Nkhani Zanga
In 2017, alongside a local artist, I co-founded Nkhani Zanga —“My Story” in chi’Nyanja—in Lusaka, Zambia. The organization provides emerging artists, vulnerable youth, and children with a platform to creatively express themselves, with a particular focus on music. Using a mobile studio and strategic partnerships with local NGOs, we brought our program into marginalized communities and shelters for vulnerable children, recording original music albums written by youth under the mentorship of established Zambian artists and collaborating with local filmmakers to shoot, edit and produce music videos, giving them the opportunity to co-direct and shape the creative vision.
Everybody Knows It - Vision of Hope - An anthem created by the girls of Vision of Hope, a residential shelter in Lusaka, Zambia. During our storytelling sessions, they chose to explore the importance of love and being loved, sharing journal entries, personal hardships, and life experiences. These stories were recorded in our mobile music studio on-site, bringing their voices and perspectives to life. The project was produced in collaboration with local filmmakers, combining music and visual storytelling to amplify their message.
Work Together - Vision of Hope - written and composed by the girls at Vision of Hope, a shelter for vulnerable girls and women. The girls also co-directed the music video and wrote the chorus and versus. Today, several of the girls are actively involved in street outreach programs, supporting children still living on the streets by encouraging them to access local shelters, participate in family reintegration, and join counseling sessions.
The video was intentionally filmed in two contrasting locations: the streets, where many street children spend their days, and at Vision of Hope, a shelter where these girls now live. This juxtaposition highlights the parallel realities many children experience.
Handizunda - D Max ft. King Illest & Name’s Martian - “D Max,” a talented 12-year-old rapper, shares his frustrations growing up in a challenging environment through his music. Guided by two emerging Zambian rappers who mentored him during the songwriting process. The mentors helped him develop his flow, refine his lyrics, and navigate the recording process. This track marks D Max’s first-ever recorded song. Nkhani Zanga partially supported his education, helping him continue school while pursuing his passion for music.
Kalombo Sika Sanka (The Virus Does Not Discriminate) - Red Linso ft. Mufrika Edwards Created in collaboration with local filmmakers and featuring talented local artists, this video was produced to raise awareness about COVID-19. The project combined creative storytelling with a public health message, engaging communities through art while providing important information on safety and prevention.