At Kor Water, we believe hydration is more than just drinking water. It’s a moment of presence, a ritual of care, and, when done right, a form of expression. That belief came to life in the most profound way when we recently had the honour of hosting a creative day at Princess Máxima Center – the largest paediatric oncology research centre in Europe.

But this wasn’t just another event. It was deeply personal.

Our former brand manager and forever friend of Kor, Nerine Jones, knows the halls of the Máxima all too well. Her son received care here during his cancer journey. So when the opportunity arose to give back to the community that had once held her so closely, it was never a question of if – only how soon. This day was a celebration of life, resilience, and above all, creativity.

How the Day Unfolded

Children and their parents were invited to join us for a relaxed creative workshop, where they could decorate their very own Kor ONE of a Kind bottles with custom Halo Trims™. Using POSCA markers and colourful imaginations, each child got to personalise their bottle in a way that reflected their personality and spirit.

Some chose bold strokes, some gentle doodles. Some coloured in patterns; others let colour run wild. There was music. There was laughter. And there was something quiet and powerful about watching each child immerse themselves in the simple joy of creating something truly their own.

Annemie Fourie, our Team Lead at Kor Water, described it best:
"It was deeply emotional. To witness these moments of lightness, of focus, of pride – it was incredibly moving. What stood out most was how normalising and empowering it felt for the kids to be seen not as patients, but as creators. As individuals with stories and styles to share."

More Than Just a Craft

We also delivered creativity kits to children who couldn’t leave their rooms that day. Each hamper included blank Halo Trims™ and decorating supplies, allowing every child the chance to participate in their own time. Once the trims were coloured in, our team carefully collected, varnished, and assembled each bottle with care – returning a sealed Kor ONE bottle back to their rooms.

Each bottle, uniquely designed, became a small keepsake of the day – a personal reflection of self-expression, colour, and individuality.

The Story Behind the Máxima

Princess Máxima Center isn’t just a hospital. It’s a place built on empathy, innovation, and education. During our visit, we learned how children are guided through their treatment journey using a highly interactive, child-friendly environment. It explains everything – from how cells behave to how specific treatments work – in clear and accessible ways.

There are immersive spaces where family, friends, and classmates can learn more about a child’s experience using real-life visuals like microscopes and models of treatment machinery. This level of transparency and emotional intelligence is what makes the Máxima so special – a centre not just for healing, but for understanding.

Why It Mattered to Us

Impact is often measured in numbers, but this day reminded us that the most important kind of impact is human. It’s found in shared smiles, quiet concentration, and the unmistakable pride of a child holding something they made with their own hands.

We came with bottles and colour. We left with so much more: a deeper connection to the stories, strength, and creativity of every family we met.

Looking Ahead

As a brand rooted in purpose, Kor is committed to using our platform to support meaningful change. We’re proud members of 1% for the Planet, contributing more than 1% of our annual revenue to nonprofits working toward a healthier planet. But moments like these remind us that sustainability isn’t only environmental – it’s emotional. It’s communal. It’s human.

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible team at Princess Máxima Center for allowing us into your space and your stories. To the parents who welcomed us so warmly. And to the amazing volunteers who helped bring this day to life – we truly could not have done it without you.

To every child we met: your creativity lit us up. Your courage inspired us. You reminded us why we do what we do.

And to Alexander, Nerine’s son – you are the reason this day existed. We celebrate every step of your journey, and we honour the strength you've shown.

At Kor, we often say: some see a water bottle; we see a blank canvas. And on this day, that canvas was filled with more meaning, more colour, and more connection than we ever imagined.

Let’s keep unbottling joy – one child, one bottle, one beautiful moment at a time.