Photo: Still from a short film for World Health Organization - iMind on mental health Malawi is facing many challenges, such as poverty, lack of healthcare, and limited education. However, social artistry is becoming a powerful way to address some of these problems. Social artistry means using creative forms like art, music, dance, and theater to bring awareness, inspire action, and solve social issues. Social art in Malawi is used by artists, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and communities to raise awareness on important issues, educate people, and create stronger bonds in society. Let me share with you what I found about how social artistry is making a difference in Malawi. What actually is social artistry? Social artistry is a mix of art and social change. Instead of just creating beautiful things, social artists focus on using their work to help solve problems. In Malawi, it’s not just about the artists themselves but also about getting communities involved in using art for good. These artists and groups are working on health awareness projects, helping people talk about social issues, and building stronger communities. Social artistry is popular in Malawi because it’s a creative and effective way to reach people, especially those who might not get much information otherwise. It's used by individuals and groups to educate, inspire, and get people to think about important social topics. How social artistry helps educating about health Malawi has serious health problems, like HIV/AIDS, malaria, high infant mortality and mental health problems. Social artistry helps in educating people about health in a way that’s appealing and easy to understand. Traditional health education, like giving out flyers or holding workshops, doesn't always reach everyone, especially in rural areas where many people can’t read. That’s where social artistry comes in. For example, drama groups put on plays about mental health issues, vaccinations, and pregnancy care. These performances are often in local markets or village squares, so they’re easy for everyone to attend. The plays mix humor and drama to share important health messages in a way that sticks. Social artistry helps in educating people about health in a way that’s appealing and easy to understand. Groups like Pakachere Institute of Health and Development Communication  send theater groups to rural areas to perform skits on things like safe sex, gender-based violence, and family planning. These shows don’t just tell people what to do; they make it entertaining and relatable, so people pay attention. After the performances, there’s often a discussion, giving the audience a chance to ask questions. By using social artistry, health messages are delivered in a way that’s easy to understand, even for people who can’t read or don’t have access to health services. Empowering women and girls through art In Malawi, women and girls often face serious challenges, such as early marriage, gender-based violence, and limited access to education. Social artistry is helping women and girls find their voices, feel empowered and fight for their rights. Photo: ©Renée de Vink - Portrait of Rita Social art programs in Malawi give women and girls the space to express themselves and talk about the issues they face. The Girls Empowerment Network (GENET) runs creative workshops where girls use art, poetry, and storytelling to discuss problems like child marriage and abuse. These workshops give them the confidence to speak out and take action in their communities. It's a boost for their self-esteem and confidence. Renée de Vink, co-founder of Capa Capa, uses photography as a tool to empower female housemaids who didn't get the opportunity to receive an education. After being proudly and gracefully portrayed, the women receive a print of their photo. It's a boost for their self-esteem and confidence. By being creative, girls are finding a way to tell their own stories and advocate for their rights. These programs are important because they show girls that they can dream big and change their futures. Using film to address mental health problems Mental health is a growing concern in Malawi, especially with the stigma surrounding issues like depression, anxiety, and trauma. Many people don’t seek help because mental health isn’t widely discussed, and there’s often a lack of understanding around it. Social artistry, particularly through film, is starting to change this. Films and documentaries are being used to open up conversations about mental health in a way that’s relatable and accessible. By telling the stories of real people who have faced mental health challenges, filmmakers in Malawi are helping break down the stigma. Movies allow people to see that they aren’t alone in their struggles and that mental health is just as important as physical health. Filmmakers in Malawi are helping break down the stigma. Together with the World Health Organization iMind , Dirk Zekveld, co-founder of Capa Capa, created a short film about mental health. It won several awards for its unique approach, sparking important conversations about how to seek help and support one another when facing mental health issues. Film has the power to reach a wide audience and tackle sensitive topics like mental health in a way that is engaging and educational. By using film, social artistry is helping people better understand mental health and encouraging more open discussions across Malawi. Challenges and the future of social artistry in Malawi While social artistry is making a big difference in Malawi, there are still challenges. Lack of funding, infrastructure issues, and political instability can limit the success of these programs. Despite these obstacles, the potential of social artistry is huge. With more support and collaboration between artists, NGOs, and local communities, social artistry can grow and continue to make a positive impact on Malawi. Let's do the Capa Capa! Social artistry is playing an important role in Malawi’s growth. Through creative ways of raising awareness, promoting mental health, and empowering women, social artistry is tackling some of the country's biggest challenges. Let's do the Capa Capa together: by supporting and expanding social artistry projects, Malawi can build a brighter future for all its people. Are you intersted in creating with us? Get in touch!

Good storytelling makes it personal, so your audience can relate. Still from Restoring Broken Lives To connect with your donors and inspire action, stories are one of the most powerful tools for your NGO in Malawi. Professional filmmaking and photography are key ways to tell these stories effectively. But why take it to the next level? We give you 5 reasons why working with local professional filmmakers and photographers is so important for your NGO. Here we go! 1. Visuals grab attention fast People scroll through tons of content every day. To stand out, your visuals need to be eye-catching. High-quality photos and films created by professionals can stop people mid-scroll. A great shot can grab attention and stick in someone’s mind. Professionals know how to use lighting, color, and composition to create visuals that not only look good but also hold the viewer’s attention . 2. Stories that make donors feel part of the solution Donors give when they feel emotionally connected to your cause. Filmmakers and photographers are experts at creating that connection through stories. They know how to show challenges, hope, and impact in a way that moves people to take action. Personal stories bring abstract numbers to life. For example, an organization helping prisoners getting back to their community after duty is done. Showing the prisoner locked, trained in becoming a tailor and back at his community. This type of storytelling makes donors feel they’re part of the solution. It makes a complex story easy to relate to. 3. Authenticity builds trust The best way to share stories is from within and not from an outside perspective. Local filmmakers and photographers know their culture and language, they build trust with the people being filmed and know how to keep content real while still making it look great.  Authentic visuals help donors trust that their contributions are making a real difference. 4. Quality reflects your organization The quality of your visuals says a lot about your NGO. Poor-quality photos or videos can make your organization look unprofessional, even if your work is amazing. High-quality visuals, on the other hand, show that you’re serious and competent. A professional film director, cameraman and photographer ensures your content reflects your mission and values, leaving a positive impression on donors . 5. A smart long-term investment Hiring pros might seem expensive, but it’s worth it. High-quality photos and videos can be reused across platforms like social media, reports, and events. They also strengthen your brand and help you attract more donors over time . Think of it as an investment that keeps paying off. Videographer Tavwana Chirwa and film director Dirk Zekveld working on a film. Foto: Jan-Willem Barth Why it matters Professional filmmaking and photography aren’t just about pretty pictures. They’re about creating meaningful connections. They help you share your story, build trust, create awareness and inspire action. With the help of a skilled filmteam, you can make sure your message stands out and resonates with donors. Capa Capa works with the best local professionals in Malawi , keeping quality high through mutual learning on cultural differences, soft and hard skills. Getting the best visuals from high-end equipment. As we are a non-profit organization, you keep your costs low. Working with Capa Capa means you give local professionals a chance to grow on their skills and portfolio. Let’s get in touch and learn how we can create a visual story for your purpose driven organization.