In a region where patriarchal sociocultural norms often limit opportunities for girls and young women, we’re encouraging them to showcase their talents, learn new skills, express themselves, and build confidence.
In Chitral, the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board organized an arts competition, as part of a broader initiative to provide sports and arts opportunities in the community. This competition brought together young women and girls to showcase their talents and express global warming through art.
Alisha, in grade 4, secured first place in the competition with artwork that embodied the stark effects of climate change by carefully using colour and illustration.
She drew two depictions of the world to express her concerns and hopes for the environment. One half shows a grey, polluted city, with industrial structures and hazy skies. The other is a colourful and vibrant community surrounded by nature.
Art is a powerful medium for sustainability and education. Through creative self-expression, art and culture can empower young people like Alisha to learn about and engage with challenging topics like inequality and environmental degradation.
In a community like Chitral where the impacts of climate change are increasingly prevalent, this program helps instill a sense of environmental consciousness and helps young people voice their concerns and aspirations for the future.