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Colourful Chronicles, Maun (2026)

07/01/2026

Crown Confidence: Shining Bright with Masa 👑

Hello Kings and Queens

Welcome to my first article of the year. I am very excited to start this new season by sharing a story that is close to my heart, a story that reminds us where inspiration truly begins.

This photo was taken on 1 January during our family gathering, and it shows more than just a moment. It shows purpose, pride, and inspiration. Standing with me are family members who are also national sports stars, and each one carries Botswana’s flag with excellence.

In the photo is Dingane O.K. Motswadira, a Botswana national basketball player and power forward with more than eight years of experience. He has represented Botswana at big competitions such as the All Africa Games in Ghana, the National Games in Lesotho where he won a gold medal, and the Africa Cup 3x3 in Madagascar. His journey teaches me that discipline and consistency can help dreams come true.

Also with us is Ogaufi Sakoi, a talented national athlete and pitcher. His hard work has earned him Best Pitcher and MVP trophies, four gold medals, and one silver medal at national and regional level. He is also a leader and holds a certificate in Effective Leadership and Governance, which shows that learning is important too.

Completing this strong family circle are Victor Jaba and Thatayaone Jaba, national level gold medalist boxers. Their strength, focus, and determination inspire me every day as a young queen.

Being surrounded by family members who work hard, stay disciplined, and proudly represent Botswana reminds me that greatness truly begins at home. This special moment made me enter the new year feeling motivated, thankful, and confident that dreams grow bigger and stronger when family believes in you.

With love,
Masa Maria Phodiso
International Queen | Writer | Founder of Hope-filled Projects

06/01/2026

Tuesday Motivation with Winnie Winani Mpala, editor in chief Colourful Chronicles Magazine

Welcome to 2026🎊

Learning to Stand

The birth of a baby giraffe is one of the most earth-shaking events in nature. The newborn drops from its mother’s womb, falling nearly eight feet to the ground. Fragile and trembling, it lies still, too weak to move.

The mother giraffe gently lowers her long neck and nudges her calf with affection, almost like a reassuring kiss. Then something unexpected happens. She lifts her powerful leg and kicks the baby, sending it tumbling across the ground. The calf curls up in shock and exhaustion. Again, the mother kicks it. And again. Until, despite its shaking limbs and overwhelming fatigue, the baby gathers strength and struggles to stand on its own feet for the very first time.

Seeing this, the mother giraffe does something surprising once more. She kicks the baby again. The calf falls, but this time it quickly rises, steadier and stronger. The mother is pleased. She knows her baby has learned a crucial lesson, no matter how hard you fall, you must always rise again.

This harsh but loving act has a purpose. Lions and leopards are always nearby, waiting for weakness. If the baby giraffe does not learn quickly how to stand and run, it will not survive. Strength, independence, and resilience are not optional, they are essential.

Sadly, most of us are not taught this lesson so clearly. No one kicks us out of our comfort zones when we fall. When life knocks us down, when plans fail and support disappears, we often give up instead of standing again. We wait for rescue, for guidance, for someone else to lead us.

Yet the best way to achieve true freedom in life is to remember this, never place total reliance on anyone other than yourself when it comes to guiding your own life. Advice may help, support may encourage, but direction must come from within. Never place anyone’s head above your own. Your life, your purpose, and your survival are your responsibility.

As we step into 2026, let it be the year of self-reliance. Let it mark the season where we learn to stand even when no one lifts us, to rise even when no one comforts us, and to move forward even when fear lurks nearby. Like the baby giraffe, may we learn quickly that strength is built by standing up again and again, until it becomes second nature.

Picture: AI Generated with Picsart

31/12/2025

Crown Confidence: Shining Bright with Masa 👑

A New Year, New Goals, New Me!

A new year is like opening a brand-new book with clean pages. It is exciting because we get a chance to start fresh, try again, and dream even bigger. As we enter this new year, it is a good time for children like me to think about our goals.

