Casa Magia Superhero Program

I am very happy and proud to have led the Superhero Program at Casa Magia in Peru.

The Superhero Program consisted of making each cancer patient a Superhero. I led a team of photographers, assistants, designers, and suppliers to produce high-quality images of the patients dressed in actual superhero costumes. We then transform the images into customized Superhero posters, frame them, and distribute them to each family.

The Program was very well received by the Magia staff and the parents. Most importantly, however, it was the children who loved it the most. The Program was a source of happiness, strength, and empowerment for the children who identified with and became their favorite Superhero. This provided a welcome distraction from their challenging circumstances.

Watch video here!

MAGIA

Charitable Association for Children with Cancer

The vision at Magia is that no child with cancer is left without treatment due to a lack of financial resources. The goal is to make sure that every child, especially those traveling from remote areas of the country for cancer treatment, emerges victorious despite the challenging battle they face.

Magia is responsible for housing the children and companions and covers all the childrens transportation, treatment, medicines, and surgical interventions. It also supports the implementation of the Pediatrics department of the INEN (National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases), guaranteeing the long-term treatment of children.

Preparing the work scene

Preparing the work scene required careful planning and organization. I coordinated with the Magia team to identify the best dates and location. Once on scene, I hung the costumes, organizing them by Superhero. On the opposite wall, I placed posters of the different Superheroes so the children could easily pick their favorite. Then, with the photographers, we rearranged furniture to make space for the photo shoot session.

Choosing the Superhero costumes

Once everything was in place, it was time for the children to pick out their costumes. One by one, they joined me at the rack and selected the Superhero they wanted to become for the picture. Next, they carefully selected unique accessories for their costume.

Dressing up for the photo shoot

Once the children got their costumes and accessories, the next step was to get them dressed. They went into separate rooms with their parents, who helped them put on their Superhero outfits. As the kids embraced their inner Superhero, I joined in helping with the finishing touches- adjusting capes, fastening masks, and making sure their shoes fit snuggly.

Getting pumped up for the shoot!

Before the actual photo shoot, each child got to pose with their parents and practice their Superhero moves. We double-checked every costume detail, and once all was approved, we went on to the photo shoot and backdrop area.

Superheroes in action!

Once in the photo shoot area, it was lights, camera, and action! I played Superhero director, helping them with multiple power poses and muscle flexing. I ensured everything looked perfect and helped bring out the Superhero in each and every one of them!

Choosing the best pose!

After the Superhero shots, the children were able to see the results from the cameras on an iPad. They scrolled through the images finding which Superhero pose they liked the best for their poster.

I loved this part as both parents and kids got very excited!

Renzo, the invincible Captain America!

One standout moment during the project was working with Renzo in his Captain America costume. He really identified with his Superhero and radiated positive energy all around him! I helped him enhance his Superhero look to perfection. Before this picture, I helped practice certain poses to give the appearance of total dominance. The results were spectacular!

Naomy, indestructible wonder woman!

Naomy was one of the most inspiring Superheroes. She chose every detail of her costume and quickly called us out when we almost forgot her bulletproof cuffs. Here, she confidently shows the world who is in charge and on a mission!

Wilians, the invincible Batman!

One standout moment during the project was working with Wilians in his Batman costume. He really identified with his Superhero and radiated positive energy all around him! I helped Wilians enhance his Superhero look to perfection. Before taking this picture, I helped lift and drop his cape to give the appearance of movement.

Luz Clarita, indestructible Girl Robin!

Little Luz Clarita was one of the most inspiring Superheroes. She chose every detail of her costume Here, she confidently shows the world who is in charge and on a mission!

Elioger the Flash and company

Elioger was by far the most confident and creative poser. He had the energy, style, and determination that conquered all! Here, he is shown flanked by Aytana, Batgirl, Edrick, the Incredible Hulk, and little Pier, Batman.

The Superhero final line-up

A special thanks to the awesome volunteers!

This Project would not have been possible without the participation of a highly motivated and energized group of Casa Magia staff and volunteers. My special thanks to: Maricarmen Velandres, Vania, Melissa, Jose Luis, Renato Torres Andrade, Grethel Herrera, Geraldine Cateriano, Nicole Vidarte, Daniela Osaki and Juan Pablo Andaluz!
Thanks to all for making it happen!

Rafael Palma
Superhero Program Lead
Casa Magia
Lima-Peru, 2025