The Miss Africa USA Pageant and the DC Chapter of Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) strengthened their ongoing partnership by holding a special cultural and educational program at the First Friday: Art Walk Dupont Circle. During the one-man exhibit by renowned Sierra Leonean artist Sahr Songu Mbriwa, known professionally as Bondumani, Miss Africa USA titleholders joined YHRI to promote human rights awareness through art, outreach, and community engagement.
Bondumani, who has been showcased on CNN for his hyperrealism style, displayed a dozen pieces recently brought from Sierra Leone. He gave a live demonstration of the technique, allowing attendees to participate. Bondumani is the founder of the Bondumani School of Art in Freetown and is seeking support for free art lessons for talented youth in Sierra Leone.
Ambassador Amara Sheikh Mohammad Sowa attended as a special guest, delivering remarks on the importance of art in society. Miss Africa USA Diana Melissa Ngoumape and First Princess Adeola Shonubi spoke about empowering women and the importance of human rights. Organizer Beth Akiyama, Executive Director of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, stated, "People of every nation must know their 30 human rights. Governments of the world must make the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights known and followed for the sake of peace and prosperity for all."
The partnership between Miss Africa USA and YHRI fosters opportunities for youth to champion human rights education. Earlier this year, they participated in a program in Cameroon to bring human rights education to schools. Through public events and creative collaborations, the pageant's leadership helps bring the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to new audiences. Founded by Dr. Lady Kate Ndi 20 years ago, the Miss Africa USA Pageant champions humanitarian leadership among African women in the diaspora.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, created after World War II, includes 30 rights that all people have. Despite its importance, few people are aware of it. Educational materials from the event are available at www.youthforhumanrights.org, with DC Chapter updates at Facebook.com/YHRDC.
