Netwerk24, a popular Afrikaans online platform, has launched a unique competition called "WAT sê jy?" to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Woordeboek van die Afrikaanse Taal (WAT). The competition invites readers to share their favorite Afrikaans words that bring them joy and make their tongues roll with delight. The platform is encouraging readers to participate by submitting their favorite words through a Google document.
The WAT, also known as the Dictionary of the Afrikaans Language, has been a cornerstone of the Afrikaans language for 100 years. To commemorate this milestone, Netwerk24 is asking readers to share the one Afrikaans word that they find most enjoyable to say. The word could be one that sounds pleasant, has a funny meaning, or simply brings a smile to their face. The competition is open to all readers, and participants can enter by clicking on a link that takes them to a Google document.
The competition, which runs until September 30, invites readers to submit their name, surname, contact details, and their favorite Afrikaans word. A panel will then select the top 10 words, which will be submitted to the WAT. The word that receives the most nominations will be purchased by Netwerk24 on behalf of its readers, creating a lasting legacy of the words that are dear to Afrikaans speakers. This initiative aims to celebrate the unique expressiveness of the Afrikaans language.
Henriëtte Loubser, editor-in-chief of Netwerk24 and Afrikaanse Media, expressed her excitement about the competition. She highlighted the richness and uniqueness of the Afrikaans language, citing examples of words like "bollemakiesie" that showcase its creative potential. Loubser encouraged readers to participate and share their love for Afrikaans.
In addition to the chance to have their favorite word immortalized in the WAT, participants will also be entered into a lucky draw to win a Takealot gift voucher worth R1,000. Madelein Venter, head of marketing and subscriptions at Netwerk24, emphasized the importance of celebrating the Afrikaans language and its unique characteristics. She noted that words have the power to evoke emotions and create connections.
Netwerk24 has previously purchased words like "smaakmaker" and "intekenaar" for the WAT, demonstrating its commitment to preserving and promoting the Afrikaans language. The platform's efforts aim to encourage readers to appreciate the beauty and expressiveness of Afrikaans. By sharing their favorite words, readers can contribute to the language's continued growth and evolution.
The "WAT sê jy?" competition is a celebration of the Afrikaans language and its ability to bring people together. By participating, readers can showcase their creativity and love for the language. The competition will not only result in a unique collection of words but also provide a platform for readers to engage with and appreciate the richness of Afrikaans.
Key points
- Netwerk24's "WAT sê jy?" competition invites readers to share their favorite Afrikaans words to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Woordeboek van die Afrikaanse Taal (WAT).
