The Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania and Santa Claus arrived, on the eve of the holidays, at the home of the Romanian mental arithmetic super champion, Karlos Tănăsucă - one of the outstanding young people of the "100 Youngsters for Romania's Development" campaign, 2024 edition. The visit was full of excitement and joy, and the gifts were worthy of his achievements: a much-desired TV, which was missing from their home in Iași, sweets and educational materials to support his passion for learning and bring a little light into the life of a family that invests everything in their child's education.
At just 12 years old, Karlos is a mathematical phenomenon - a child prodigy who solves complex calculations at astonishing speed and took first place at the HORUS 8 International Mental Math Olympiad, organized by the World Mathematics League.
His story is one of courage and determination. Raised in Iași, in a modest family, Karlos was left by his mother at the age of just 2 and was raised by his father, who dedicated every day to providing him with support and a solid education.
Despite limited resources - no expensive tutoring or modern equipment - this extraordinary young man taught himself the art of mental arithmetic, even with the help of an old laptop.
In 2024, Karlos' achievements took him to the finals of the '100 Youngsters for Romania's Development' campaign, where he was awarded a scholarship of excellence for his academic merits and exemplary spirit. But beyond the diplomas and medals, the family's day-to-day reality remains a challenge - his father works tirelessly to cover basic expenses and Karlos often feels the limitations of lack of resources.
Wanting to turn this life story into a moment of genuine joy and recognition, the Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania and Santa Claus brought Karlos a much-desired TV - a gift the family could not afford, but which brings light and optimism to their home. Karlos doesn't just dream of medals. His dreams go beyond that: he wants to become an IT specialist and use his extraordinary mind to innovate and build a future where he can help his family and inspire other young people.
Through this visit, the Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania is not just offering a Christmas present - it is offering recognition, encouragement and a clear message: talent and passion deserve support, and excellence must find ways to shine beyond material conditions.
