How art helps children reimagine safer communities

In a country increasingly threatened by climate change and disasters, education on resilience must begin early—and sometimes, the best classroom is one filled with color, and imagination.

Last Aug. 30, the Nicanor Reyes Memorial Foundation (NRMF), in partnership with the Harvard Club of the Philippines Global, and the AHA Learning Center, held “Project Art for YOUth: Building Disaster Resilience for Safer Communities” in Makati.

The program brought together 30 children from areas vulnerable to disasters, immersing them to explore the meaning of resilience through storytelling, art, and interactive games. Activities such as Bata, Bahay, Bagyo and the story of Tala the Sky Warrior inspired the participants to reimagine stronger, safer communities for themselves.

Their work served as a powerful reminder that while children are often most vulnerable in crises, they are also powerful agents of change and resilience when given a platform to voice their ideas.

Through the “Paint Your Dream Community” and “Show Your Dream Community” workshops, the young participants translated their learning into vivid artwork—painting homes on higher ground, community gardens, and safe spaces where people work together in times of need. These creative expressions became symbols of both awareness and hope.

“I was very surprised with the depth of responses coming from the children. They expressed concern for others and reflected on the impacts of the climate crisis. Many even emphasized the importance of helping other children who don’t have access to art,” said Desiree Bañares, one of the facilitators.

“Helping others doesn’t always mean doing something big. Sometimes, even small acts like talking or interacting with the children make a huge difference. What feels like a little act can actually be a big step in helping the community,” said Xairwen Gupo, a volunteer.

According to NRMF, this initiative reinforces its commitment to empower communities through education and collaboration. By combining global service ideals with local action, the project showcased how creative learning can spark real change—one story, one drawing, and one child at a time.