A national initiative, Funkaar encouraged youth aged 12 to 19 years to be creative with a social conscience. The competition had three categories:
- Creating craftwork with used/ recycled material readily available at homes
- Developing low-cost technology applications/gadgets to address a real-world issue and/or enhance the quality of daily life chores.
- Developing Vlogs on social issues that have a significant impact in our lives
Youth from different regions across Pakistan participated in the competition and surprised the judges with their creative ideas and empathy to contribute towards our society. The participants were initially assessed at the regional level and then evaluated at the national level.
After a rigorous, competitive process, we are proud to present the winners of Funkaar in Pakistan!
VLOGS (Category: 12-15 Years)
Winner: Aiza Hussain
Project: Corona Diaries: Musical Mind
The Vlog discusses how COVID-19 has affected our lives. It stresses on the importance of adopting safe and healthy practices to prevent the transmission of the disease; for instance, washing hands with soap and water, using a sanitizer, wearing masks and maintaining social distance. While the lockdown has presented some challenges, its positive side is that we can enhance our learning by using virtual spaces.
“It is important to tell them [girls] that marriage should not be their ultimate goal. They must know their worth and importance as a human being. I aspire to work for girls and tell them to achieve their dreams. Go and explore opportunities!” - Aiza
VLOGS (Age category: 16-19 Years)
Winner: Zeeshan and Group (Arham Imdad, Areesha Amin & Shahzaib Javed)
Project: Mental Health Awareness
The Vlog focuses on the stigma around mental health which is affecting our community and the world at large. Mental health is an issue of utmost importance and shedding light on this has never been more important than now because most people are stuck at their homes due to COVID-19.
“I aspire to use the power of the media to create awareness among masses and prevent our brothers and sisters from indulging in unhealthy activities. By doing so, I can also contribute in leading people towards eternal happiness by following the guidance of Mawlana Hazar Imam.” - Zeeshan
Winner: Tania Anwer Ali Hirwani
Project: Breaking the Stigma against Mental Health
The Vlog challenges the stigma against mental health in our society. People dealing with mental health are often called mentally ill which hurts their sentiments and may lead to dire consequences. We should come together to talk about mental health issues and help those who need care.
“I think people around us needs to be broad-minded; often people are caught up in thinking 'LOG KYA KAHENGY' (what will others say). This phrase can have serious consequences and limit others from expressing themselves. I aspire to work on something which changes people's mindset and allows them to think broadly and appreciate others." - Tania
INNOVATION (Age category: 12 -15 Years) Winner: Nawfal Hakeem
Project: Elevator - "Don't lose it! Reuse it!"
The project uses old toys and used boxes to make an electric elevator. It builds on the principle of 3Rs - reuse, recycle and reduce - to overcome environmental pollution.
“I don't feel comfortable when I see a child begging or working as a labour instead of going school. I aspire to end misery and help them with my knowledge and skills”. - Nawfal
INNOVATION (Age category: 16 -19 Years) Winner: Alyshaan Rasheed Hunzai
Project: Solar Shirt, Smart Charger and Solar Cap
This project presents a design for Solar Shirt, Smart Charger and a Solar Cap. The Solar Cell Wearable Chargers can be manufactured cheaply and transported easily. Moreover, it is easy to separate the cells for cleaning and/or repairing.
“I aspire to answer the world’s problems using simple and innovative techniques. This way everyone can access these techniques and be happy”. - Alyshaan
CRAFTWORK (Age category: 12 -15 Years) Winner: Urushba Iqbal
Project: Jewelry Box
This project uses old cardboard boxes to make a jewelry box. The project contributes towards sustainable development by thinking of innovative ways to reduce pollution by reusing old things in our house.
"I aspire to solve issues of pollution and environmental sustainability. I think that if we all get a little creative, we can not only make something that can benefit us but also something that can benefit the environment. Even our small acts can make a big difference”. - Urushba
CRAFTWORK (Age category: 16 – 19) Winner: Wahaj Abdul Karim
Project Title: 3D Origami
Origami is the art of paper folding; it can be used to create new things with used paper. In creating my project, I tried to reuse paper and create angry birds with the origami technique.
"I aspire to contribute towards environmental sustainability. To play my part in this global challenge, I like to create decorative pieces with paper which is not in use. This way I can save paper and contribute towards sustainable living” – Wahaj
