By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In an inspiring fusion of creativity, social impact, and youth empowerment, the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA)- Sierra Leone, in collaboration with Kompin Artists, successfully staged a two-day art exhibition on May 9th and 10th at the YMCA headquarters in Freetown. Themed “Empowerment,” the event brought together emerging talents, art enthusiasts, and community leaders in celebration of artistic expression and the power of youth.
The exhibition drew a vibrant and diverse audience, including Her Worship the Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, and other distinguished guests, who came to witness the impressive showcase of artworks created by young Sierra Leonean artists.
The event was more than an artistic gathering — it was a call to action and a fundraising initiative aimed at bolstering YMCA- Sierra Leone’s ongoing youth empowerment programs. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the artworks will directly support these programs, which focus on education, entrepreneurship, and leadership development for young people across the country.
In his opening remarks, Christian Martin Kamara, CEO of YMCA Sierra Leone, spoke passionately about the organization’s commitment to harnessing the power of creativity as a tool for youth development.
“We are here this evening with Kompin Artistes to highlight the creativity of young people,” Kamara said. “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.”
The featured artists, many of whom are rising stars in Sierra Leone’s art scene, presented a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media installations. Each piece reflected personal stories, social commentary, and the shared aspiration of youth seeking to shape a brighter future through creativity. From portraits exploring identity and resilience to abstract works symbolizing transformation and growth, the exhibition embodied the theme of empowerment in both form and message.
Representatives from Kompin Artistes echoed Kamara’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of collaborative spaces that amplify local voices and foster economic opportunities for artists. “Art can do more than decorate a space—it can educate, inspire, and create change,” said a spokesperson for the group. “We are proud to work with YMCA to create that space.”
Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, known for her advocacy of youth and urban development, commended the initiative in her keynote remarks. “This exhibition reflects the spirit of Freetown—resilient, vibrant, and full of promise. Empowering young people through creative platforms like this is essential for sustainable development,” she said. “I applaud YMCA and Kompin Artists for turning vision into action.”
Beyond the artwork, the event featured live painting sessions, music performances, and panel discussions, allowing attendees to interact directly with artists and explore the role of art in community transformation. The interactive format created a dynamic atmosphere where creativity was not only showcased but experienced.
Attendees had the opportunity to purchase original pieces, with many expressing appreciation for the talent on display and the cause behind the event. One visitor remarked, “It’s beautiful to see art used in such a powerful and purposeful way. You’re not just buying a painting—you’re investing in a young person’s future.”
With the exhibition concluded, YMCA- Sierra Leone hopes to make the event an annual fixture, building a sustainable model for funding youth programs through creative partnerships. The success of the “Empowerment” exhibition marks a significant step in that direction, demonstrating how community-driven art initiatives can drive both cultural enrichment and social change.
As the curtains fell on the two-day event, the message was clear: when youth are given the space to express themselves, supported by institutions that believe in their potential, empowerment becomes more than a theme—it becomes a reality.
