The community has been urged to “listen to the future”, the theme marking this year’s observance of World Children’s Day.

The event is celebrated globally on November 20 and the Family Centre is encouraging schools and the corporate community to wear blue colours tomorrow in support of children’s rights to be valued, protected and nurtured.

The charity said it heeded the voices of the island’s youth and was committed to building a brighter future for them.

Sandy De Silva, the charity’s executive director, said: “World Children’s Day is very special to Family Centre.

“Our mission strongly aligns with Unicef’s World Children’s Day theme, ‘Listen to the future’ and create a better world for every child.”

She said the charity’s founder, the late Martha Dismont, was a strong advocate for World Children’s Day and the Convention that protects the rights of children to be protected and nurtured, in Bermuda and around the world.

Dr De Silva added: “This World Children’s Day, we encourage all adults to ask the children and teens in their lives about their ideas, priorities, and dreams for the future, because they are powerful agents of change.

“Their ideas and perspectives can help shape a better future for all of us.”

Leila Wadson, director of community services, added: “Family Centre creates safe spaces where youth can share their thoughts, concerns and dreams with caring adults who listen and take action.”

She said the charity was especially proud of its Youth Leadership Academy, which equips youth with skills to become positive change-makers in the community.

She added: “Through our Beyond Rugby Bermuda and Beyond Yoga Bermuda programmes, we offer safe spaces for young people to connect, build resilience, and develop their strengths.

“These programmes are part of our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the care and support they need to reach their fullest potential.”

Susan Richardson, the charity’s director of counselling services, added: “Family Centre offers a safe space to receive free access to mental health counselling for families with children ages 4 to18.

“We help with emotional, mental and behavioural challenges that our children and teens may be experiencing.

“We assist with the development of essential life skills that build resilience.”

She said the charity’s counselling team was dedicated to improving the emotional and social wellbeing of children and teens.

“Listening to children is critical to their healing process,” she added.

Tomorrow, the charity will celebrate Founder’s Day, which commemorates Ms Dismont’s birthday and her legacy as a strong advocate for children and families in Bermuda.

• For more information, visit www.tfc.bm