Far from being just an extracurricular activity, the event presented a powerful emotional
and cultural experience. Anticipated by a short teaser video, YumaKids arrived with
*Behind the Door*, a play directly addressing child sexual abuse—a painful reality in
Colombia.
The lead actress, Carme Diaby—a survivor of sexual violence—performed alongside actor
Oscar Orbezo, turning the play into both an artistic interpretation and a personal testimony.
That morning, theatre became political: a way to break silence, raise awareness, and
activate collective memory and empathy.
The emotional impact was immediate. Theatre allows audiences to process hidden
emotions, recognize personal stories, and begin emotional healing—a process known as
catharsis. This is not just individual but social: by making the invisible visible, theatre
fosters empathy and symbolic healing.
Following the play, students engaged in a discussion, a creative theatre workshop, and
shared refreshments—emphasizing the communal nature of the experience.
One student shared: It was a wonderful morning... the joy and comfort of knowing someone
in the world will always listen and believe us. At YumaKids, we believe that active listening
and emotional support are foundational to a culture of care.
Mental health care for vulnerable youth is not only about treating symptoms. It requires
creating shared meaning, emotional expression, and safe spaces where each young person
can find value in their story.
This performance was supported by friends and donors through a Verkami crowdfunding
campaign, enabling the two Catalan actors to travel to Colombia and perform *Behind the
Door* in seven schools in Ibagué and Bogotá, reaching over 400 students and more than
100 adults.
