Nakivale Young Artist Profiles

Artists are ChangeMakers too! Ten artists join us on June 1, 2024 to share their art and stories. As we approach that date, I will add more artists!

Updated June 2, 2024 - We did it! Our June 1st online art expo was a success! To watch the 2-hour video on YouTube, click here!

Nakivale Artist Profiles

Mansur Kajib Kabera, age 20

Meet Mansur Kajib Kabera, a resilient Congolese artist who was born on May 23, 2005, into a family of 10 in the midst of war-torn DR Congo. In 2015, at just 10 years old, Mansur and his 9 siblings fled their homeland without their parents, who tragically lost their lives during the conflict.

Despite the immense hardships, Mansur's unwavering passion for art burned bright. He studied in Congo and later continued his secondary education in Uganda as a refugee in Nakivale settlement. However, his dream of becoming a professional artist faced opposition from loved ones who urged him to abandon art for more conventional paths.

Undeterred, Mansur's artistic spirit persevered. In 2018, he joined Nyanbja group, honing his skills. By 2020, he courageously embarked on his artistic career. His pivotal moment came in 2023 when he joined Nakivale Young Talent Community, an organization championing refugee talents and skills development.

Today, Mansur stands tall, fueled by an unbreakable determination to achieve his goals. He eagerly awaits this exhibition, beaming with pride to showcase his work and seize new opportunities.

Ashuza Casinga Joshua “Josby”, Age 15

Born into the vibrant heart of Rwanda in 2008, I, Ashuza Casinga Joshua, was the dreamer among seven souls in our humble family. The canvas of life was my calling, yet my parents envisioned a future for me in the halls of justice, as a lawyer. This well-intentioned path they chose for me, however, did not align with the strokes of passion in my heart.

In 2011, our roots were uplifted as we journeyed from Rwanda to the Democratic Republic of Congo, where I embarked on my primary education. It was a time of secret escapes to the embrace of art, and upon my return, the bite of my mother's discipline was a harsh reminder of the divergence between my dream and my reality.

The year 2017 marked the onset of turmoil, as war ravaged our village in the DRC. Tragedy struck with the loss of my brother, and amidst the chaos, we fled for sanctuary to the Nakivale refugee settlement in Uganda. Yet, even in the shadow of adversity, the ember of my dream to be an artist flickered defiantly.

The turning point came in 2021 with the fateful encounter of Akon Deograce. His visit to our school unveiled my hidden talent as he caught me mid-sketch. Akon's inquiry into my dreams sparked a dialogue that would eventually bend the will of my parents. Through persistent advocacy, Akon championed my artistic aspirations, and within a week, my parents' resistance waned, and they embraced my true calling.

My journey through art education commenced in October 2021, and by the end of 2022, I was ready to paint my destiny. Now, in 2023, I stand at the cusp of sharing my vision with the world. The Nakivale Young Talent Community, though modest in size, has been instrumental in nurturing the seeds of potential within us.

As I look towards June 1st, 2024, anticipation courses through me. It is not just a date but a celebration of resilience, talent, and the unwavering spirit of youth. I extend an invitation to you: join us, witness the unveiling of dreams woven into reality, and experience the journey of Nakivale's artists hand-in-hand with Rainmaker Design."

Esther Tharhous, Age 17

My journey in the art world started in 2021. It took me some time to truly grasp the essence of art. I had a friend who was skilled in art. After some heartfelt conversations, I managed to convey my desire to become an artist. It wasn't easy to convince my friend to teach me, but I eventually learned from nakivale young talent community. now, I have a career in art with their help, an experience that I'm really proud of.

In a society where there are stereotypes about women in art, I stayed focused on my dream, aiming to set an example for other women aspiring to be artists.

Let's recognize the significance of empowering women in the art field and challenging societal norms.

Nathalic Sindano, Age 18

In the heart of DR Congo in 2006, Nathalic Sindano's arrival was a beacon of joy for her family. Growing up in Bukavu, she was a bright spark in her community, her eyes alight with visions of vibrant canvases and the sweep of a brush. Despite the societal chains that sought to restrain her ambitions, Nathalic's dream of becoming an artist burned with a fierce intensity. The discouraging words of those who believed a girl's destiny was prewritten could not smother the fire in her spirit.

The year 2017 marked a period of darkness for Nathalic as the war in DRC claimed her brother’s life, a loss that shattered her world. With her family reduced to a fragment, they fled to the Nakivale refugee settlement in Uganda. Here, amidst the ashes of her former life, Nathalic's dream seemed to wither, the title of 'refugee' weighing heavily upon her. But fate had other plans when she met Mushagalusa, a kindred spirit who saw the ember of talent within her. His words reignited her hope, "Your dream still there."

Guided by Mushagalusa to his brother, the artist Akon Deograce, Nathalic found a mentor, an ally, and a new chapter at the Nakivale Young Talent Community. With each stroke of her brush, she reclaimed her narrative, her talent blossoming like a resilient flower through concrete. By 2023, Nathalic's art spoke volumes, a language of color and emotion that defied her circumstances. Now, as she prepares for the exhibition on June 1st, 2024, Nathalic stands as a testament to the enduring power of dreams. Her work is not just a display of skill, but a gallery of triumph over trials, a celebration of the indomitable human spirit.

Nathalic Sindano, once a girl with a dream, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration, her art a vibrant narrative of hope that resonates far beyond the canvas.

