AAFIN’s A Quiet Storm engages youths in arts

THE 2025 edition of the Heart 4Life Children Art Exhibition Festival, themed “A Quiet Storm,” was a remarkable celebration of youthful creativity, organised by the Alternative Arts Friendly Initiative Network (AAFIN). Held on June 28th, 2025, at Alliance Française Ibadan, Oyo State, the event showcased the subtle yet powerful artistic expressions of young talents, demonstrating how quiet creativity can spark profound societal change.

Earlier, on June 22nd, 2024, AAFIN held a pivotal workshop themed “Society and Crime” that engaged young people, educators, and community stakeholders in candid discussions about the underlying social factors contributing to youth involvement in crime.

The workshop, with support from Educare Trust, as well as the collaboration of Alliance Française, highlighted how issues such as neglect, marginalization, and unaddressed emotional struggles often simmer quietly beneath the surface, unnoticed yet potent. Participants explored how these silent pressures, if left unchecked, can escalate into more significant social problems, including delinquency and unrest. The workshop emphasized the urgent need for early intervention through creative outlets and community support to redirect this latent energy towards positive growth.

The exhibition theme “A Quiet Storm” symbolically captures this phenomenon—the subtle, often invisible challenges and emotions within children and communities that, like a storm gathering strength in silence, have the potential to erupt if ignored. It represents a warning and a call to action: these quiet struggles are not harmless; they are powerful forces that, when left unaddressed, can lead to destructive outcomes. However, when recognized and nurtured through art and empathy, this “storm” becomes a transformative energy, capable of inspiring resilience, hope, and social renewal. The festival thus serves as a platform to channel this quiet yet formidable force into creative expression that fosters healing and positive change.

This year’s theme was chosen deliberately as a continuation and deepening of conversations started during that earlier workshop held by AAFIN.

The workshop explored how the often-unseen struggles, emotions, and hopes of children can build into a powerful force for change—much like a silent storm gathering strength beneath the surface before making its impact felt.

The theme invites participants and audiences alike to recognise and appreciate the latent power in youthful voices that may not always be loud but are no less significant.

Mr Bamidele Adegboyega, the Convener, a multidisciplinary and teaching artist, opened the festival with a passionate address:

“The arts serve as a powerful tool for change through channeling youthful energy into creative expression rather than destructive behaviour.”

He emphasised that art provides a safe space for children to explore emotions, build confidence, and develop empathy, encouraging positive peer interactions and instilling essential values such as respect, responsibility, and resilience.

Also, Mr. Everest Ibitokun, representing Alliance Française, Ibadan, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to nurturing creativity and the boundless imagination of young minds, believing in fostering creativity and cross-cultural dialogue through the arts. He expressed:

He said: “Each piece tells a story, and collectively, they form a quiet yet compelling storm of ideas, emotions, and dreams.”

In his speech, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Honourable (Dr) Wasiu Olatunbosun, reaffirmed government’s commitment to cultural development and youth empowerment through the arts.

ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE: Cautious optimism as INEC braces up for CVR exercise

The Commissioner who was represented by Mr Adeyemi Adeleye lauded AAFIN’s efforts in promoting artistic excellence and called for increased partnerships between government agencies, educational institutions, and cultural organizations. The Commissioner emphasized that supporting initiatives like the Heart 4Life Festival is vital for the promotion of cultural tourism and harnessing the creative potential of Nigeria’s youth.

The Chief Guest of honour, Mr. Sadiq Olatunji, Chairman of the Labour Party, Oyo State, described the programmme as a collage of ideas that can develop the mindset of children. He emphasized the importance of engaging children in creative activities to build a sustainable values system, which can ultimately benefit society.

Mr. Folorunsho Moshood, Programme Director, Educate Trust, Ibadan, delivered the keynote address. He highlighted the critical role of nurturing children’s creativity as a catalyst for societal growth and innovation, urging stakeholders to invest in youth arts programs and emphasizing that creative empowerment is essential for both individual and community development.

The festival featured captivating performances from seven shortlisted schools: Immanuel College High School Junior, St. Catherine’s College, International School, U.I., Lead British International School, Maverick College, Success Model College, and Adunlekan International Academy. Each school presented artworks and performances reflecting the festival’s theme, with titles such as The Slow Burn, Silent Whisper, Peer Pressure, and The Wrong Path.

Poetry recitations were a highlight, with Mrs. Olabisi Adegoke delivering a moving piece on resilience amid adversity, Mr. Sotanmide Moses exploring the silent battles of youth, and Alhaji Abdulsalam El Mubashir presenting a powerful poem on societal transformation.

A special guest performance by renowned saxophonist Mr. Ajibade Adeife infused the event with soulful melodies, captivating attendees and complementing the festival’s contemplative atmosphere.

Mr. Solomon Moriss, Project Director of AAFIN, appealed for financial support from individuals, organizations, and the Oyo State government, noting that financial constraints limited the scope of the festival despite the evident passion and talent of the young artists.

Awards were presented to outstanding contributors: Peter Favour from Maverick College received ₦20,000 sponsored by Mr. Olatunji Sadiq; Abokede Esther of International School was awarded ₦15,000 sponsored by Princess Christiana Adetola Akpata; and Michelle Daramola from Lead British International School earned ₦10,000 sponsored by Mrs. Soremilekun. St. Catherine College and Success Model College were recognized for their unwavering support and dedication to nurturing artistic talents. Mr. Victor Ijejeme of St. Catherine College was honored for his motivation, resilience, and commitment to inspiring students in the arts.

Speaking at the occasion, A former Head of Channel, Ajilete FM, Ogbomoso, Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo state, BCOS, Alhaji Adejare Bamidele, urged Oyo State Government, particularly the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, to adopt and support AAFIN’s initiatives to help unlock their full potential. He advised the state government to establish cultural clubs in primary and secondary schools, adding that this initiative will reawaken the cultural values among the youths.

The festival also highlighted the need for greater enthusiasm among art teachers and schools to fully embrace and promote student talents. As the Yoruba adage goes, “Igikanko le da igbo se”—a tree cannot make a forest. Only through collective effort can the true potential of young artists be realized.

The 2025 Heart 4Life Children Art Exhibition Festival was a profound testament to the power of youthful creativity to inspire and transform. By engaging children in the arts, the festival demonstrated a hopeful path away from crime and social unrest toward a future filled with creativity, resilience, and positive growth.

As Convener Bamidele Adegboyega eloquently stated:

“A Quiet Storm is more than a theme; it is a call to awareness and action. Beneath the surface of every child lies a powerful potential for change. Through art, we can help steer them towards creativity, hope, and a future free from crime.”

Together, through sustained support and collaboration, the festival promises to continue being a meaningful platform for social transformation, nurturing the next generation of creative minds and responsible citizens.

Art, after all, is not just a reflection of society—it is a force that shapes it.