Our story
From Nairobi's neighbourhoods to a global creative hub
Since 2010, Nafsi has grown one centre, one cohort and one partnership at a time.
2010
Nafsi Pamoja is born
A Community Based Organization is founded in Nairobi, bringing together modern artists from the city's informal settlements. “Nafsi” — Swahili for “soul” — names the mission.
Growing years
Arts across the communities
Weekly training in dance, music, acrobatics, circus and theatre takes root across Kariobangi, Babadogo, Kibera, Dagoretti and Kivuli.
International stages
Tours & cultural exchanges
Nafsi performers travel and connect with international audiences and partners including Kinder Kultur Karawane and Circus Foralle.
Historical projects — see partner records.
~2014
Spor Media partnership
A long collaboration with Spor Media begins — later celebrated as a 10-year partnership in 2024.
Anniversary date confirmed via Spor Media.
2020
Global Stay Tours launches
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and halted travel, GST uses digital media to connect youth across Kenya, Bolivia and Denmark.
Tangaza
Tangaza on Smartphone
A flagship digital-media initiative — supported by Spor Media and funded by CISU — empowers youth in filmmaking and storytelling, with a focus on young women. 208 young people reached.
NaiWave
NaiWave Studios
A podcast studio and online radio opens conversations on mental health, social justice and relationships — and becomes a cornerstone of Tangaza.
2024
10 years with Spor Media
Spor Media and Nafsi Africa celebrate a decade of partnership in smartphone reporting and online study tours.
2026 →
Reaching further
Tangaza aims to impact many more young people by the end of 2026, as Nafsi continues to grow as a global creative hub.
Your support creates opportunity
Art becomes confidence. Confidence becomes change.
Your support helps create a safe space where a young person can discover talent, develop skills and see a different future. Give once, or give monthly.