Jane – from student to mentor

Jane joined a MASK Club at her school in Naivasha, Kenya. Before then, she had never even held a paintbrush. With MASK, she learned the fundamentals and discovered a passion for art.

One day, a MASK teacher was stopped on the street by a young woman. It was Jane, eager to share her success story. She proudly explained how she now earns money by painting wildlife. “Thank you for introducing art into my life,” she said. “You helped me develop my talents. I am very happy, and my parents are happy for me too!”

But her story did not stop there. After moving to a new school, she took the initiative to establish a Creativity Club there, teaching her peers the same skills she had learned at MASK. This is a remarkable example of how creativity can create a ripple effect, inspiring others.

In 2010, Kenya’s leading national newspaper, The Daily Nation, published a feature on MASK titled 'Lessons from the Mobile Art School'. The article included a striking image of Jane painting on the floor—an enduring symbol of resilience and resourcefulness.

Jane’s journey from an inexperienced student to a thriving artist and mentor is dear to MASK. It exemplifies our mission and highlights how creativity can unlock potential.

Jane is proof that when young minds are empowered to create, they can shape their own futures and uplift their communities.

Her life took an extraordinary turn when she discovered her talent, becoming not only a successful young artist but also an advocate for creativity, sharing her skills with others.