"If I Were the Minister of Christmas..." - Leandro Celestin, 16: "I Would Ban Disputes"

"If I Were the Minister of Christmas..." - Leandro Celestin, 16: "I Would Ban Disputes"

Living in the village of La Gaulette, 16-year-old Leandro Celestin attends the Joie de vivre workshop of the ANFEN (Adolescent Non Formal Education Network) in Chemin-Grenier. Here is his vision for a brighter Christmas for everyone.

If you were the Minister of Christmas, what would be your first law to make Mauritius happier?

If I were the Minister of Christmas, I would create the Mauritian Santa Claus law: every year, all children would be entitled to a gift from our local Santa Claus. A true moment of magic to light up their eyes with joy.

What would you change to ensure all children in Mauritius have a better Christmas?

I would change the mindset of some Mauritians, their way of being. With more kindness and respect, children would be happier, and adults would be too. Christmas is primarily a state of mind.

One thing you would ban during the holidays?

I would ban disputes. No fights, no tensions. Just a peaceful Christmas where everyone enjoys a wonderful time together.

To conclude, if you could give a magical gift to the entire island, what would it be?

I would build a huge amusement park, free for all Mauritians. A place where everyone could have fun, laugh, and forget their worries for a day.