What did the Clowns do?
Clowns Without Borders UK responded immediately and has been collaborating with local artists to bring joy, play, and laughter to children in these communities.
Play as a Lifeline: Our Approach
Our vibrant shows drew huge crowds, kicking off with an energetic, music-filled parade that instantly grabbed everyone’s attention. With the help of stilt walkers, we made a grand entrance, ensuring that everyone felt included and eager to be part of the fun.
Play-Aware Responders: Training & NGO Partnerships
We trained staff and volunteers to support children’s awareness of Menstrual Health Management (MHM) through games, stories, and songs. We developed and facilitated remote training sessions for local women, who would deliver the sessions.
The aim was to empower the trainers to use laughter, storytelling and games to engage the young women on this sensitive subject because humour and playfulness, when used appropriately, can help reduce embarrassment, secrecy and shame. It also helps to build trust. Find out more.
“The children and young people really enjoyed the games—and I even learned a new joke from them!” – Workshop participant
Impact: The Power of Play
Our work is a reminder of every child’s right to play, especially in communities where joy has been lost due to crisis. By inspiring humanitarian staff to incorporate play into their programmes, we create lasting change that extends far beyond our performances.
- Shared joy with 8518 children
- Trained 92 frontline staff and strengthened local capacity with creative storytelling techniques
- 85% of participants of our training reported that our activities increased children’s attendance and engagement.
Our Learnings
- Play is a powerful tool for engagement. Children respond more enthusiastically to storytelling and games, making education more effective.
- Humanitarian workers benefit from creative methods. Training staff in play-based approaches improves their ability to connect with children.
- Laughter builds trust. By creating safe, joyful spaces, we encourage children and families to open up about their experiences.
“In Beira and Cabo Delgado in Mozambique, when the CWB team arrived, children and adults often had sombre expressions. But as soon as the CWB performers started to play and engage with them, the faces of the people would light up with joy. It’s always incredible to see the transformative power of laughter and play.”- Ernesto Langa, CWB artist based in Mozambique, read his interview.
Thank You
This work would not have been possible without the support of Clowner utan Gränser, the fantastic local artists, and of course, for each and one of you. Together, we continue to spread joy where it’s needed most. Get in touch if you want to be a part of the journey.