Our Story
We Amplify voices and defend the ones at margines of society.
Founded in 2012 on the belief that art can ignite social change, East African Visual Artists (EAVA Artists) began as a small collective of Ugandan artists documenting human rights issues. Over the years, it has grown into a regional movement of creative activism, defending human rights and advancing social inclusion across Eastern Africa.
In a region where civic space and free expression are often constrained by repressive measures, many communities' struggle and their stories are overlooked by mainstream media, we stand as a form of resistance, turning art into a voice for humanity, through powerful visual storytelling, we shine a light on marginalized lives and transform silence into awareness. We embody creative empowerment, championing freedom of expression and fostering inclusion for all.
- Visual Storytelling
- Human Rights Advocacy
- Community Empowerment
- Media Training
Our Mission
Awaken social consciousness through Art and culture
Empowering individuals, communities, and organizations, to tell their own stories, especially those who have been historically misunderstood or marginalized, ensuring policy commitments are translated into action that reach the intend audiences.
- Visual Arts & Media Documentation
- Human Rights Advocacy
- Community Empowerment
Our Vision
A free and inclusive society
We envision "a free and inclusive society, where every individual's voice is heard, valued, and respected." A society united in inclusion, were communities openly embracing their differences and finding space to thrive. Art is not just about expression, but a catalyst for equality, and lasting social transformation.
- Inclusive Society Building
- Diversity Celebration
- Universal Human Rights
We are guided by
Our Core Values
Inclusion
Everyone deserves to be seen and heard.
Freedom of Expression
Art is a human right.
Self-representation
We document our stories, in our own voices.
Community Empowerment
We train, support, and grow together.
Courageous Truth-telling
Even in hostile spaces, we speak up through images.
Our Programs
Visual Arts Programs
Closed
Human Rights Advocacy
The Human Rights Advocacy program is central to EAVA Artists' mission. We aim to protect the rights of marginalized communities, address harmful norms and policies, and equip changemakers with tools and skills to speak out against injustice so that all voices are heard.
Learn MoreHuman Rights Advocacy
The Human Rights Advocacy program is central to EAVA Artists' mission. We aim to protect the rights of marginalized communities, address harmful norms and policies, and equip changemakers with tools and skills to speak out against injustice so that all voices are heard.
Deadline: Jul 25, 2025
Free
Max 30 participants
Closed
Arts for Justice
We use creative arts to advance social justice and promote the universality of Human rights. Art has the power to challenge injustice, amplify community voices, inspire public dialogue, and mobilize action for change, faster and effectively.
Learn MoreArts for Justice
We use creative arts to advance social justice and promote the universality of Human rights. Art has the power to challenge injustice, amplify community voices, inspire public dialogue, and mobilize action for change, faster and effectively.
Deadline: Jul 25, 2025
Free
Max 30 participants
Closed
Community Empowerment
We train organizations, activists, and creatives to speak out and demand justice. We build platforms to share their voices and stories. We create safe spaces for learning, nature leadership and solidarity. Through community activities, we build confidence so people can take part in shaping a future where human rights are celebrated and respected
Learn MoreCommunity Empowerment
We train organizations, activists, and creatives to speak out and demand justice. We build platforms to share their voices and stories. We create safe spaces for learning, nature leadership and solidarity. Through community activities, we build confidence so people can take part in shaping a future where human rights are celebrated and respected
Deadline: Aug 04, 2025
Free
Max 30 participants
News & Articles
Our Latest News & Articles
Our Stories
Watch Our Impact
Discover the stories behind our work through powerful visual narratives and community testimonials.
Human Rights Are Universal Arts Festival
The Human Rights Are Universal Arts Festival is Uganda’s only event blending art, culture, and human rights. Hosted by EAVA Artists, it brings together artists, activists, and the public for exhibitions, live performances, films, mural painting, and powerful conversations on justice and inclusion. The festival is free and open to all, creating a vibrant space where creativity sparks dialogue, challenges injustice, and inspires collective action for a more just society.
More Videos
Mural Jam – Raising Awareness on Human Rights
Mural Jam – Raising Awareness on GBV and Human Rights
Mural Jam
Human Rights Are Universal Arts Festival-Edition 3
Human Rights Are Universal Arts Festival -Edition 1
Our Initiatives
Making Impact Through Action
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Transform Your Voice
Join our fellowship program designed to support creative practitioners from underrepresented communities. Develop skills in impact production, storytelling, and media creation that drives social change.
Months of Training
4
Fellowship Program
Inclusive Narratives Media Fellowship
The Inclusive Narratives Media Fellowship is a transformative program designed to Empower journalists to investigate, publish and report on human rights, marginalized communities, climate change, and democracy. We focus on developing skills in impact production, storytelling, and media creation that drives social change and amplifies marginalized voices..
- Documentary Filmmaking
- Digital Storytelling
- Community Engagement
- Social Impact Projects
Our Campaigns
Advocacy Campaigns
Frequently Asked Questions
Have Any Questions For Us?
EAVA Artists — short for East African Visual Artists — is a collective that uses art as a powerful tool for human rights, social justice, and community empowerment. We work with artists, activists, and communities to document stories, raise awareness, inspire change, and advocate for the inclusion of all humanity.
We are based in Uganda and work across East Africa.We are collective using art to champion human rights, drive social justice, and empower communities through festivals, murals, films, training, and advocacy.
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