Goals are little promises we make to ourselves. They help us become better learners, kinder friends, and braver dreamers. A goal can be something simple, like improving your reading, being more confident in class, helping at home, or being kind to everyone at school.

When I set goals, I feel happy because I know what I am working towards. I do not have to be perfect, I just need to try my best every day. Even small steps matter, and it is okay to ask for help from parents, teachers, or friends when things feel hard.

As children, we should remember that learning is a journey. Sometimes we may fall, but that does not mean we failed, it means we are growing. Every new year gives us another chance to stand up, smile, and keep going.

The Bible encourages us in Proverbs 16:3, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.”

This new year, let us commit our goals, dreams, and efforts to God.

To all my fellow children, believe in yourself, be kind, work hard, and never stop dreaming. This new year is your chance to shine.

With love,
Masa Maria Phodiso
International Queen | Writer | Founder of Hope-filled Projects

30/12/2025

Tuesday Motivation with Winnie Winani Mpala, editor in chief Colourful Chronicles Magazine

Happy New Year, Colourful family 🎄

“Your imagination is your preview of life’s coming attractions.” — Albert Einstein

2026 is just a few hours away, and the excitement is palpable. There is a sense of renewed hope in the air as we look forward to the new year with great expectations. We pile our hopes onto this brand-new year, believing it will be the answer to all the challenges that besieged us in 2025. We convince ourselves that with the turning of the calendar, everything will somehow fall into place.

Yet, in the midst of this excitement, we often forget a sobering truth. Without inner change, the new year can easily become a mirage. Year in and year out, we may find ourselves dancing to the same tune, repeating the same cycles, and asking the same questions, if we do not come to the realisation that the key to our success lies within us. A new year does not automatically bring transformation, a renewed mind does.

All the changes we anticipate in our lives begin in the mind. Our thoughts shape our attitudes, our attitudes influence our actions, and our actions determine our outcomes. What we consistently visualise, believe in, and intentionally pursue eventually finds expression in our lives. Imagination, when aligned with purpose and action, becomes a powerful force for change.

So, what are you imagining as you step into 2026? Are your dreams vague wishes, or are they clear visions anchored in intention and direction? What steps are you taking today to bring those dreams closer to reality? How hungry are you for success? Are you willing to do the inner work required to see outer results?

As we cross into 2026, let us not only celebrate a new year, but also commit to a renewed mindset. Let us dare to imagine boldly, think intentionally, and act courageously. May this be the year we stop waiting for change and start becoming it. Let us bring our dreams to life in 2026.

28/12/2025

‎Faith-Fuelled Living: Sunday Inspiration from the Bible by Evangelist William Atema.
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‎THE FEAR OF GOD AS A CHANNEL OF BLESSING
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‎SCRIPTURE: Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments. His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed. Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth forever. Psalms 112:1-3
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‎ To fear God is to hate evil; and the fear of God is the channel of the Blessing. The man who fears God is a natural candidate for the Blessing (Psalms 112:1-3). Job was blessed by God because He feared the Lord (Job 1:1-3). It is not possible for anybody to be blessed by God without the fear of God.

‎It is important to know that the Blessing of God is beyond having physical stuff; it is the totality of God’s package of goodness for man’s welfare, wholeness, serenity and tranquility.
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‎Now, what are the dimensions of the fear of God that provokes the Blessing of God?
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‎1. The fear of God entails the hatred of evil:
‎To fear God is to hate evil; and the fear of God is the channel of the Blessing (Proverbs 8:13). Blessed is he that fears the LORD (Psalms 112:1-3); this means, if to fear the LORD is to be blessed, then to hate evil is also to be blessed. To hate evil is not to be comfortable anywhere evil is present or being perpetrated.
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‎2. The fear of God entails the passion to give God pleasure with one’s life (Ecclesiastes 12:13)
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‎The fear of God is the passionate desire to ensure God is pleased with your life; it is the passion to give God pleasure with your life.
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‎3. The fear of God entails the tenderness or purity of motive and conscience (Proverbs 8:13).
‎The fear of God is in place where the motive of a person is pure.
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‎When the motive is not pure, the conscience is hardened; such people who can do anything with impunity are not candidates for the Blessing.
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‎Beloved, my counsel is, make up your mind to fear God at all times.
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‎Godly assignment:
‎1. Make up your mind to give God pleasure with your life.
‎2. Maintain a clear conscience always.
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‎PRAYER: Father, I receive the grace to give You pleasure with my life and to maintain a pure conscience always, Lord in the Name of Jesus Christ
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‎Happy Lord's Day, blessed holidays, and happy New Year.
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24/12/2025

