Young Artists are ‘Reshaping the Future’ in UN in Indonesia Comic Competition

Saving the planet doesn’t require superpowers, iron muscles, or flashy capes. Sometimes, it just takes a pen and a splash of color. Young artists from across Indonesia recently showed us how it’s done, using their creativity to reimagine a better world—demonstrating that real change starts with ideas.

To highlight the recent Pact for the Future and emphasize the significant role of youth in development, the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Indonesia teamed up with creative company Bumilangit to launch a comic competition for young people. The theme, “Reshaping the Future,” drew inspiration from the outcomes of the UN’s Summit of the Future, inviting young minds to reflect on global issues and envision solutions for a better future through the power of comic art.

With six iconic superheroes of the Bumilangit universe to choose from, young artists could submit entries in one of the following categories:

• Climate change and environmental sustainability
• The Role of Youth in Digital Innovation
• Strengthening global cooperation and peace

Selected from among 57 submissions, we are pleased to introduce the winners:

Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability - Oei Alice Zita Kusuma (20)

As the winner in the Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability category, Ms Kusuma is on a mission to spark action for a better world. Her artwork features Sri Asih taking down a criminal–only to realize her efforts mean little in a world devastated by environmental destruction. “This is an issue that’s been around for a long time, but it’s often overlooked—even by ourselves,” Ms Kusuma said. “I hope that by highlighting it in my work, more people will realize just how urgent and immediate this problem truly is.”

The Role of Youth in Digital Innovation - Mischa Sultana Salwa (16)

In the Role of Youth in Digital Innovation category, Mischa Sultana Salwa claimed the top spot with her creative take featuring Tira. Through her artwork, Ms Salwa promotes responsible use of technology with its benefits and challenges. “Advanced technology has the power to do so much good, but it can also pose risks if misused. That’s why it’s so important to inspire the younger generation to use it responsibly and wisely,” she said.

Strengthening global cooperation and peace - Ashley Maryam (20)

With a story featuring Si Buta dari Goa Hantu, Sri Asih, and Virgo, Ms Maryam emerged as the winner in the Strengthening Global Cooperation and Peace category. She highlights the importance of justice for all—especially marginalized communities—and reminds us that each individual has a role in building peace and fostering global cooperation. “I believe everyone needs to be more aware of what’s happening around us. We have to help one another and care about the issues we face today,” she said.

At the Monas Blue Event last month, celebrating UN Day, the three finalists in each category had the opportunity to showcase their comic panels.

By merging storytelling with critical thinking, this competition not only showcased the power of youth in envisioning a better world, but also inspired them to become active participants in shaping a future defined by collaboration, hope, and shared responsibility.

Read all nine finalists’ artwork here.

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