Yino Diaz - Founder Niños del Futuro
My name is Yino Diaz, born and raised in The Netherlands. Surrounded by many cultures and backgrounds, growing up in challenging neighborhoods had its beautiful side, but definitely a dark side. While coming up as a kid with a lot of anger and misunderstandings by society, I was often confronted with the temptations of making poor choices. This made me quit school at a young age while social projects and authorities tried their best to make something of it, I had to hit rock bottom for my life lessons.
However, I came to realize that what I truly needed was LOVE.
In 2019, I made the decision to move to Colombia to reconnect with my roots and discover my true self. It was there that I founded the Niños del Futuro project a year later. What began as a small initiative to organize engaging activities for children in vulnerable neighborhoods evolved into a registered foundation focused on enhancing the mental well-being and development of children living in poverty.
Through this journey, I not only witnessed significant changes in the lives of the children we served but also experienced my own personal growth and transformation. In a life marked by personal struggles, therapies, and engagement in social projects, I've come to a profound realization: every experience has shaped my ability to connect deeply with people and children in a way I always desired as a child myself.
Denise Faas - Board president
My name is Denise Faas
When Toon told me, 'I'm going to volunteer at a barber project in Colombia,' I immediately felt compelled to join him!
Passing on my profession to children who are genuinely motivated to build a better future, and doing it all in Spanish, felt like the perfect fit.
After an intensive and memorable week of working with Yino at Niños del Futuro, I knew I wanted to continue contributing to this foundation because it was about so much more than just teaching! I had the opportunity to connect with the children, each one with their own unique story, and one by one, they touched my heart. I've decided to make it my life's mission to help these children and many more like them.
I've come to realize that Niños del Futuro is not just a foundation; it's a big family, and I feel incredibly grateful to be a part of it. Providing a safe haven for these children, where they can truly be themselves, receive love, and also contribute to a brighter future, is incredibly rewarding. We're here in this world to support one another, and this is just the beginning!
Toon Jumelet - Board secretary
My name is Toon Jumelet, and I am 26 years old.
I had been following Niños Del Futuro on Instagram for a while through a friend of mine. I became increasingly interested in the projects and how everything worked. One impulsive afternoon, I decided to contact Yino, and we immediately made plans for me to come over and help with the barber project.
Working at Niños Del Futuro gives me a lot of motivation and inspiration. Working with youth and looking toward the future is incredibly fulfilling. The atmosphere at Niños Del Futuro is very pleasant and provides a stable and safe platform for children to become who they want to be.
Britt van Dixhoorn - Board treasurer
My name is Britt, I'm 29 years old, and I'm from The Hague, the Netherlands.
In November 2022, I was on vacation in Medellín when I first encountered Yino and, consequently, the Niños del Futuro foundation.
He spoke passionately about the foundation and the projects he carries out with the children in La Honda. Two days later, I accompanied him to the neighborhood. The children welcomed me with hugs and showed me around their neighborhood, as well as the projects they were involved in.
The energy exuded by the children and their care for each other, even in challenging circumstances, deeply moved me and inspired me to contribute to this foundation. Together with Shannon, we organized a campaign to raise funds for Christmas packages to distribute to children in the neighborhood, ensuring they received the extra attention and love they deserve during the holidays. This initiative was followed by my involvement in various projects, including the Happy Nappers project.
Back in the Netherlands, I've been working for nearly six years at an organization dedicated to helping children and young people with psychological issues. My passion has always been in assisting and contributing to a better future for children. Niños del Futuro reaffirmed for me that children worldwide could benefit from this assistance, and it's for this reason that I'm proud to be part of the Niños del Futuro community!
Shannon de vette - Board member
MAKE AN IMPACT!
Your support plays a powerful role in our lifesaving work. We are grateful for the compassion you demonstrate through your loyal commitment to our kids in our projects!