Thousands of young people have grown through experiences, community, and joy. On “Be Yourself” Day, Sunday, November 15, we’ll come together and inspire others to experience what makes our program so unique. From disaster to light. A celebration of life.
On Wednesday, April 27, 2005, a bolt from the blue struck our family. We were an ordinary family with three lovely, secure daughters in idyllic Bålsta. What should not have—and could not—happen, happened. That day, we lost our youngest daughter, Linda. It was a catastrophe that no one who hasn’t experienced it can truly understand. But we refused to be overwhelmed by grief; instead, we chose the path of light. On VVDS Day, November 15, we want to remember Linda and celebrate life. We demonstrate that light can defeat darkness. With joy and a zest for life, we want to show that it is possible. Life can turn around. A warm welcome to a day dedicated to light. Despite everything!
VVDS DAY – A Celebration of Life!!!
Love and faith in humanity can overcome anything. Song, music, community, and joy are forces that give strength and hope. Friendship and community are built by sharing life, experiences, and thoughts. The Våga Va’ Dig Själv Foundation has demonstrated this through its work for more than 20 years now. Thousands of young people have experienced this over the years. Throughout the day, we’ll share our approach. We’ll offer sparks of life, surprises, celebrities, thought leaders, food for thought, knowledge, inspiration, and hope for the future. You’ll meet fascinating people, experience empathy and wisdom, hear uplifting ideas, and enjoy music that makes your heart sing. Tickets here
WHAT HAPPENED?
Our youngest daughter had been subjected to bullying and sexual abuse at her school. After that, she was called a whore. On her last day alive, she was beaten and threatened with death. At 13, soon to be 14, she took her own life, just a few weeks before her birthday. How do you move on from something like that? Is it even possible? Our family’s solution was to start the Våga Va ́ Dig Själv Foundation!!! Instead of cursing the darkness, we chose to light a candle. If we can help another girl or boy avoid what Linda had to go through, we have succeeded. If we can help another family gain the knowledge and strength to understand what is required, we have succeeded.
HOW DO YOU MOVE ON FROM A DISASTER?
For years, our family talked a lot and often about the importance of showing pride and courage. At the breakfast table, at lunch, at dinner. We said, “Dare to be yourself—everyone else is already taken.” Yet things turned out the way they did. The disaster was a fact, but the family chose the path of light, starting a foundation that combats darkness and helps young people grow. The name of the foundation was a given. The “Dare to Be Yourself!!!” Foundation works through good examples and positive activities! Among other things, through camps where young people meet, thrive, and grow—through knowledge, experiences, community, and joy. Read more here
Hope to see you at Rival.
Warm regards, Arne and Lena Falkbäck with their daughters Sanna and Emelie, founders of the non-profit organization Stiftelsen Våga Va´ Dig Själv!!!
P.S. All proceeds will go directly toward developing the activities of the Våga Va’ Dig Själv Foundation. We cannot emphasize enough how grateful we are to all our fellow human beings, teachers, partners, leaders, board members, and friends who have supported us in big and small ways over the years. Thank you so much!!!
