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UNICEF South Africa Champions for Children

Raising awareness, sparking conversations and mobilizing support for children’s rights

UNICEF South Africa Champion for Children Qhawekazi (Qhawe) Mazaleni, wearing a black UNICEF t-shirt plays with Ntando (3) in a bright orange school shirt, during a visit to Kgotso Day Care Centre in Kaalfontein, Johannesburg.

UNICEF Champions for Children play a critical role in shining a light on the challenges children in South Africa face, from access to quality education and healthcare to protection from violence and the impact of poverty and inequality.

Drawn from the worlds of sport, music, entertainment and public life, each Champion volunteers their time and influence to raise awareness, spark conversations and mobilize support for children’s rights. By lending their voices to UNICEF’s work, they help reach the most disadvantaged children and adolescents with lifesaving help and hope, and inspire others to take action.

Every Champion brings their own story, experience and commitment to the cause. Get to know our Champions and the issues they’re most passionate about below.

Our Champions

A smiling woman wearing a black UNICEF-t-shirt, stands in front of a purple wall, holding a children's book.

Qhawe Mazaleni

Miss South Africa titleholder and Empower Youth Africa Ambassador

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Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Champions use their platforms to raise awareness of the issues affecting children in South Africa and to encourage others to take action. This can include joining field visits to see UNICEF’s work first-hand, sharing messages on social media, speaking at events, supporting campaigns and fundraising appeals, and amplifying the voices of children and young people.

No. UNICEF Champions for Children are volunteers. They give their time, voice and influence freely because they believe in the cause. UNICEF does not pay Champions for their work with the organisation.

UNICEF South Africa works with individuals who share UNICEF’s values, have a genuine commitment to children’s rights, and can help reach new audiences. Each Champion goes through a selection process before being named.

Public figures and personalities who would like to lend their voice and time to children’s causes are welcome to get in touch with us at [contact email].

You don’t need a public profile to make a difference, though. Anyone can stand up for children by sharing UNICEF’s messages, speaking up for children’s rights in their community, or becoming a donor. Every contribution helps us reach the most disadvantaged children with lifesaving help and hope. 

Requests to involve a Champion in an event or initiative can be sent to [email protected]. Please include details about the event, the date, and how it supports children.