Krehim Sharon, Age 20

Though his parents dreamed of him becoming a doctor, Sharon’s unwavering passion for art burned bright. He secretly honed his skills, determined to make an impact through his creations. In 2016, war ravaged Sharon’s homeland of Congo, forcing his family to flee as refugees to Uganda Nakivale Refugee Settlement. Amidst this upheaval, Sharon’s artistic fire remained undimmed. After numerous rejections, he finally found a nurturing home at Nyanja artist group in 2018, where is raw talent blossomed. 2022 marked a pivotal year as Sharon joined the Nakivale Young Talent Community, an organization championing refugee artistry. Here, he flourishes, imparting skills to others while refining his own craft. Though challenges persist, Sharon’s resilient spirit and unwavering dedication fuels dreams of global recognition. This exhibition presents a golden opportunity - a chance for Sharon’s work to be witnessed, appreciated, and perhaps open doors to new found horizons. For this tenacious young artist, the canvas blackens a testament to the indomitable human spirit’s ability to create beauty amidst adversity.

Marjolain Furaha, Age 17

In DR Congo, a spark of creativity was born in 2007—Marjolain Furaha, a girl with dreams as vast as the sky. Amidst the warmth of a family of eight, her light began to shine. With each step into her education, her passion for art ignited, a flame that not even her brother's discouraging words could extinguish. Marjolain knew her worth and her talent, and she held onto her dreams with fierce determination. Tragedy struck, and her world was turned upside down, but Marjolain's spirit remained unbroken. She and her family sought refuge, a quest for peace that led them to Nakivale, where hope was rekindled. Here, Marjolain found a sanctuary for her creativity at the Nakivale Young Talent Community, a place that nurtured her gift. Now, as 2024 unfolds, Marjolain stands on the brink of a new horizon. Her art, a tapestry of her experiences, is ready to be showcased to the world on June 1st. With gratitude, she extends her thanks to Rainmaker Design for their unwavering support. Marjolain is not just an artist; she is a beacon of resilience and hope, ready to share her story and touch the hearts of many.

Lionel Jospin, Age 17

Lionel Jospin's journey began in the heart of Burundi, where he was first born in his family. In 2010, under the nurturing skies of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Lionel embarked on his educational odyssey, with his family's dreams of him donning the white coat of a doctor. However, Lionel's heart danced to a different rhythm, one painted with the broad strokes of an artist's brush. Despite his parents' dreams, Lionel's passion for art was undying. He yearned to explore the vast canvases of his imagination, to bring his inner visions to life. His pleas to pursue art clashed with the expectations set before him, creating dissonance in his young life. As Lionel concluded his primary education in 2017 and before he could return to the land of his birth, the DRC was engulfed in the flames of conflict. Amidst the chaos, Lionel and his family fled, their lives uprooted in the search for sanctuary. They found refuge in Uganda's Nakivale settlement, a place of solace provided by the compassionate hands of UNHCR. In the face of despair, Lionel's spirit remained unbroken. His quest for artistic mastery led him to the Nakivale Young Talent Community in 2022, where he began to sculpt his future with the delicate touch of a true artist. There, amidst fellow dreamers and creators, Lionel's talent blossomed.

MORE ARTIST BIOS TO COME!

Artist Expo Co-Hosts

Elijah Astute, Age 24

ELIJAH ASTUTE

I am Elijah Astute, a 24-year-old Congolese refugee living in Uganda's Nakivale Refugee Settlement since 2016. Born in Bukavu, Congo, I had dreams of becoming a software engineer or astronomer. However, the war forced me to flee, leaving my education behind. Overcoming adversity after arriving in Nakivale, I faced numerous challenges, including being refused by the Refugee Eligibility Committee and spending two years on the streets. Despite these obstacles, I discovered permaculture and earned certifications in Permaculture Design (PDC) and Mushroom cultivation.

My journey led me to Kenya, where I learned about Syntropic Agroforestry. This knowledge inspired me to continue by founding Bio-Green, an organization dedicated to empowering women and youth in permaculture and agroforestry, mushrooming, and handcrafted initiatives. Our mission is to secure food and livelihoods for our community. Nurturing Creative Talent In addition to Bio-Green, I founded and direct the Nakivale Arts Collective. This platform provides a space for young artists to showcase their talents, market their work, and earn a living.

Despite the challenges I have faced, I remain committed to creating positive change in my community. My story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact one person can have.

Akon Deograce, Age 22

In the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo, a child named Akon Deograce was born. Amidst the bustling life of a large family, Akon’s aspirations transcended the ordinary; he was drawn to the arts and yearned to create and inspire. Akon’s childhood was a tapestry of vibrant dreams and harsh realities. As he stood on the cusp of secondary school, his life was upended by the chaos of war, a brutal reminder of life’s fragility. The family, once a sanctuary of love and laughter for fourteen souls, was tragically fragmented by the conflict, leaving only seven survivors. Akon, alongside his kin, embarked on a treacherous odyssey, a test of endurance and spirit. The roads became transient shelters, each step forward a testament to their resilience. The turning point came when they were taken to the Nakivale Refugee Settlement in Uganda, a place that marked a new chapter in Akon’s life. “Amidst my humble beginnings at the Settlement, I learned the value of community and resilience. Each day was a lesson in survival and solidarity, as we shared what little we had and supported each other’s dreams. From the long walks to school to the late nights selling bananas, my journey has been one of resilience and hope. I have carried water at dawn and shared biscuits with refugee children, all while dreaming of a better world. In 2021, I founded Nakivale Young Talent Community. This initiative became my life mission, channeling my passion for change into action. It was a commitment to lift others as I climbed, to turn the tide of despair into waves of opportunity for the children, youth, women and teenage mothers of my community. I have become a voice of the voiceless, a champion of the underdog, and a leader of the next generation. I am a change maker.