They come from an impoverished continent, where many have lost their parents to war, famine and disease.
But their message is one of hope and inspiration - and they're travelling the world to make a brighter future for their own homeland.
The African Children's Choir is coming to Burnaby for a performance at the Central Christian Assembly on Friday, July 18.
The choir is made up of children aged seven through 10, who come from orphaned or vulnerable backgrounds.
They tour the world to raise funds for Music for Life, the parent organization of the choir, which works in seven African countries: Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Sudan, Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa.
Over its 30-year history, Music for Life has educated more than 52,000 children and helped more than 100,000 people through its relief and development programs.
The choir has sung in thousands of performances around the world, with illustrious audiences that include presidents, heads of state and royalty.
"The children melt the hearts of audiences with their charming smiles and delightful African tunes, accompanied by ethnic instrumentation," says a write-up about the choir. "The program features well-loved children's songs, hand clapping, traditional spirituals and contemporary tunes. Nearly every performance is concluded with a thunderous standing ovation."
The write-up notes that the choir inspires its audiences with their music and spirit.
"In spite of the tragedy that has marred their young lives, the children are radiant with hope, musically gifted and wonderfully entertaining," it says.
The choir's Burnaby concert is set to start at 7 p.m., and the church is at 5855 Imperial St.
Call 604-433-2324 for more details.
You can find out more about the choir at www.africanchildrenschoir.com.
