The Power of Parenting

Three different families. Three different stories. With one thing in common: Whatever a family’s situation, growing up feeling loved makes a critical difference in a child’s life.

Raising the next generation

In the northern outskirts of La Paz in Bolivia, many women face the challenge of raising children on their own in an environment marked by economic hardships and patriarchal traditions.

For Sandra, who studies law in the morning and designs shawls and dresses in the afternoon, balancing work and studies became even more challenging after the birth of her young daughter Nathaly, now 7 years old.

Becoming a single parent has meant a radical change in the life of Sandra. But she’s supported by her mother Margarita and grandmother Rosa. Together with Sandra and Nathaly they represent four generations of Cholitas. This is the name given to Aymara indigenous women from the Bolivian Andean region who wear traditional blankets, high top hats, and long voluminous skirts called polleras.

“I cherish every moment with my daughter, whether we’re painting or dancing. I want to share every experience with her, always ensuring she feels supported and happy.”  - Sandra, mother of Nathaly

She hopes that these moments of togetherness, love and learning will remain etched in Nathaly’s memory forever, shaping her into the strong woman she’s destined to become. 

Rebuilding a family

When a devastating earthquake hit Türkiye on 6 February 2023, 10-year-old Sidra and her family's life was changed forever.

As Sidra navigates life after the disaster and the death of her father and sister, her grandfather Hassan has stepped in as a pillar of strength and support.

After the earthquake, it wasn’t just Sidra who relied on Hassan and his wife, Semiha, for support. In the garden of their damaged home in Antakya, Hatay, Türkiye, the couple provided shelter to relatives in makeshift tents, becoming a source of emotional strength for the extended family.

“Our grandchildren are our source of strength. When we’re alone we feel sad, but when they’re with us, they give us energy and strength, they calm us.” - Hassan, grandfather of Sidra

Despite the ongoing challenges of life and memories of the disaster, Hassan’s unwavering support and steadfast presence offer the family hope. “I tell them that everything will be better in the future," he says.

 A safe place

In the face of their own mental health challenges, Eleanor, a journalist, and Robin, a major crimes detective, always knew parenting wouldn't be easy.

Eleanor, diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, has been living with these conditions since childhood. Meanwhile, Robin experiences Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder from his military service and years as a homicide detective.

Living in Kariega, Eastern Cape, in South Africa, their journey has included therapy for their own conditions and the loss of their first son to neonatal death. Aidan, 10, their bright and resilient young boy, has received therapy for his own anxiety and sensory challenges, showing remarkable progress along the way. 

“While parenting is tough, it’s the most rewarding job on earth.” - Eleanor, mother of Aidan

The family sees home as a sanctuary free from societal pressures and Aidan's father Robin is determined to break the cycle of toxic masculinity by encouraging emotional expression.

Source: UNICEF