A foundation which encourages children to enjoy dance has been launched in loving memory of Alice Da Silva Aguiar, who was among the girls tragically killed in the Southport tragedy last summer.
Alice’s WonderDance has been inspired by the nine-year-old former Churchtown Primary School pupil to “spread the same energy, magic and love that Alice brought to every space she danced in”.
It has been set up by her family, including proud Mum and Dad Alex and Sergio Aguiar.
The family has already been instrumental in the campaign to create a brand new playground in memory of the girls at Churchtown Primary School in Southport.
Sergio ran the London Marathon in April alongside Churchtown Primary School headteacher Jinnie Payne, raising over £350,000 for their appeal.
Now he’s set to take on running all six of the Majors World Marathons in Alice’s memory.
The Aguiar family said: “Alice’s WonderDance is a foundation created and inspired by the name of our daughter Alice Da Silva Aguiar who we tragically lost last July 2024 in the Southport attack.
“Since that day nothing has returned or will ever be the same again.
“But we don’t look back with sadness — we move forward with purpose, spreading the same energy, magic and love that Alice brought to every space she danced in.
“We believe dance is more than movement, it’s freedom, creativity, connection, and joy. Our work removes barriers so that every child can access dance, explore their passion, and grow through movement in a safe, empowering space.
“To help bring this vision to life, we will count on the support of our incredible community, as well as Alice’s dad , Sergio. He will be taking on an incredible challenge: running all six Majors World Marathons in Alice’s memory, with love, determination, and the unwavering support of Elsie’s Story, another incredible cause close to our hearts.
“This journey is more than a physical feat ,it’s a tribute, a mission, and a movement. Every mile he runs helps raise awareness and funds to support Alice’s WonderDance and the children we’re here to serve.
“All funds raised will go directly to Alice’s Wonderdance Foundation, delivered in partnership with the Community Foundation Lancashire and Merseyside. This ensures that every donation is securely and clearly visible and managed and used effectively to support dance programmes, resources, and community events that reach those who need it most.
“Together, we can turn grief into growth, and pain into purpose. Thank you for walking, dancing, and believing with us.”
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