Teen inspires CNN heroes

MANILA, Philippines - The inspiring journey of a 13-year-old Filipino boy who went from being a beggar in the streets to a founder of an organization that cares for children moved audiences that included three CNN Heroes winners — Robin Lim, (2011), Anuradha Koirala, (2010) Efren Peñaflorida, (2009) and some past honorees during the recent Wadah Global Gathering 2012 entitled “Stomp for Change” in Bali, Indonesia.

Kesz Valdez of the People’s Organization Club 8586, Inc. joined individuals and organizations working for causes such as women empowerment, literacy, poverty reduction, and the fight against human trafficking in an international gathering of social change advocates.

The young hero shared how volunteerism saved him from an abusive childhood and helped him reach out to underprivileged kids like himself.

Kesz, who despite his traumatic past chose a life of helping others, founded the Caring Children Club, a group of young volunteers who use the extra money they earn from selling candies to buy toys, food and slippers for poor children in their community.

“Although this little hero experienced hardships and abuse, he still has such a beautiful and untainted heart. He should set an example to a lot of people who want to act for change but are easily overwhelmed by the huge amount of work that still need to be done,” said Wadah Foundation founder Anie Djojohadikusumo.

After he got into an accident at the age of five, Kesz’s future mentors from Club 8586 decided to take him under their wing. With the guidance of his mentors, Efren Peñaflorida of DTC and KB Manalaysay of Club 8586, Kesz continues to be a stellar example of what unconditional love and service should be.

A Grade 6 honor student, Kesz has already accomplished several philanthropic projects, which includes collecting toys and food supplies for the victims of typhoons “Ondoy” and “Sendong,” raising money to help in the hospitalization of a teacher’s mother, and teaching kids to look after their own hygiene through the “Clinique” pushcart and I Love UR Smile campaign.

During the Wadah Gathering, CNN Heroes past honorees and other international heroes in the panel were asked whether they ever felt like giving up on their advocacies. While all of them answered yes, the young Kesz replied, “I won’t give up!” He continued, “God will give me strength and wisdom to make good decisions and continue to help others.” 

Kesz’s steadfast and honest answer earned him a standing ovation and the respect and admiration of everyone in the summit.