Confiance Masse Francine and Issa Majaliwa Kabumbe

Confiance Masse Francine (15) and Issa Majaliwa Kabumbe (17), are from Democratic Republic of Congo. Growing up in eastern DR Congo amid armed conflict and displacement, Confiance and Issa know what it’s like to lose a safe place to call home. Forced to flee, they lived in camps where children faced fear, anger, and loss every day, with no safe space to play or simply be kids.

Together, they co-created Play4Peace Mobil, a child-led initiative using sport, games, and group activities to bring peace and healing to displaced children. They designed mixed-gender sports sessions so girls and boys could play together safely, challenging exclusion in the camps. After each game, they led sharing circles where children could talk about their fears and feel heard. They adapted activities for younger kids and those affected by trauma, making sure every child felt included.

The impact: girls now participate in games once closed to them, and children show more confidence and cooperation with peers from different backgrounds. Displaced children in camps and host communities in Uvira, South Kivu, have found safer spaces to play, express themselves, and heal — proving that children aren’t just victims of conflict, but powerful peacebuilders too.