By Foday Moriba Conteh
A vibrant blend of creativity, advocacy, and compassion came to life when Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, in collaboration with Kompin Artists, hosted the “Treasure Our Chests” Art Exhibition. The event, held at the Orange Foundation’s office at Hill Station, formed part of this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities, using art as a powerful medium for healing, awareness, and community impact.
In her remarks, Ranya S. Nirvan, Founder of Kompin Artists, expressed appreciation to the Orange Foundation for partnering with her team to champion such a vital cause.
“We are not just artists showcasing our work; we are a family using art to make a difference. Every exhibition we organize contributes to a meaningful cause,” she said.
Ranya explained that Kompin Artists, a collective of ten artists, consistently uses its exhibitions to raise funds for social causes. “Our first exhibition in November last year supported the Sick Pikin Project, which helps underprivileged children access medical care. The second 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 added that a portion of the proceeds from art sales and auctions would be donated to the Foundation to support cancer awareness and patient care programs.
Ranya also took a moment to thank her team and family for their unwavering support, especially her husband, whom she described as her “backbone and source of strength.”
Prominent theatre icon Charlie Haffner, Proprietor of the Freetown Players, called for greater investment in Sierra Leone’s creative industry, emphasizing that art is vital to national growth and human resource development.
“I am very pleased with the art displayed here today, and I urge Orange Foundation and others to continue supporting the arts. Supporting art means supporting creativity, income generation, and national development,” he stated.
A long-time advocate for both performing and visual arts, Haffner underscored that sustained public and private sector support is crucial to preserving the country’s cultural identity.
“Please continue to support the arts, not only for entertainment but as an investment in our nation’s human capital,” he urged.
He commended the organizers for using their talents to promote breast cancer awareness, noting that initiatives like this beautifully merge creativity with social responsibility.
“Art has the power to tell our stories, heal our communities, and drive progress,” Haffner concluded.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, praised Kompin Artists and Orange Foundation for creatively advancing the fight against breast cancer through art.
He highlighted the deep connection between art, culture, and national identity, stressing that Sierra Leone’s creative industry remains one of its most valuable exports.
“Our biggest export from Sierra Leone to the world is art and culture. Whether through music, design, or painting, these creative expressions define who we are and how we are represented globally,” he said.
Dr. Sengeh encouraged guests to support the artists by purchasing their work, emphasizing that doing so contributes directly to cultural preservation 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.
He also reflected on the critical role of science, research, and innovation in combating health challenges such as breast cancer. He noted that the Government continues to support digital health initiatives and AI-driven technologies to improve early detection and treatment outcomes.
“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 emphasized.
Dr. Sengeh commended Orange Foundation and Kompin Artists for demonstrating how art can be used as a force for good.
“What you have done here today shows how art can heal, educate, and unite people around causes that matter,” he said.
He concluded by congratulating the artists and expressing optimism that Sierra Leone’s creative sector will continue to thrive as a catalyst for national development and social change.
