Intercontinental Trust Ltd (ITL), through the ITL Foundation, treated the children of SAFIRE (Service d’Accompagnement, de Formation, d’Insertion et de Réhabilitation de l’Enfant) to a warm and unforgettable Christmas celebration, filled with carols, creative workshops, a piñata, a shared lunch and the distribution of gifts. With smiles, surprises and heartfelt moments throughout the day, the event served as a reminder of what matters most: joy grows when it is shared.

Held on Friday 19 December, the gathering began with a welcome message from members of the Foundation, before the festive spirit truly came alive with Christmas carols performed by ITL employees. The children’s boundless energy quickly filled the room during the game “Santa Says", a festive twist on “Simon Says". Lively, upbeat and engaging, the activity was above all… full of good cheer!

Creativity then took centre stage during an arts-and-crafts workshop. The children made cheerful Santa faces using paper plates, card and cotton wool. Curious and focused, they joined in enthusiastically, proud of what they created.

One of the day’s highlights was undoubtedly the sweet-filled piñata – a joyful burst of laughter and excited cheers, in a whirlwind of treats and festive fun.

The Foundation then provided lunch, giving everyone the chance to recharge before the most anticipated moment: the gift distribution, welcomed with eager smiles and shining eyes. To extend the joy beyond the event itself, the Foundation also donated a sack of gifts to SAFIRE, including group games so that the children can continue enjoying them together long after the day.

The celebration ended on a distinctly Mauritian note, with the children performing a séga dance, bringing the day to a close with one final burst of happiness.

“Christmas is at its most meaningful when we come together to give and create smiles. Sharing a moment of joy with the children of SAFIRE also means celebrating their energy and their ability to brighten those around them. At the ITL Foundation, we believe that solidarity is expressed through simple, sincere gestures, and this day reminds us how much attention and presence can truly make a difference," said Françoise Chan of the ITL Foundation.

Founded in 2006, SAFIRE is an NGO dedicated to the rehabilitation and social reintegration of children in street situations. Guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the organisation implements projects tailored to the specific needs of these vulnerable young people, while also undertaking advocacy work with authorities to strengthen the protection of their rights.

Over the years, the ITL Foundation has continued to support SAFIRE through donations of equipment, financial assistance and solidarity initiatives led with its volunteers.