The Professional Board for Environmental Health Practitioners (PBEHP) recently unveiled its new logo following a competition to design a new logo to best reflect the profession. The prize-winning ceremony was held at the HPCSA head office.
After a thorough selection process, Ms. Tshepiso Modupe’s design emerged as the top choice among many submissions. Mr. Rivalani Sambo’s design came a close second, while the third spot was claimed by Mr. Johan Koekemoer.
The HPCSA personnel who attended the logo unveiling and prize-giving ceremony warmly welcomed Ms. Modupe and Mr. Sambo. They were hosted by the Acting Registrar, Mr. David Mametja and Mr. Joseph Shikwambane, the PBEHP Chairperson. Officials from the Corporate Affairs Division and the Office of the Executive Company Secretariat were also in attendance.
Ms. Modupe went on to describe how winning the competition has sparked a newfound passion and drive within her to delve deeper into the field of environmental health, saying, “I am eager to continue learning and exploring ways to make a tangible difference in promoting environmental health awareness and sustainability. Thank you to everyone who believed in my vision and contributed to this success. I would also like to give my heartfelt gratitude to my wonderful family and friends, as well as my amazing colleagues and lecturers, for their support.”
Ms. Modupe is a graduate of the University of Johannesburg, holding a degree in Environmental Health. She fulfilled her twelve-month community service requirement under the Gauteng Department of Health at the Ekurhuleni Health District. We caught up with her to learn more about the process behind her winning design and to hear her thoughts. Here’s how the question-and-answer conversation unfolded:
What was the inspiration behind the design?
The inspiration for my environmental health logo comes from my profound appreciation for the connection between nature and human well-being. Through incorporating different design elements, I aimed to capture the essence of environmental health and its vital role in safeguarding our planet and promoting human health.
The use of green tones and diverse elements symbolises the essence of nature and the environment, emphasising the significance of conserving our natural resources for the well-being of present and future generations. The symbols surrounding the tree depict the breadth of environmental health. The circular shape, resembling the globe, signifies the worldwide influence of environmental health while conveying ideas of unity and inclusiveness. At the core of the design, the tree serves as a potent symbol of the connection between humanity and nature, with its centre representing an individual. As the tree expands, its branches symbolise growth and vitality.
In conclusion, the logo serves as a visual manifesto of our dedication to environmental health, to communicate our interconnectedness with the environment and the symbols emphasise our commitment to safeguarding human health and preserving the well-being of both current and future generations.
What message does your logo design convey?
For those unfamiliar, environmental health involves studying how both natural and man-made environments affect our health and well-being. It includes understanding and addressing factors in our surroundings, like air and water quality, sanitation, food safety, and the built environment, that can impact human health. By advocating for a comprehensive approach to health and well-being, environmental health aims to foster healthier and more sustainable communities for everyone.
How do you feel about winning the competition?
Winning the competition has left me feeling incredibly thrilled, humbled, and deeply grateful. It is an indescribable feeling to see my environmental health logo being acknowledged and celebrated. Knowing that my design effectively communicates the essence of environmental health fills me with a great sense of accomplishment. I would like to express my gratitude once again to the HPCSA for this opportunity; I am genuinely thankful.
Last Updated on 3 May 2024 by HPCSA Corporate Affairs