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New Afrikaans birthday song campaign celebrates 100 years of the language

New Afrikaans birthday song campaign celebrates 100 years of the language

The Citizen29-05-2025
New Afrikaans birthday song campaign celebrates 100 years of the language
Afrikaans celebrated its 100th anniversary as a national language on 8 May.
In light of this, a 'proudly Afrikaans' insurance company is questioning if it's time for another version of 'Veels Geluk, Liewe Maatjie'.
They are launching a nationwide campaign to create a brand-new Afrikaans birthday song.
'Something memorable, meaningful, and proudly local. A song that can be sung at every birthday, by anyone who loves Afrikaans.,' said Morné van Emmenes, head of marketing at Virseker.
'We're inviting all South Africans to help write it. Whether you're a poet, rapper, student, singer, or just someone who loves the language – share your lyrics, ideas, audio, videos or even voice notes. The only rule? It must be proudly and powerfully Afrikaans,' said Van Emmenes.
Participants have the chance to win hampers and shopping vouchers.
A panel of iconic artists – including Sonja Heroldt, Early B, Karen Zoid and Anton Goosen – will help decide which ideas will inspire the final version.
Visit https://www.virseker.co.za/onsverjaar/ for helpful tips and to join the movement.
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