Qhawekazi ‘Qhawe’ Mazaleni has embarked on a new chapter in her journey of advocating for children, announcing that she has officially joined UNICEF South Africa as a Champion for Children.
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The Miss South Africa 2025 titleholder shared the news on social media, describing the appointment as one that is particularly close to her heart.
“I’ve officially joined UNICEF South Africa as a Champion for Children,” she wrote.
Qhawe said she has remained committed to creating a South Africa where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow and reach their full potential.
“I’m really excited and invite you to join me on the next chapter,” she added.
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Focus on education and children’s rights
According to UNICEF South Africa, Champions for Children use their public platforms and influence to raise awareness about issues affecting children and encourage support for children’s rights.
These issues include access to quality education and healthcare, protection from violence, poverty and inequality.
Qhawe’s particular focus will be on every child’s right to quality education, especially children in underserved communities, those living with disabilities and learners facing developmental or learning challenges.
Her appointment also builds on her background as a speech-language therapist, children’s book author and literacy advocate.
Through her work, she has highlighted the importance of early childhood development, mother-tongue learning and making educational resources more accessible to children.
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Continuing her literacy advocacy
Qhawe has previously used her platform to promote literacy and inclusive education.
She is the author of Amasele Amdaka, an isiXhosa children’s book designed to introduce young readers to colours and numbers while encouraging a love of reading.
Her literacy advocacy has also included school engagements, where she has encouraged children to read and highlighted the importance of learning in one’s home language.
Her work reflects her interest in ensuring children from different backgrounds have access to learning opportunities and resources that support their development.
What does being a UNICEF Champion for Children involve?
UNICEF Champions for Children are volunteers who help bring attention to issues affecting young people and encourage communities to take action.
Their activities may include participating in community and field visits, supporting awareness campaigns, sharing messages on social media, speaking at events and helping promote fundraising initiatives.
They also play a role in amplifying children’s voices and drawing attention to challenges that affect their rights and well-being.
For Qhawe, the appointment provides another opportunity to use her public platform and professional background to support children and promote a future in which every child has the chance to thrive.
Her announcement marks the beginning of this new chapter, with her work in literacy and inclusive education providing a foundation for her advocacy.
