If I Were the Minister of Christmas... - Elya: "I Would Require Every Mauritian to Perform an Act of Kindness Every Day"
At just 9 years old, Elya Ladkoo has a schedule that resembles that of a mini minister with a packed agenda. Between strategic family meetings, she is preparing for her "diplomatic mission" to Mumbai, where she will distribute gifts to underprivileged children using her own birthday money, not public funds, let's clarify!
Elya, if you were the Minister of Christmas, what would be your first law to make Mauritius happier?
My first law would be simple: every Mauritian must perform an act of kindness each day. Not a gift, not something bought, just a gesture that comes from the heart, like a smile, a sweet word, or a moment of listening. I truly believe that if everyone shines even a small light, Mauritius will become a magical island.
And maybe that magic will last all year, not just in December.
What would you change so that all children in Mauritius have a better Christmas?
For me, Christmas is not about the gifts we receive, but the bonds we create and the hearts we make happy. I would like every child to be able to give something, not to receive in return, but to understand that true happiness comes from making someone else happy. Even a small box filled with attention and love can teach a lot. Giving is already receiving...
One thing you would ban during the holidays?
(Exasperation) I dislike firecrackers that scare animals, and the injustices that hurt the most vulnerable. Christmas is not just a day; it's an attitude. A way of living. If I could ban something, it would be the loud firecrackers and fireworks that scare animals and pollute the air.
Instead, I would envision silent but bright celebrations where every light, every song, and every smile honors life. I believe Christmas should not be a noise that destroys, but a light that brightens the heart.
If you could give a magical gift to the whole island, what would it be?
Have you noticed how much money we spend on plastic toys that end up in the trash a few months later? If I could give a magical gift, it wouldn’t be something that comes in a box.
I would want to give the power to see each day as something special. That every smile, every ray of sunshine, every kind gesture is a treasure. And I would wish for everyone to choose eco-friendly gifts that respect the planet. The true magic is not in the decorations but in the joy and love we share.
If you could invite a celebrity to Mauritius for Christmas, who would it be?
(Laughter) I wouldn’t invite a celebrity. I would invite an ordinary yet brave child who shares their snacks, stands up for a friend, and cares for abandoned animals. We don’t talk enough about these silent heroes. There are plenty in Mauritius, like my three best friends – Clara, Jenna, and Mia – who show every day that a small gesture can brighten someone’s day.
Now, if I really have to choose an adult (sighs and laughter), it would be Leon Logothetis, the author of "Kindness Diaries." I adore him and follow him on Instagram. He travels the world with almost nothing, just faith in human goodness, and then gives back much more than he receives.
For Christmas, that’s the most beautiful message: the true magic is the heart, and even a child can offer it.