Commentary

A vibrant display of creativity and compassion unfolded on Friday, 17th October 2025, when Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, in collaboration with “Kompin Artists”, hosted the “Treasure Our Chests” Art Exhibition. Held at the Orange Foundation Office on Alpha Wurie Drive, Hill Station, Regent Road in Freetown, the event formed part of this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities and sought to use art as a powerful medium for advocacy, healing and community impact.

Speaking at the exhibition, Ranya S. Nirvan, Founder Kompin Artists, expressed gratitude to the Orange Foundation for collaborating with the Kompin Artists to champion such an important cause. “We are not just artists showcasing our work we are a family using art to make a difference. Every exhibition we hold contributes to a meaningful cause,” she said.

Ranya S. Nirvan explained that the Kompin Artists, a group of 10 artists, has consistently used its exhibitions to raise funds for various social causes. “Our first exhibition in November last year supported the Sick Pikin Project which helps underprivileged children access proper medical attention. The second exhibition focused on autism awareness, and this time, we’re proud to be supporting the Sierra Leone Cancer Foundation through this breast cancer awareness exhibition,” she noted.

She further emphasized that a percentage of sales proceeds and art auction revenues from the exhibition will be donated to the Foundation to aid cancer awareness and patient support programs.

Ranya S. Nirvan also took a moment to acknowledge her team members and family for their unwavering support, particularly her husband, whom she described as her “backbone and source of strength.”

Charlie Haffner, Proprietor of the Freetown Players called for sustained investment and support in Sierra Leone’s arts and creative industry, describing it as vital to human resource development and national growth.

He commended the Kompin Artists for their creativity and dedication, noting that art continues to play a transformative role in shaping societies and inspiring change.

“I am very pleased with all the arts here today and I call on the Orange Foundation and others to continue supporting art. Supporting art means supporting income generation, creativity and national development,” he said.

Charlie Haffner, a strong advocate for performing and visual arts, underscored that consistent support from both the public and private sectors is necessary to sustain the country’s cultural identity and creative talent. “Please continue to support the arts not only for entertainment but as an investment in our nation’s human resource development,” he urged.

He expressed appreciation to Orange Foundation and Kompin Artists for using their talents to promote breast cancer awareness, emphasizing that initiative like that bridge creativity with social responsibility.

Charlie Haffner concluded by encouraging artists to continue honing their craft and audiences to keep engaging with Sierra Leonean art, noting that “art has the power to tell our stories, heal our communities and drive progress.”

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Chief Minister, applauded the efforts of the Kompin Artists and Orange Foundation Sierra Leone for creatively advancing the fight against breast cancer through art.

He highlighted the deep connection between art, culture and national identity, emphasizing that Sierra Leone’s growing creative industry remains one of the country’s most valuable exports. “Our biggest export from Sierra Leone to the world is art and culture. Whether it’s music, design or painting, these creative expressions define who we are and how we are represented globally,” he said.

Chief Minister referenced successful Sierra Leonean creatives working internationally, noting that their contributions underscore the importance of investing in the local art industry. He encouraged attendees to support the artists by purchasing their works, emphasizing that such actions directly contribute to both cultural growth and economic empowerment.

“Before you leave today, make sure you support at least one artist. When you buy their art, you are helping to build a creative economy that adds pride and value to our nation,” he urged.

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh also reflected on the critical role of science, research and innovation in addressing health challenges like breast cancer. He disclosed that the Government continues to support scientific research and digital health solutions, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve early detection and treatment outcomes for cancer patients.

“Early detection saves lives. We must continue to invest in science, technology and awareness to ensure that women have access to screening and care,” he said.

He further commended the Orange Foundation and the Kompin Artists for merging art with advocacy, noting that such partnerships inspire civic participation and public awareness.

“What you have done here today shows how art can be a force for good. It heals, educates and brings people together around causes that matter,” he added.

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh concluded by congratulating the artists and expressing optimism that Sierra Leone’s creative sector will continue to thrive as a tool for national development and social change.

Credit: Foday Moriba Conteh