Grace Mutesi

Art has always been my refuge and my voice. As a young girl from Rubavu, I discovered painting when I was 12 years old. What started as drawing in the margins of my notebooks has evolved into a passion that drives me every day.

My paintings focus on themes of hope, resilience, and the strength of African youth. Each piece tells a storyÔÇöstories of young people overcoming adversity, pursuing education despite obstacles, and building better futures for themselves and their communities.

Through Bihak Center's arts program, I have received mentorship from established artists and access to quality art supplies. They helped me organize my first art exhibition, where I sold 8 paintings and used the proceeds to support my education and buy materials for other aspiring young artists in my community.

I dream of becoming Rwanda's next celebrated artist and using my work to inspire young people across Africa. Art is not just about creating beautyÔÇöit is about creating change.