 There are literally thousands of little children here in Iquitos who troll the streets every day begging, selling souveniers, t-shirts, Chicklets gum or cleaning shoes. We all know that sometimes these children can be a bit of a nuisance, but if you take the time to get to know them you will find them to be "little characters". Please don’t hurt them. This month we would like to introduce you to Johyner Orlando Nanatupe. Johyner is only 8 years old and lives in the port of Bella Vista Nanay. He is on the street everyday selling palm fans and jewellery made out of seeds that his Mother makes. Johyner earns about 10 soles ($3.42) a day and this money goes to help feed his family. Johyner goes to school when he can, but likes to paint if he has some paper. He has never been to a dentist as you can see and has only had one vaccination in his life. When he grows up he wants to be a doctor. If you happen to meet Johyner in the street and you see his incredible smile, please don't push him away like a stray dog but perhaps buy a bracelet from him and remember this. "There but for the good grace of God go I". |