Crown Confidence: Shining Bright with Masa 👑

Learning, Dreaming, and Acting Big at the Botswood Kiddies Master Class

On Monday, the 22nd of December, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the Botswood Kiddies Master Class held at the Nhabe Museum in Maun. It was truly an exciting and educational experience that I will always cherish.

The master class was designed for children between the ages of 6 and 12, which made it even more special for me because my younger brother also attended. Sharing this learning experience with him was meaningful, and it reminded me how important it is for children to grow, learn, and explore their talents together.

The session was very interesting and full of learning. We were taught important skills about acting, confidence, teamwork, and self-expression. One of the highlights of the day was when we were given a chance to come up with our own play as children. It was amazing to see how our ideas came together, teaching us that creativity grows when we work as a team.

I was also happy and honoured to be part of the auditioning team for a role in the play we formulated. Being involved in the audition process helped me understand more about acting, responsibility, and believing in myself.
Another exciting moment for me was meeting some of the Botswood team members whom I had only seen on television on the Botshelo Jo program. Meeting them in person reminded me that dreams can come true when we stay focused and work hard.

The moment that truly made my heart jump with joy was meeting my favorite actor, Tumelo Disang. I felt inspired and encouraged to keep pursuing my passion for acting and the arts.
Even though I am a beauty queen, I am always open to trying new things, learning new skills, and stepping outside my comfort zone. I believe that growth comes from exploring different opportunities and embracing every chance to learn.

I am grateful to Botswood for creating such a safe and empowering space for children to express themselves, discover their talents, and dream big.

With love,
Masa Maria Phodiso
International Queen | Writer | Founder of Hope-filled Projects

23/12/2025

Tuesday Motivation with Winnie Winani Mpala, editor in chief Colourful Chronicles Magazine

Merry Christmas, Colourful family.

I wish you a joyful Christmas and a hopeful New Year. This has been quite an eventful year, and through it all, my team has remained committed to keeping you informed, educated, and uplifted.

This season is traditionally a time of joy, goodwill, and reconnection with our faith, a time for family and friends to reunite and share warmth. Yet for some families, this is not the reality. The loss of family members, friends, and loved ones weighs heavily on their spirits. Empty chairs and empty beds echo louder than the loudest drum, reminding us of what once was.

For some of us, there may not be much to celebrate. Circumstances may not permit festivity or abundance. Yet having family, whether by blood or by bond, reminds us of what truly matters. Even in quiet seasons, love, togetherness, and shared strength are victories. When everything else feels uncertain, family becomes our shelter, our hope, and our reason to keep believing that better days will come.

We cannot stop it, but this season can be especially cruel to some. May God see us through the silent battles we fight, the ones we cannot put into words or share with anyone.

May our hearts go out to those who are disadvantaged. Let us share a smile, a hug, a word of encouragement, a meal, anything that can make someone’s festive season a little brighter.

He is the reason for the season, and as extensions of His love, let us embody that love to those within our sphere of contact.

Merry Christmas 🎄 🎄
Winani

Photo - Throwback ( with my library staff( Maria Manuel Othilia, Onalenna Bojosi - Nata SSS- 2019)

17/12/2025

Crown Confidence: Shining Bright with Masa 👑

Reigning with Purpose: Lessons Every Queen Must Remember

Being crowned a queen is a beautiful moment, but the real journey begins after the crown is placed on your head. Reigning is not just about wearing a sash, attending events, or taking pictures—it is about responsibility, character, and purpose.

