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Several of the country’s most popular celebrities, including the leading man of South Africa’s Academy Award-winning movie Tsotsi, are among thousands of South Africans who have tried their hand at design for the very first time.
Why, you may ask?
Because Parliament wants a fresh new image and has asked the nation to get its creative juices flowing by designing its new emblem. The new emblem must encapsulate Parliament’s vision and must be attractive, distinctly African, dignified, and more importantly meaningful and simple.
Thus far, celebrities and schools have been a key factor in promoting this creative process.
Presley Chweneyagae, star of the movie Tsotsi, says a symbol for Parliament should portray the country’s history. “It should show that from the strife and conflict of the past we have achieved a peaceful transition to become a rainbow nation. I like the image of a rainbow,”
said Presley.
Kwaito star Zola believes that the new emblem should be something that is very easy to recognise and has to embrace all races, cultures and religions. Actress Nina Swart loves the idea of using a finger, much like the way commuters indicate what their destinations are to tax drivers, while Shaleen Surtie-Richards loves the juxtaposition of one face with black and white halves.
Learners have also been encouraged to create symbols reflecting Africa, our multi-cultural society, a new beginning, unity, the stature and dignity of the institution and democracy.
The final emblem will be unveiled in May 2007.
