Hundreds of disabled children sing and dance along with favourite artists | Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)

Pakistan Press Foundation

Hundreds of disabled children sing and dance along with favourite artists

Karachi: By 10am on Wednesday, the ground at the PAF museum was almost full but children kept coming in long queues ushered by their teachers. As they disembarked from the buses, their faces lit up because they could clearly hear the roar of the loudspeaker from here.

Phasing and playfully nagging each other, under the stern glances of their teachers, they reach the tent to become a part of thousands sitting on chairs and the ground. It was the 12th annual ‘Children’s Benefit Concert’ organised by Family Educational Services Foundation (FESF). This year 4,500 underprivileged children with special needs from 60 institutions and schools in the city were present.

The foundation organises the event annually to provide a “memorable experience for children who do not otherwise have such opportunities”. It also creates an inclusive situation as children who are “differently abled” can mingle with other kids.

The event began with Faizan Haqquee, the concert compere, informing the audience that special guest artists would perform, yet their identity would be a secret until they came on stage, keeping the children in eager anticipation to see who it would be.

The three-hour concert began with the international show team, HeartBeat!, who had the crowd moving with their lively English and local language numbers. Then Salim Javed took the stage. No one sat still as he sang his famous numbers and energized the children. Salim Javed sang his classic bhangra pops which brought the children to their feet, dancing to his famous tracks. The children, who sat on the front, were all jumping with their arms raised in the air – performing bhangra. Faakhir and his live band closed the show by singing his hit songs and mixing with the children.

Over 100 volunteers from local schools, colleges and universities worked alongside the FESF staff to serve the children with complimentary snacks, drinks and ice cream during the concert. Upon leaving, each child received a gift bag full of a variety of stationery, food and household items.

The FESF is a non-profit, educational and volunteer organization, carrying out its services in Pakistan since 1984. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life for all members of the community, especially those who are disadvantaged.

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