Ivory Park youngster marks children’s day on a global stage
IVORY PARK – Sebabatso Nchephe shared some inside into her role as an ambassador for Techno Girls and how she got to speak with David Beckham.
A young Ivory Park resident shared a discussion with soccer legend David Beckham to commemorate World Children’s Day on 20 November.
Unicef organised an inspirational dialogue between Sebabatso Nchephe and their goodwill ambassador Beckham, to inspire children all around the world as they strive for their dreams.
Unicef South Africa’s communication specialist, Suddeshan Reddy said World Children’s Day was Unicef’s annual day of action for children, by children. “It is a day to highlight the situation of children both in South Africa and globally and to understand that children’s rights need to be considered in every aspect.
“It is critical that children and young people are inspired and motivated to help shape the society they wish to grow up in. An engaged, active and participatory generation of young leaders can mobilise their peers and improve their communities and societies,” Reddy added.
Eighteen-year-old Sebabatso is currently an ambassador for the Techno Girls Programme which is sponsored by Unicef. The programme offers girls from grades 9 to 11 an opportunity to take part in job shadowing, mentorship and skills development programmes in the public and private sectors.
Sebabatso said celebrities or ambassadors of Unicef wanted to let children tell their stories. “I am glad and fortunate enough to have been given an opportunity to be in conversation with Beckham. After all, on this day children are celebrated and their rights are acknowledged. Children are just given a platform to be themselves and are appreciated for who they really are.”
In her message to children on World Children’s Day, Sebabatso said she hoped each and every child realised their greatness within them. “We live in a society that constantly wants us to succumb to challenges we are facing, that dims our lights and makes us forget who we really are and who we aspire to be, but if we could decide to believe in ourselves and have faith in our dreams, we will overcome obstacles and be the change.”
She added that she aimed to change her world and the world she lived in. “Being a part of a lot of life-saving journeys is my main plan. I am already a friend of Unicef and I will use my story to motivate more girls and boys. Young minds together are innovative and that will make change to a better future reimagined.
“I also aspire to be a lawyer, that way I can fight for human rights and be a voice for the voiceless and those who are silenced.”
Details: For more information please contact Unicef South Africa on 012 425 4700.
