Applications are now open for the African Union Youth Envoy Saleema Initiative Logo Competition 2019. The African Union Commission, through the Department of Social Affairs, is developing a Continental Initiative. Which is aiming at eliminating Female Genital Mutilation in Africa by 2030 – The Saleema Initiative.

Moreover, this Saleema Initiative aims at changing the negative social norms. Female Genital Mutilation is rooted in, by adopting a holistic approach that considers this harmful practice. Further,  a result of a given social, political, economic and anthropological context. The Commission believes that it is only through enhancing the cognitive social capital of communities as a whole, and community members individually, that Female Genital Mutilation will be abandoned.

The Saleema Initiative’s communication campaign will thus focus on working at the grassroots level, engaging communities, young people and women to take an active part in the dialogue that will shape the Saleema Campaign.

Additionally, this approach aims to accelerate actions that ensure every African girl can grow to maturity in her natural and original form: complete, unharmed, Saleem. Therefore,  the power to abandon the practice resides with families and communities. The focus is not on what communities ‘need to give up’ but rather on “what they stand to gain by changing”. Only people-driven change can effectively end the practice. A distinctive feature is the use of strong and positive communication techniques and approaches, affirming important cultural values while building aspiration for change, and empowering communities to create an environment conducive to a positive decision-making process that will lead to a cultural shift regarding this harmful practice.

Prize

The winner of the competition will:

• Win a $1,000 USD prize
• Win a trip and an invitation to collect their prize at a High-Level Event specifically organized to thank them for their participation in the making of the Saleema Initiative.

Eligibility

• Open to all African Youth between the age of 18 and 35
• Further, Applicants are to design a vibrant, innovative and continental LOGO for the Saleema Initiative.

Selection Criteria

The logo that will be selected to be the visual identity of the Saleema Initiative:

• Will send a positive, culturally sensitive message
• Will be a sign of empowerment for girls, women, and communities
• Also, be inspire by African imagery and/or cultural iconography
• Will respect the African Union Color palette