Children are also searching for who they truly are. Khamoro Kher helps them find their way

Who am I and where do I actually belong? These are just some of the questions asked by Romani children growing up in children's homes. As part of the Khamoro festival, we have once again implemented a unique program Khamoro Kher, which helps these children discover their Romani identity. The three-day stay provided them with a safe space to learn about themselves, their roots, and their cultural heritage.

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It is estimated that more than 60% of children in children's homes in the Czech Republic today are of Romani origin. These children often lose contact with their culture, traditions, and positive role models, which negatively affects their mental health, self-esteem, and motivation to study. Their view of their own identity is often shaped by the prejudices of a society in which anti-Gypsyism unfortunately still persists.

That is why the Khamoro Kher program was created, allowing Romani children from children's homes to experience the largest Romani festival in the world and thus get to know their cultural identity. Through experiences at cultural events, we show children that they have something to be proud of—and that they belong somewhere.

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This year's edition, which took place from May 29 to May 31, 2025, in Prague, was attended by ten children aged 12–15 from children's homes in Potštejn and Česká Kamenice. The children were guided through the packed program by Robert Tonelli and Petr Čuleja, who both grew up in children's homes themselves and are now successful members of the Romani community. By their own example, they showed the children that the past does not have to determine the future.

The Khamoro Kher program prepared the following for the children:

• A lecture by historian and Romani studies expert Michal Mižigár on Romani history and traditions, which sparked their interest in their own cultural roots.
• A cooking class with Marcela Surmajová, who introduced the children to Romani cuisine. Under her guidance, they prepared traditional Romani dishes themselves, such as pišota or holubky.
• Dance workshop with Nikolas Petik, who taught the children the basics of the czardas and shared the significance of dance in Romani culture. Beyond the joy of movement, the children gained new insights into cultural traditions.

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In addition to workshops, lectures, and cultural events, a key element of Khamoro Kher is meeting successful Roma—students and professionals who showed the children that it is possible to succeed despite a difficult start in life. Through their personal stories, they inspired the children and strengthened their belief in their own potential.

To conclude, the children took part in the traditional Defilé (a parade through the center of Prague) and the Khamoro festival gala evening. We believe they returned home with hearts full of experiences, new knowledge, and a step closer to discovering themselves.

The Khamoro Kher program was financially supported by the Tereza Maxová Foundation for Children and the Committee of Good Will – Olga Havel Foundation. Thank you!

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