The Youth have the Power to Transform Africa!

Curatorial Statement

At Dikan Academy, we hold a firm belief that every child in Africa, irrespective of their background or circumstances, has the inherent right to process their experiences, engage with their environment, and narrate their unique stories. We believe that the youth hold the key to transforming Africa. The cornerstone of our ethos is a dedication to empowering young people of Africa, enhancing their viewpoints, and amplifying their voices. Our mission is designed to foster self-expression, positively influencing their self-perception and their contribution to their communities.

The Dikan Academy, collaborating with the Canon Young People Program, has achieved a significant milestone by enrolling 10 students between the ages of 13 and 15 from various communities, including La Nativity, Labone, Labadi, South La Estate, Osu, and Kaadjaano. This initiative, spanning 10 weeks, harnessed the transformative power of storytelling. It offered these young individuals not only access to essential equipment but also the resources needed to develop their skills, capture engaging images, and express themselves and their perspectives effectively. With many of the students from the communities, this is the first time they've held a camera.

The young participants have been diligently working on individual projects that revolve around the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a special focus on environmental issues and their communities. Some of these projects have highlighted the concerning presence of plastic waste in local beaches and parks.

In these areas, community members are actively involved in recycling both plastic and metal waste, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental preservation. One notable project at the Osu Home School showcased the effective separation and recycling of waste, illustrating how students are Learning to manage and recycle waste responsibly. Other projects have brought attention to community living conditions, uncovering issues such as poor housing and inadequate garbage disposal. Conversely, some areas of the community were shown to maintain a clean and healthy environment. Local entrepreneurs, like Desmond Okine, have been spotlighted for turning their passions into successful ventures, despite facing resource limitations.

Be encouraged, be inspired by these images.