DUNIA FELICES RECEIVES SYMBOLIC TRIBUTE AT KULLAY SCHOOL

Fifteen children eagerly awaited Lima 2019 Ambassador, Dunia Felices.  The young students at Centro Educativo Especializado Kullay school, dressed in the Peruvian flag colors, prepared a special medal for her and drawings of her, which decorated the classroom.

When she entered, the children shouted her name in unison and applauded her. “It's been very motivating for me to receive this recognition from Kullay’s schoolchildren. Here they work with children diagnosed with different conditions, but what I'll take with me today is the love and desire they put into life,” Dunia said.

“They have made me a medal with a K for Kullay, which means love, and I see myself sitting without any restrictions, with my stumps, next to the swimming pool. I never imagined I'd be welcomed like this; they used art, painting and I'm so touched by this,” she said.

One of the most significant moments was when Dunia introduced Milco, Lima 2019 official mascot. “They knew who Milco was, who Dunia was, and I feel very proud of it, because as an Ambassador it was my duty to carry the spirit of the Games. That is the great legacy that Lima 2019 leaves in the hearts of all Peruvians,” she stressed.   

School Principal Viviana Salvador could not conceal her joy at having Dunia and Milco, who spread joy among the children who, in turn, learned a lot about the Pan American and Parapan American Games. “They love Milco; he's a character that has earned a place in the heart of all Peruvians. Our kids have difficulties, so Dunia's presence is a motivation for them to work hard, push forward and keep going. They leave us with a great lesson about life, courage and never giving up,” she said.

Dunia recently participated in the World Swimming Championship in London. “It's a difficult and long path, but Lima 2019 has been my biggest motivation to aim for the Paralympic Games and I will work toward that goal,” concluded the Lima 2019 Ambassador.