The Baby Zebra Drawing Contest is a community-focused art competition designed to inspire creativity, celebrate Sierra Leonean culture, and give young artists a platform to shine.
The contest will run during the December school break, allowing as many students as possible to participate. All activities, from the briefing to the final award ceremony, will be managed by Baby Zebra with sponsorship from Jacky Chang and Sierra Diamonds Ltd.
The competition will begin with a clear briefing delivered to teachers and students in the Tongo community, followed by an official start date around 15 December, with entries accepted throughout the school holiday period (19 December – 5 January).
All submissions will be judged in early January, and the award ceremony is scheduled for mid-January, with a target date of 10 January.
This year’s artistic direction focuses on themes that are positive, local, and deeply connected to Sierra Leone. Students are encouraged to express their identity, environment, and future dreams through two approved topics:
1. “My Home, My Colors – Sierra Leone”
Artworks may depict whatever feels like home — mango trees, Okada riders, river canoes, family traditions, local dishes, or everyday scenes unique to Sierra Leonean life.
2. “Sierra Leone Tomorrow”
Students can imagine the future they want: solar-powered schools, modern technology, environmental protection, or bold dreams like girls in astronaut suits representing their nation.
Entries will be accepted in three categories: children’s drawing, crayon, and gouache/poster paint. Each artwork must be created by the student independently, with only minimal support from parents or teachers.
To recognize and motivate outstanding talent, the contest will offer the following prizes:
1st Prize: 1 winner — USD 100 + certificate
2nd Prize: 2 winners — USD 70 each + certificate
3rd Prize: 3 winners — USD 50 each + certificate
The competition aims not only to showcase artistic skill but also to uplift young voices, promote cultural pride, and support creativity within the Tongo community. Through this initiative, Baby Zebra hopes to highlight local stories, empower students, and help build a brighter future for Sierra Leone.
