Rebuilding hope for children through play.

CONNECT July 2026

In times of crisis, play can be the first step towards healing. This is Gleidys, and next to her is her three-year-old son, Donis. Both were affected by the earthquakes in Venezuela on 24 June and are currently living temporarily in a makeshift shelter camp.  

To help Donis heal and recover from the disaster, Gleidys takes him to the child-friendly spaces that UNICEF and its partners have set up in the area. In every activity, Gleidys joins him, building with blocks and sharing moments that give her son the security and support he so desperately needs right now.   

Deeply grateful for the initiative, Gleidys sees this space as a safe haven where they can spend quality time together and heal as a family. Thanks to you, UNICEF is on the ground, working to reach children like Donis and their families with lifesaving support while helping communities recover, no matter what.  

In this month’s issue: 

• Discover the different classrooms of the world 

• Help young people be good friends online

• Champion youth voices in Fiji 

• Walk for a cause with UNICEF Australia 

As always, thank you for reading – I hope these stories inspire and move you.   

Classrooms around the world in pictures

Every child has the right to an education – no matter who they are or where they live.   
 
When children step into a classroom, they enter a world of opportunity and support. Not every classroom looks the same, but each one offers children a chance to learn, grow and become their best selves. These photos from around the world show that classrooms can be life-changing, even amid the many challenges children face.

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How to be a good friend online

With International Day of Friendship coming up on 31 July, it’s a reminder that kindness, respect and empathy matter both online and offline. Whether young people are chatting with friends from school or connecting with others through games and shared interests, positive online friendships can help create safer and more supportive digital spaces. 

Here are five simple tips to help children and young people be good friends online and build meaningful connections wherever they are.

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Calling all young voices 

Children and young people are disproportionately affected by climate change and have proven to be catalysts for climate solutions. Yet their voices and perspectives remain largely invisible when it comes to climate policymaking. 

This is why the Pre-COP 31 Australia-Pacific Youth Dialogue is bringing young climate leaders together in Fiji. If you know a young person who is passionate about climate change and creating impact, share this exciting opportunity with them.

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Ready to challenge yourself like never before?

UNICEF’s Dusk to Dawn is back on 21 November 2026! Take on an unforgettable 42km overnight walk across Sydney, from North Sydney to Bondi, all while raising funds to help children impacted by emergencies. 

Register now and you'll enjoy: 
🌙  60% off registration for a limited time 
🌉  An unforgettable overnight walk across Sydney, including crossing the Harbour Bridge after dark 
🎁  Exclusive fundraising rewards as you reach key milestones 
💙  The chance to make a real difference for children facing conflict, disasters and other emergencies 

Every step you take and every dollar you raise helps UNICEF deliver lifesaving support, including access to clean water, medical supplies, nutrition and protection, to children who need it most.

REGISTER NOW >>