Mentoring 45 African Female Artists for Resilience

Happy 2026!!!

We are stepping into the new year filled with pride, excitement, and deep gratitude as we reflect on the extraordinary journey of our AFAMP alumni. Their growth has gone far beyond what we imagined when they first joined the program. From securing international residencies to developing stronger, more confident bodies of work, they are truly spreading their wings, and we are proud to have helped lay the foundation that strengthened their flight.

Watching these transformations has been nothing short of inspiring. We have seen artworks refined in both quality and depth, artist bios sharpened with clarity and conviction, and global networks expand as our alumni step boldly onto international platforms. Many who once sought visibility are now exhibiting widely, collaborating across borders, and confidently claiming their place within the global art ecosystem.

This growth represents the true heart of AFAMP’s impact. It reminds us why this work matters and reinforces our belief that the future is incredibly bright for African female artists. As we expand AFAMP in 2026, we are energized to continue nurturing talent, amplifying voices, and sharing even more inspiring alumni stories in the months ahead. Stay with us,the best is still unfolding.

We officially began the 2025/2026 AFAMP cohort journey with our mentee onboarding call on December 5, 2025- a vibrant two-hour interactive session filled with curiosity, openness, and renewed confidence. It was a powerful moment of alignment as a new cohort of artists gathered from Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, Eswatini, South Africa, and Uganda. Each participant arrived eager to gain clarity around her creative practice and to better understand her direction within the broader art ecosystem.

On January 7, 2026, we formally launched the mentorship phase of the program. Painters, photographers, textile artists, ceramists, and mixed-media practitioners came together to share their expectations, aspirations, and personal goals for the months ahead. While their artistic mediums, training backgrounds, and lived experiences vary widely, one clear pattern emerged: African female artists, regardless of discipline, often navigate deeply interconnected structural and professional challenges. Recognizing these shared realities has enabled us to shape a mentorship experience that is more responsive, intentional, and grounded in the actual needs of the artists we serve.

As the program gained momentum, we facilitated the first direct engagements between mentors and mentees, carefully aligning artistic ambitions with relevant industry expertise. These thoughtful pairings mark the beginning of three months of guided collaboration designed to offer strategic advice, practical solutions, constructive critique, and strengthened professional confidence. Through this process, each mentee is supported to refine her vision, deepen her practice, and navigate the creative industry with clarity and purpose.

To our sponsors and donors, we extend our deepest appreciation. Your generous and consistent support has made it possible to implement this cohort at the highest standard. Your contributions cover mentor and staff salaries and allowances, art supplies, transportation, accommodation, meals, branded materials, and essential program logistics, ensuring that participation remains completely free for the young women in the program. Because of your commitment, these artists can access mentorship and opportunities that would otherwise remain out of reach. We are profoundly grateful for your partnership and for the role you play in making this impact possible. Thank you.

Links:

• AFAMP project page