Cavite, Philippines - Kesz Valdez, 13, an abused child and street beggar, along with two other teenagers has been nominated for the prestigious International Children’s Peace Prize 2012.
Kesz Valdez was abused and forced to beg and scavenge in several dump sites at the age of 2. Three years later, he sustained burns on his arm and back, which prompted him to run away. Later, he found his new home in Dynamic Teen Company, an organization composed of young civic-minded volunteers led by 2009 CNN Hero of the Year awardee Efren Peñaflorida.
From being an abused child and street beggar, Kesz went on Championing Community Children. Kesz Valdez and the group of young volunteers use some extra money they earn from selling candies to buy toys, treats, hygiene kits and slippers for poor children in their community. The organization gave hope to children and showed them how they can take their future into their own hands. So far, Valdez has helped over 10,000 children.
Dutch organization KidsRights is an award giving body that recognizes young advocates of children’s welfare. KidsRights launched the International Children’s Peace Prize in 2005 in Rome. The prize, which has quickly become the ultimate international recognition for advocates of children’s rights, is being awarded for the eighth time this year.
