Spotlight

This week, we are thrilled to spotlight Hephzibah Akinwale, a remarkable 11-year-old girl who has recently broken the world record for the longest fiction novel written by a child.

This week, we are proud to spotlight Katharine Birbalsingh, a remarkable leader in education and social mobility.

From the moment he could walk, Truptraj Pandya was drawn to a tabla that lay unused in the corner of his house. By the age of 15 months, this remarkable child was already playing it, displaying a prodigious talent for music.

In August 2023, Sheema Sen Gupta assumed the pivotal role of Director, Child Protection at UNICEF. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Ms. Sen Gupta brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the advocacy and protection of child rights, particularly in challenging and complex humanitarian contexts.

Ms. Sen Gupta’s journey with UNICEF is marked by her extensive work in both development and emergency situations. Her career is distinguished by her ability to lead programs that bring sustainable changes to systems, policies, and service delivery for children and women. Her leadership roles as Representative in Iraq and Deputy Representative in Afghanistan and Bangladesh underscore her commitment to improving the lives of the most vulnerable.

Before these senior positions, Ms. Sen Gupta was the Chief of Child Protection Programme in Somalia and Ghana, where she spearheaded initiatives to protect children in some of the most difficult environments. Her early work at UNICEF focused on developing psychosocial support programs for emergency responses, a testament to her deep understanding of the psychological needs of children in crisis.

Over the past 23 years, Ms. Sen Gupta’s work has taken her across the globe, including assignments in India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Ghana, Somalia, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Her global perspective and hands-on experience in diverse settings have equipped her with unique insights into the multifaceted challenges of child protection.

Prior to her tenure at UNICEF, Ms. Sen Gupta practiced as a psychologist and worked with The Calcutta Samaritans, further honing her skills in providing critical support to those in need. Her academic background includes a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, which has been instrumental in her approach to child protection and advocacy.

As a Malaysian national, Ms. Sen Gupta’s career reflects a deep commitment to making a difference on an international scale. Her leadership and vision continue to inspire and drive forward the mission of UNICEF in protecting and uplifting children worldwide.

Sheema Sen Gupta’s remarkable journey and unwavering dedication to child protection make her a deserving feature in our Spotlight of the Week. Her work not only highlights the importance of protecting children’s rights but also demonstrates the impactful role of compassionate and skilled leadership in humanitarian efforts.

Simthandile “Sim” Tshabalala, an 11-year-old golf prodigy from South Africa, is making significant strides in the world of golf.

olajogun Akinlami has been honored with the 2024 Global Recognition Award for her significant contributions to social change and advocacy for marginalized communities.

Danita Akosua Adomaah Yeboah, popularly known as Afronitaaa or Stargyal, is a shining star in the world of dance.

Abigail Adjiri, a remarkable young talent, has captured the hearts of many with her incredible dance moves and inspiring journey.

This week, we celebrate the incredible journey and achievements of Jude Kofie, a 12-year-old musical prodigy from Aurora, Colorado, whose story is both inspiring and heartwarming.

This week, we shine a light on Mr. Bill Magnusson, a compassionate piano tuner whose generous spirit has made a profound impact on a young prodigious talent.