Zee News India (19 June 2013)
New Delhi: Jackie Chan, martial art expert and one of Asian cinema`s most prominent faces, Wednesday encouraged the children at the Smile Foundation saying that if they work together, they can achieve their dreams one day “like I did”.
He visited Mission Education programme centres of Smile Foundation and interacted with children and gave martial art tips to young girls.
Talking to the children, the ‘Rush Hour’ star, who himself had a difficult childhood, said: “You should study together, play together and dream together. You will definitely achieve your dreams one day like I did.”
“I believe the beauty of a country lies in its people, especially its children. Education to these kids is what we all wish for and it is our responsibility to get our future generation to be well-educated and well-equipped to lead a dignified life. I would like to congratulate Smile Foundation for doing commendable job in building the generation next,” he added.
They children presented a dance acts for Chan who also shook a leg with them.
Chan also emphasized on the role of self-defense for girls and young women and explained few self-defence techniques for young women of Smile Foundation and insisted on building self-confidence and self esteem.
Smile Foundation has so far trained 150,000 young women on self-defense and empowerment skills through its women empowerment programme – Swabhiman.
Vikram Singh Verma, COO, Smile Foundation said: “On behalf of Smile Foundation I would like to thank Mr. Jackie Chan for supporting our cause and encouraging the children.”
He added: “I would also like to thank India China Economic and Cultural Council for facilitating Mr. Chan`s visit here and making a dream come true of our little kids.”