Grandmothers in Colombia get the quinceañera they never had

In a heartwarming celebration of resilience and joy, 72-year-old Rosalba Casas and 28 other women finally experienced their long-awaited quinceañeras in Bogotá, Colombia. Organized by the Sueños Hechos (Dreams Come True) Foundation, the event brought together women aged 60 to 85 who had missed this cherished Latin American tradition due to childhood hardships. For many, it was their first time wearing formal gowns, professional makeup, or riding in a limousine. The festivities included a red carpet entrance, a waltz, and emotional moments as the women danced with family members and police officers. The foundation, founded by retired police officer Freddy Alfonso Páez, initially focused on underprivileged girls but expanded to older women to honor those who never had the chance to celebrate their 15th birthdays. The event, supported by sponsors and local police, highlighted the deep inequalities in Colombia, where 31% of the population lives in poverty. Despite health challenges, the women embraced the celebration with laughter and gratitude, making it a day to remember.