WATCH: Unicef unveils statue in honour of Universal Children’s Day
SANDTON – Unicef unveils a new statue on Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton to pay tribute to children.
Universal Children’s Day was celebrated in magnificent style at the Nelson Mandela Square on 20 November.
The organisers of the event, United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) hosted celebrities and young ones for the unveiling of a new statue that stands next to the already famous sculpture of Nelson Mandela.
Unicef South Africa representative Herve Ludovic de Lys said the statue, which is of a young girl child, symbolises every child in South Africa and represents the power of children to shape the future.
Unicef communications specialist Sudeshan Reddy and the organisation’s ambassador Zakes Bantwini revealed the new statue, simply named Hope, to a cheering crowd, while the Roosevelt Park High School choir bellowed out beautiful harmonies.
“What if children became our leaders,” said Reddy addressing attendees. What would that mean for us? We need to remember that children are our future leaders. We need to cherish them and nourish their development.”
De Lys added, “Hope represents children’s strength and resilience. She represents their joy‚ confidence‚ courage and conviction.”
Mandela’s granddaughter Ndileka Mandela gave an impassioned speech, asking parents, communities, and government to step up and make the world a better place for children. “We need to see a concerted effort from everyone involved in the development of our children,” she said.
“Children absorb so much information from a young age. We need to make sure that they receive the right type of knowledge.”
Funnyman Chris Forest acted as master of ceremonies for the night and there were featured performances by young poets.
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