In a celebration of creativity, talent, and community impact, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) Sierra Leone, in partnership with Kompin Artists, successfully hosted a two-day art exhibition themed “Empowerment” on May 9th and 10th, 2025.

The exhibition, held at YMCA headquarters in Freetown, attracted a broad audience, including Her Worship the Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, alongside other distinguished guests.

The event served not only as a platform for young artists to showcase their talent but also as a fundraiser for YMCA Sierra Leone’s ongoing empowerment programmes. A portion of proceeds from the artwork sales will go directly toward supporting these initiatives.

A Platform for Artistic Expression and Empowerment

Speaking at the event, Christian Martin Kamara , CEO of YMCA Sierra Leone, emphasized the organization’s commitment to uplifting youth through creative opportunities.

“We are here this evening with Kompin Artists to highlight the creativity of young people. This partnership aims to showcase their artistic talents and reinvest proceeds into our empowerment programs. It’s about providing a platform for young creatives and building a community where such talents are nurtured,” Kamara stated

YMCA and Kompin Artists Unite for Empowerment Art Exhibition in Freetown

Christian Martin Kamara, CEO YMCA Sierra Leone/James Tamba-Martha – VRC

A Tradition of Giving Through Art

For Kompin Artists, this marks their third exhibition since launching in November 2024. According to Ranya Singh Nirvan, President of Kompin Artists and a glass painting specialist, the collective remains steadfast in its mission to use art for social good.

“We host exhibitions twice yearly. Our first in November 2024 supported the Sick Pikin Project, and our second in April 2025 focused on Autism Awareness, donating to Puzzle Pieces S/L. This third partnership with YMCA continues our goal of contributing to meaningful causes in Sierra Leone,” Nirvan explained

Ranya Singh Nirvan, President of Kompin Artists/ James Tamba-Martha -VRC

With ten members, each with a unique artistic style, Kompin Artists is steadily building a reputation as a dynamic collective using art as a tool for advocacy, healing, and development.

Cross section of audience at the exhibition/ James Tamba-Martha -VRC

Art as Therapy and Advocacy

For many of the participating artists, the exhibition was more than just a professional showcase—it was a personal journey. Portrait artist Josephine Baindu Dauda expressed how painting serves as both therapy and a channel for advocacy.

“It’s a creative outlet that allows me to explore my abilities and speak on important issues. It aligns with my skill set and helps me relax,” she said.

Josephine Baindu Dauda a Portrait Artist/ James Tamba-Martha- VRC

With growing public interest and support from civic leaders, the “Empowerment” exhibition is a testament to how art can inspire, unite, and give back to society. Both YMCA Sierra Leone and Kompin Artists look forward to hosting more exhibitions in the future, broadening their reach and deepening their impact on communities across the country.

For now, the brushstrokes left behind serve not only as a display of beauty but as symbols of hope and transformation