As queens, we must remember that we are always being watched, especially by younger girls who dream of becoming like us one day. The way we speak, behave, dress, and treat others reflects not only who we are, but what our crown truly stands for. A true queen leads with humility, kindness, and respect.

Reigning also means using your platform wisely. Your voice matters. Speak for those who cannot speak for themselves. Support causes that bring change to your community. Whether it is helping other children, protecting the environment, or spreading messages of hope, every small action counts.

Discipline is another important lesson in reigning. Balancing school, family, pageantry, and personal growth is not always easy, but it teaches us time management and responsibility. A focused queen understands that education and good values will carry her further than any crown ever could.

Lastly, never forget why you started. Stay grounded, stay prayerful, and stay grateful. Crowns may change, but the impact you make in people’s lives will last forever.

To all my fellow queens: reign with love, lead with purpose, and shine not just on stage—but in everyday life.

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds.” — Matthew 5:16

With love,
Masa Maria Phodiso
International Queen | Writer | Founder of Hope-filled Projects

16/12/2025

Tuesday Motivation with Winnie Winani Mpala, editor in chief Colourful Chronicles Magazine

The Landmine of Compromise

What is a landmine, and how can compromise be likened to one? A landmine is a hidden danger, often buried beneath the surface, waiting to explode the moment it is stepped on. In much the same way, compromise often lies quietly within our daily choices, unnoticed and unchallenged, until the damage is already done.

Anything that tempts you to abandon what you know is right should be viewed as deadly and dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. Yet many people fail to recognize this. We make excuses and justifications, tell white lies, and convince ourselves that lowering our standards is harmless. We say things like, “One drink never hurt anyone,” or, “I will just hang out for three more hours beyond the time I set for myself.” We convince ourselves that a single choice will not matter, but it does. Every choice shapes the next one, and before long, the line we promised never to cross has been erased.

Compromise is not always loud or obvious. It happens deep within the heart and soul of a person. It often begins as a subtle drift, a small step away from truth, integrity, or discipline. Warning signs may be going off within us, but the person who is compromising rarely listens. Once the door to compromise is opened, it becomes easier for the enemy to move in and cause destruction. What began as a minor concession slowly turns into a pattern, and the consequences can be devastating.

Why do we compromise? Often, it is driven by fear and doubt, and by a deep need for acceptance. This is especially true for teenagers, who face immense peer pressure and a strong desire to belong. The fear of standing alone can feel heavier than the fear of being wrong. In those moments, compromise can seem like the easier, safer option, even though it carries long-term harm.

The danger of a wrong decision is that it dulls the conscience. Over time, actions that once felt wrong begin to feel normal. The inner voice that once warned and guided grows quiet, and with it, the ability to act wisely is weakened. Compromise does not just affect a moment, it reshapes character.

Therefore, remain vigilant. Guard your values, honour your convictions, and listen to the warnings within your spirit. Choose integrity, even when it is difficult, and courage, even when it costs you. Avoid the landmine of compromise, because what you protect today will preserve your purpose tomorrow.

