During the summer of June 2024, I had the privilege of interning with the Art for Children Foundation (A4C), a non-profit organization based in Naivasha, Kenya. This experience was transformative, in shaping my professional journey and reigniting my lifelong passion for creating meaningful change through policy and research.
Art has always been more than just an outlet for creativity; it’s a powerful tool for transformation. Growing up, I marveled at how creativity could bring people together, bridge divides, and inspire hope. This summer, I saw that transformative power in action. Joining the Art for Children Foundation was not just about contributing to a cause, it was about becoming part of a mission to uplift children and communities through the boundless potential of creativity.
One unforgettable moment was witnessing a showcase event where children performed dances, displayed their artwork, and shared their stories. Watching their pride as the audience cheered reminded me of art’s unique ability to spark hope and instill confidence. In those moments, I saw firsthand how creativity can transcend barriers, ignite resilience, and empower individuals to dream beyond their circumstances.
The Organization’s Mission
The Art for Children Foundation is committed to empowering underprivileged children by nurturing creativity, building confidence, and fostering essential life skills through the arts. Its programs span performing and visual arts, mentorship, and more, offering not only creative outlets but also tools for resilience and personal growth.
By providing a safe space for children to learn, express themselves, and dream big, A4C addresses pressing social issues such as youth unemployment, lack of access to education, and crime. This mission resonates deeply with me, as I strongly believe in the transformative power of education and creative expression.
My Role as a Research Analyst
As a Research Analyst intern, my role focused on supporting A4C’s mission through in-depth research and strategic recommendations. I evaluated the effectiveness of their arts-based programs, identified opportunities for growth, and delivered data-driven insights to enhance their impact.
One key area of focus was how A4C’s initiatives supported the mental health and emotional well-being of children. Through interviews and surveys with participants and their families, I gained direct insights into the challenges they face and the successes they achieve. These findings were instrumental in tailoring programs to better meet their needs.
Additionally, I explored the sustainability of A4C’s efforts by analyzing funding models, donor engagement strategies, and scalability options. For example, I helped develop strategies to expand program reach by 20% without incurring additional costs, ensuring that more children could benefit from A4C’s resources.
How My MPP Background Made a Difference
My academic training in public policy equipped me with critical analytical tools that were invaluable during my internship. Courses on program evaluation, policy analysis, and community development taught me to approach challenges methodically and propose actionable solutions.
For instance, I used cost-benefit analysis techniques to measure the return on investment for A4C’s mentorship initiatives. By quantifying benefits like improved academic performance and increased self-confidence relative to program costs, I presented a compelling case for continued donor support.
Additionally, my coursework in stakeholder engagement helped me navigate conversations with a diverse range of individuals, from organizational staff to community members. Working in Kenya further taught me the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability in ensuring that my recommendations were relevant and practical.
Reflections on the Internship
One of the most rewarding aspects of my internship was witnessing the tangible impact A4C has on children’s lives. Seeing young people gain confidence, discover new talents, and express themselves creatively was inspiring.
A highlight of my experience was the ‘Creative Minds Workshop,’ where children made paintings to transform their art centers into a vibrant, welcoming spaces. These paintings became symbols of hope and inspiration, reflecting the children’s resilience and creativity. Such moments reinforced my commitment to using research and policy as tools to support underserved populations.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Like any meaningful experience, my internship came with challenges. One major hurdle was working within the constraints of limited resources. As with many non-profits, A4C operates on a tight budget, relying heavily on donor generosity and volunteer efforts. This required innovative thinking to find cost-effective solutions that delivered meaningful results.
Adapting to a new cultural and organizational context was another challenge. Working in Kenya taught me to listen—truly listen—to the lived experiences of the communities we aimed to serve. Effective policies and programs are grounded in local realities, shaped by the voices of those they impact most. This lesson has fundamentally shaped how I approach policy work.
Conclusion
My internship with the Art for Children Foundation was a transformative journey that allowed me to apply my academic training in a real-world context. It was a privilege to support an organization making such a profound difference in the lives of children.
Beyond the technical skills I gained, this experience reaffirmed the power of creativity and community in driving social change. You can also play a part in this transformative journey. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply sharing A4C’s stories, your support can bring hope and opportunity to children who need it most.
Author: Bethen Onah is a dual degree Master’s student in Public Policy and Business Administration at the University of Chicago. With a professional foundation in marketing and a passion for policy. Bethel is committed to leveraging business strategies to address complex social challenges: Whether working on public policy research or leading marketing initiatives, Bethel aims to create sustainable solutions at the intersection of the private and public sectors.
