A young artist’s vision shines

Junior Kapofi
Hilja Kwedhi, a 17-year-old student at Etosha Secondary School, has left an indelible mark in the realm of child advocacy. Her remarkable design recently won the prestigious Children's Advocate logo design competition, catapulting her into the spotlight as a talented young artist with a passion for protecting children's rights. Kwedhi's winning design was unveiled at an event held in Windhoek last week, where it was officially anointed as the emblem for the Children's Advocate. Her creation is a depiction of a figure embracing two smaller ones in a protective manner. This logo will soon grace various educational and promotional materials for the Children's Advocate, becoming a symbol of their mission to safeguard children's rights.

The competition's primary objective was to develop a brand identity that children could genuinely connect with. In this regard, Kwedhi's design radiates warmth, protection and an inviting appeal, intended to resonate with every Namibian child. It also seamlessly encapsulates the core values of the Children's Advocate, which are the unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights of children. What sets this competition apart is that it entrusted the task of designing the logo to the children themselves. After all, the Children's Advocate's primary purpose is to represent and protect their rights.

A voice for children

Kwedhi's victory illustrates the significance of this approach, ensuring that the emblem truly mirrors what children believe in and what they need.

Sylvia Shapumba, Windhoek's junior mayor, emphasised the importance of children understanding their rights and the accompanying responsibilities that come with them.

This knowledge empowers children to stand up for their rights and ensures they understand the significance of protecting them, she further added. Natalie Russmann, director of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, echoed the sentiment of active child participation in matters related to children's rights.

She highlighted the importance of children taking ownership of their education and creating awareness about their rights. The event underscored the pivotal role of children in shaping their future and the society they wish to live in. It's important to note that the services provided by the Children's Advocate are entirely free of charge, reaffirming their commitment to the well-being of children. As Kwedhi's design takes centre stage, it symbolises the collective effort of children to champion their rights and foster a brighter future for Namibia's youth.