Picture Source - Internet

15/12/2025

‎SHOULD THE DEADBEAT DAD LEFT TO LIE IN HOPELESS DEATHBED?
‎Well, just by listening, you can tell if a man is a deadbeat dad. He will be the one blaming his baby mama for everything, including why he's not around his children. He will be ranting on social media about how much he loves his kids and how much he misses them, but he isn't allowed access to them. And of course, some of his followers will be appalled, 'What kind of monster would block block a father from seeing his kids?'
‎Apparently, some people will fall for the cheap antics of this ruse.
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‎These are guys who only want to be parents when it is convenient for them. After the relationship candle dies off, usually acrimoniously, he distances himself from the mother of his kids. Consequently, he distances himself from his kids too. He rarely gets involved in his children's lives at all. He doesn't give a hoot about their daily well being.
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‎Since he cut communication with the mother of his kids, he doesn't know anything about the children's schedules and plans. Then out of the blue, when he literally has nothing better to do, he decides he should spend time with his kids. He calls and demands that she should hand over the kids and expects her to jump to his demands. He doesn't know and doesn't bother to ask how they're going on. He feels it's his right to spend time with his kids and believes she should drop whatever she has in her plans to accommodate his demands. Have you put yourself in her shoes?
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‎Well, let's say the woman is a bit diplomatic and understanding. She tells him if she wants to see the kids he should make prior arrangements and be more involved in their lives to know their plans and schedules.
‎When confronted to come up with a proper and healthy co- parenting structure, he's butthurt and runs to social media to whine about how he has been denied access to his kids. Then a flock get tickled in his support praising him for how he adores his kids.
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‎Such guys act as the father of the year on Instagram, but what you don't know is that he doesn't care about how his children are doing. He doesn't call. He doesn't send money. He doesn't visit them.
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‎Is it possible for these fathers to step up and be parents all the time?
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‎Editor
‎Colourful Chronicles
‎Leonard Maero W
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‎Picture source: internet
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12/12/2025

AUTHOR'S CORNER 🖋️

Fun Friday is here.

Today's word or expression is:

√ Laureation

Definition:
Laureation (noun) — The act of being honoured or celebrated for outstanding achievement, especially in academic, literary, or artistic fields. It signifies public recognition granted to an individual whose work has distinguished them above their peers.

Usage in a Sentence:
Dr Onkeme Letshwiti’s multiple wins at the African Christian Authors Book Awards marked a moment of remarkable laureation for both himself and the nation of Botswana.

Raising the Nation’s Flag: Dr Onkeme Letshwiti Shines at the African Christian Authors Book Awards

When a nation’s story is told, it is often through the voices of those who dare to write, reflect, and inspire. On 29 November 2025, at the African Christian Authors Book Awards (ACABA) in Kenya, Botswana’s literary landscape was illuminated by one such voice. Dr Onkeme Letshwiti, a seasoned author with a 15-year writing journey, rose above hundreds of entries from over 20 African countries to earn multiple distinguished honours. His achievements not only celebrate personal excellence but also place Botswana proudly on the continental map of Christian literature. What drives a writer to such heights? What message lies behind the ink of his success? This is the story of dedication, faith, and a vision far greater than self.

Botswana-based author Dr Onkeme Letshwiti earned top honours at the African Christian Authors Book Awards (ACABA) held recently in Kenya on 29 November 2025, marking a significant milestone in his 15-year literary journey. The prestigious gala brought together more than 300 authors from over 20 African countries, making Dr Letshwiti’s achievements a proud moment not only for him but also for Botswana on a continental platform.

His book "Fire in the Pulpit" emerged as the Award Winner in the Missions/Church Theology Category, recognising its rich contribution to homiletics and Christian leadership. The book also secured the position of Runners-Up for the highly esteemed "Book Content of the Year” award.

His second title, "Healing Through Truth", was named "First Runners-Up" in the same Missions/Church Theology Category and further distinguished itself by being selected among the "Top 33 Book Covers of the Year" out of more than 140 submissions.

In addition, his inspiring work "The Power of Faith-Filled Declarations" earned another accolade as "First Runners-Up" in the Christian Living Category, demonstrating his broad impact across multiple Christian writing disciplines.

Reflecting on the awards, Dr Letshwiti expressed deep gratitude. “I am so grateful to God for this milestone and achievement. All the glory to Him and Him alone,” he said.

