At 72 years old, Rosalba Casas celebrated a milestone she had long dreamed of: her quinceañera. On March 15, 2024, she donned a flowing pink dress and a sparkling tiara, marking her 15th birthday in a heartfelt celebration organized by the Sueños Hechos Foundation in Bogotá, Colombia. This event was not just a party; it was a symbolic recognition of the struggles many older women faced in their youth, where such celebrations were often unattainable.
Casas described her joy, stating, “This is the happiest day because I’m celebrating my 15th birthday.” For the first time, she experienced professional makeup and rode in a limousine, joining 28 other women chosen for this unique occasion. The Sueños Hechos Foundation aims to fulfill the dreams of those who missed out on traditional quinceañera celebrations, particularly due to economic hardship.
Emotional Celebrations for Women in Their Golden Years
Quinceañeras hold deep cultural significance in Latin America, representing a girl’s transition into womanhood at the age of 15. However, for many in Colombia, especially older generations, financial barriers prevented such celebrations. The 29 women who participated in this event, primarily grandmothers, had faced similar hardships, often prioritizing work or family needs over personal milestones.
Casas reflected on her past, noting that on her 15th birthday, she received no acknowledgment as she worked as a domestic employee. Similarly, María Isabel Carmona, aged 71, recalled a modest breakfast of hot chocolate and fried eggs as her only celebration, saying, “There was no way to celebrate.” These shared stories highlight the economic disparities in Colombia, where 31% of the population lives in poverty, according to government estimates.
The celebration began with the women riding in a limousine through the streets of northwestern Bogotá, excitedly waving at onlookers. “I’d only seen them in pictures, but I never imagined I’d be in one,” Casas said, expressing her delight. The women arrived at a community hall adorned for the occasion, greeted by an honor guard of police officers.
A Foundation for Dreams and Memories
Founded by Freddy Alfonso Páez and his brothers, the Sueños Hechos Foundation has been dedicated to celebrating underprivileged girls’ quinceañeras since its inception five years ago. Recognizing that many older women also missed this rite of passage, the foundation expanded its mission to include them. To date, the foundation has organized celebrations for 128 older women, providing them with the experience they never had.
The annual event relies on sponsors for support, covering costs for transportation, food, and dresses. Police officers volunteer their time to escort the women, ensuring a festive and safe environment. Páez noted, “Many have different health conditions — diabetes, heart issues — but when the party begins, they forget all that and just enjoy themselves.”
As the festivities unfolded, the women exchanged their formal shoes for comfortable sneakers and danced the waltz with police officers, husbands, and family members. The emotional atmosphere was palpable, with a sentimental quinceañera song playing in the background that expressed the bittersweet nature of growing up.
The celebration on March 15 was not just a party; it was a powerful reminder of the resilience and joy found in community, especially for those who have faced significant challenges throughout their lives. For these grandmothers, the day was a fulfillment of dreams long deferred, encapsulating the essence of hope and celebration.
