply be a child again—laughing, playing with friends, exploring her creativity, and dreaming about the future.

Here is Masha's message about her personal experience :

“I really love the New Year because it is associated with mandarins, toys, and gifts. My name is Masha, and I am 11 years old. I have been attending Happy Space classes for a little over a year now. When I joined Happy Space, I started opening up more to other people and became more confident in my life. I also started drawing much better because I attend art classes here.

I really like the atmosphere in the centre. Once, for St. Nicholas Day, we drew paintings inspired by the famous artist Frida Kahlo. We also had a photoshoot, brought our own wreaths, and proudly showed our drawings. It was very fun.

I would like to sincerely thank everyone who supports children like me. My heartfelt wish for the New Year is that the war ends and that we can safely return home to Ukraine.’’