Shenaiza Hamisi Lingende

Shenaiza Hamisi Lingende (16), from Tanzania, grew up as an orphan in Mtwara and knows the vulnerability and limited opportunities that children without parental protection can face. Her experiences inspired her to advocate for children’s right to expression and quality education.

She organizes “Art for Rights” workshops where orphaned children use painting and drawing to express their feelings and speak up for better school facilities. She also worked with local artists to create a public mural in Morogoro highlighting protection from child labor and the importance of keeping children in school.

Shenaiza has used storytelling and art to bring children’s experiences into wider conversations. She created short video testimonies about children living in child-headed households and curated the “Our Roots, Our Dreams” exhibition, inviting community leaders to engage with artwork created by vulnerable children.

Four “Art for Rights” workshops have reached more than 120 orphaned and vulnerable children. Her public mural is estimated to be seen by more than 500 community members every day, turning art into a lasting message for children’s rights.