One thing Otakukon has clearly been about since it started is creating a space for fans of Japanese animation, comic books, gaming and Japanese pop culture. For years the event has embodied a home for this group of people who have a shared passion and interest. After the first few years, it was clear that the interest went beyond pop culture and into all Japanese culture. In our second year, we made a choice to also make it a home for young fans as well. This was the birth of the Kids Corner at Otakukon.
Why the Kids Corner is Important
It could have been the realization that there were a significant number of attendees were millenials and most of us are parents now. It could be a desire to see the media that we love passed on to the next generation. A desire to have shared memories with our children. What we ackbnowledge as Otakukon though, is that we can’t all enjoy the festival in the same way. The young ones have unique and sometimes simple ways to enjoy life. We set out to look for a way to give the little ones an enjoyable experience at Otakukon Anime Festival. Letting the parents enjoy the con as well is a bonus.
Colouring Station
Who doesn’t enjoy a good colouring session? We do and so have all the young ones who have come to Otakukon. We’ve seen amazing experessions of art as well as great interactions and little lifetime friendships. We’ve gone a step forward and used the colouring pages to introduce the kids corner to local characters. Not just local but also some of our beloved pop culture characters and IP.
Kids Corner Jumping Castle
If we had 10 of these, we still wouldn’t have enough. Also because the grown ups want a castle of their own. The jumping catsle provides a great place to let the little ones use up all their energy. We’re investing in early bedtimes whenever parents come with little ones to Otakukon. We have several volunteers managing the space as well so that they are attended while they bounce. Until they shout, “Look mom!” At this point we’re tagging you back in.
Kids Cosplay and The Takuji Award
The Cosplay competition at Otakukon is competitive and the mainstay of the event. Over the past year we have seensome of the best cosplays we have ever seen in Zimbabwe. It’s no surprise that we are happy to see young attendees start to take part in the cosplay showcase as well. Their energy and smiles are some of the best things for us and we hope we continue to get more and more cosplayers among the little ones. The Takuji award (named after Takuji Anata) is our promise to always acknowledge ALL the young cosplayers who take to the stage for the cosplay showcase. Please encourage the little ones to become their favorite characters for the day. Whether it’s Marvel, DC, anime, manga, or even games!
We still have a long way to go in building the ideal kids corner at Otakukon. We hope that over the coming events we will be able to partner with more corporates who care about children and family. When that day comes we will continue to invest in the future of pop culture fandoms and the Kids Corner at Otakukon.
