The President of the Republic, Dr. Patrick Herminie, accompanied by First Lady Mrs. Véronique Herminie, and daughter, Dr. Vanessa Herminie yesterday hosted the annual State House Christmas celebration for children from care homes across the country. The traditional event is held each year to spread festive cheer and to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to unity, compassion, and the well-being of its most vulnerable children during the Christmas season.
The celebration brought together over 60 children from various care institutions, including President’s Village, Foyer de la Solitude, Foyer de Nazareth, and Foyer de la Providence. The children were accompanied by their home mothers and caregivers, whose dedication and continued support play an essential role in nurturing and safeguarding the children under their care.
Also in attendance were the Vice-President, Mr. Sebastien Pillay, and members of his family.
The programme commenced with a series of creative and craft activities, allowing the children to express themselves in a joyful and festive environment. Throughout the afternoon, the First Lady engaged warmly with the children, sharing moments that reflected the spirit of togetherness and care that the season embodies.
The celebrations continued with a festive dinner held in the 'Salon d'Accueil', where the evening was filled with joy and cheer through Christmas carol performances by youth from the Seychelles National Youth Council (SNYC). Adding to the festive spirit, each child received a special Christmas gift from Santa to take home, bringing smiles and lasting memories.
As a token of appreciation, the children presented President Herminie with a heartfelt tableau created using their fingerprints.
The event was attended by several invited guests, including the Minister for Family Affairs, Mrs. Pamela Charlette; the Minister for Youth and Sports, Ms. Kalsey Belle; the Secretary of State for Social Affairs, Mrs. Linda William-Melanie; Principal Secretaries and advisors from the ministries; the Seychelles’ Ambassador for Women and Children; and the Chairperson of the National Council for Children (NCC), Dr. Erna Athanasius, and the Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Mrs. Yasmin Umarji.