He added that receiving the Missions award for "Fire in the Pulpit" reaffirmed his sense of calling to contribute meaningfully to Botswana and the wider African continent. “I knew that God was summoning me to take responsibility in the areas of missions, the church, ethics, and theology. This award testifies to my writing journey of over 15 years. It is an encouragement to me, my family, and the entire team at LP Publishers. God is faithful, and consistency truly pays off,” said a very thankful Dr Letshwiti.

He also extended heartfelt appreciation to everyone who supported his trip to Kenya through resources, prayers, and encouragement. “To everyone who contributed to making this trip possible, thank you. Your generosity and belief in this mission strengthened me, and I do not take it for granted,” he said.

Looking ahead, Dr Letshwiti revealed that a new book, addressing critical issues facing Africa, is already in development through LP Publishers in collaboration with publishing houses across the continent. The release is scheduled for 2026.

He further issued a call to national stakeholders, boldly saying, “I urge Botswana authorities, institutions, and stakeholders in the literary world to actively support and engage with local authors. Botswana has a wealth of talent, and with the right backing, our writers can continue raising the flag of our nation proudly on African and global platforms.”

To aspiring authors, he shared words of encouragement: “It is possible to be recognised when you discipline yourself to what God has called you to do. To those already labouring in the literary space, keep going. It will pay off; don’t give up.”

Dr Letshwiti extended special thanks to LP Publishers for their excellence in producing "Fire in the Pulpit", as well as to his wife Dineo Letshwiti, fellow Botswana authors Dr Daniel Matematema and Dr Peggy Lubinda, and their spouses for their steadfast support. He also acknowledged the founders and conveners of ACABA, Dr Muthoni Omukhango and Pastor Patrick Omukhango.

Dr Onkeme Letshwiti’s triumph at ACABA is more than a celebration of literary excellence. It is a stirring reminder that African voices, when rooted in purpose, faith, and perseverance, can echo far beyond their borders. His achievements urge Botswana to invest in its storytellers and inspire emerging authors to rise with courage and conviction.

Congratulations, sir🎉🎉🎉🏆🍾🥂

10/12/2025

Crown Confidence: Shining Bright with Masa 👑

Guarding the Innocent

What has become of our communities when the very place meant to shelter a child becomes a source of fear? Why should any child, whether biological or a step-child, suffer harm in a home that should cradle them with love and safety?

Lately, we have witnessed heartbreaking stories of step-parents harming or even taking the lives of innocent children. These tragedies shake us to the core and force us to confront a painful truth: a home, the one space that should guarantee peace, has failed far too many little ones.

Home should be a sanctuary, a place filled with love, laughter, and protection. No child should ever grow up feeling fear in the very space where they are meant to be nurtured. Every child deserves the same measure of care, respect, and security, regardless of their biological ties.

As a young ambassador, I believe in the inherent worth of every child. Their voices may be small, but their value is immeasurable. Parents, guardians, teachers, neighbors, and friends all share the responsibility of ensuring that children grow up in environments that celebrate their innocence rather than threaten it. When a child shows signs of distress, fear, or sadness, we must listen. When something seems wrong, we must act. When danger lurks in silence, we must speak up. After all, what is the cost of missing the signs? Sometimes, it is a life.

Protecting children is not just a duty, it is a calling. It requires compassion, vigilance, and the courage to intervene even when it feels uncomfortable. It demands that we choose empathy over indifference and action over silence.

Let us choose to protect, defend, and cherish every child. Let us be their voices when theirs tremble, their safe space when the world feels unsafe, and their advocates when they cannot speak for themselves. Together, we can rebuild a world where children feel loved, valued, and truly safe.

“Behold, children are a gift from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward.” Psalm 127:3

Every child matters. Every child deserves love. Every child deserves life. So, the question remains, if not us, then who will protect them? And if not now, then when? It is in our hands to rewrite the story, to restore safety in every home, and to pledge that never again will a child’s innocence be betrayed. Let us rise with purpose and guard the precious lives entrusted to us.

With love,
Masa Maria Phodiso
International Queen | Writer | Founder of Hope-filled Projects

Colourful Chronicles

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