Help design Parliament's new identity

"We are very excited that this process will, for the first time after 12 years, change the positioning and the image of Parliament," says Mahlangu-Nkabinde.

The current emblem dates from 1910 and represents the Westminster Tradition. It includes the old South African Coat of Arms and the four colonies. The new one needs to reflect Parliament's evolution from the beginning to its current state while complementing the responsiveness and the people-centred approach which Parliament strives for.

To ensure a smooth running of the project, Parliament has invited experts drawn from various sectors of society, including the design and branding industries, to provide guidelines in the short listing process. The team will also ensure that the final design comply with design and heraldic specifications. They will work closely with the Political Steering Committee which is overseeing the entire project. The Committee is made up of the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, the Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP and Members of Parliament representing all political parties.

The experts include:

• GCIS director design: Anande Nothling
  
• Heraldry- National Herald: Themba Mabaso (five designers from Heraldry)
  
• Department of Education Deputy Director General: Mr Mathews
  
• Department of Art & Culture Director Heritage: Phakamani Mthembu
  
• Experts in African symbols and art - Dr Mathole Motshega and Dr Credo Mutwa
  
• Design Indaba- chairman: Ravi Naidoo
  
• Vega School of Brand Management MD: Dr Carla Enslin

The closing date for submission of draft designs is 9 September 2006. This will be followed by a four-day workshop, which will take place 3 - 6 October 2006 at the Lanzerac Manor and Winery in the Western Cape. In attendance will be 20 short-listed designers.

The workshop will consist of lectures, group design sessions and motivational talks delivered by the panel of experts. Thereafter five designs will be selected, and a final design will be refined by Heraldry and will be presented to the Joint Rules Committee for final approval.

Details on how to participate will be in the Sunday papers, on radio in all 11 official languages, or info can be obtained from your local Member of Parliaments Office.