Otara Foundation inspires new generation of ‘Animal Defenders’
Passion for a worthy cause was kindled in a new generation of ‘animal defenders’ when the Otara Foundation rewarded the winners of a themed art competition for children at a poignant event recently.
The first of two such events motivated by the views of children, the event on Saturday 10th September included an exhibition of drawings on the life of animals in the Dehiwela Zoo, chosen from hundreds sent in by children aged 5 to 10 years in response to the Foundation’s invitation.
Nine children were rewarded for their artistic efforts with three first prizes of Rs 25,000 each, three second prizes of Rs 10,000 each and three third prizes of Rs 5,000 each at this event at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute. A similar event is to be organised for children in the 11 to 16 age group in October, the Foundation said.
“We are all born to love animals and live in harmony but taught to have different emotions and uses for them as we grow older. It is important to nurture that love and educate children on the importance of wholesome coexistence and treating animals with kindness and compassion,” said Ms Otara Gunewardene, founder and Director of the Otara Foundation. “We were greatly encouraged by the response to this art competition, as well as the insight and emotion that was evident in many of the drawings. We hope that activities of this nature will at least in a small way, influence the way animals are treated in our country and promote compassion and kindness in our next generation of Sri Lankans.”
The ‘Animal Defenders’ Art Exhibition and prize giving event also included short presentations on topics such as ‘Animal Rights,’ ‘Animals too treasure their freedom’ and ‘Animal World vs. Human World.’ An art workshop themed ‘having fun with colour,’ a puppet show and fun activities for kids including a photo booth with animal props ensured that the participating children enjoyed a fun-filled four hours.
