For centuries, Mongolians recorded their history in oral epics, until writing was introduced nearly 800 years ago.

But the singing continues into 21st-century Mongolia (also known as the “Land of the Blue Sky”) as the members of the eponymous “Children of the Blue Sky” choir are reconnecting with their roots, discovering their very own voice and looking to the future with hope – hope made possible because of your wonderful support of World Vision New Zealand’s Children in Crisis (CIC) programme.

Together, we are reaching out

Mongolia has a population of 2.6 million and is home to hospitable and gracious people. Sadly, the warm heart of Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, and other regions has a dark underbelly: the many children and young people who beg on the streets and sleep in underground heating tunnels, because of poverty, a difficult home life or numerous other challenges.

To support and empower these vulnerable children, World Vision started the Child Development and Protection programme in 2008. The programme will run until 2012 in two districts in Ulaanbaatar and also in the provinces of Selenge, Arkhangai and Khenti.

One of the programme’s focus points is the Child Participation Project, which saw the establishment of the 36-member “Children of the Blue Sky” choir. The choir has already released much-acclaimed CDs, and toured the United Kingdom, Korea, Hong Kong and India.

Springboard to greater heights

For older youth the choir has proved an invaluable springboard to greater heights. Star soloist, 18-year-old Uranzaya, one of several former members, now attends a cultural college to develop further her stunning voice. She hopes to become a professional singer. It is hard to reconcile this confident young woman with the frightened girl who, seven years ago, was found homeless on the streets of Ulaanbaatar.

Another choir member, 16-year-old Bataa, never knew his father. Bataa was only 7 years old when his struggling mother left him and his younger brother at a welfare centre in their village. Unhappy and desperate, Bataa left for Ulaanbaatar, but was soon living and begging on the streets.

In March 2006, Bataa joined the “Children of the Blue Sky” choir and is now also studying at an informal education centre. He says he is the “happiest person on earth” when he sings. Bataa is determined to continue his studies at the music college of Mongolia’s Military University, specialising in the trumpet.  He also hopes to be reunited with his family.

Munkhsaikhan Dorjbat, programme manager of World Vision Mongolia, says: “We all believe Bataa will become a famous musician in the future and we are really proud of him.”