Empowering Kibera’s Youth: Ahadi Corp and China Media Group Spotlight Creativity Through Cultural Collaboration
Ahadi Corporation, in partnership with China Media Group, ignited a vibrant celebration of art and cross-cultural unity at the Home of Kibra Ballerinas on January 28, 2025. The event honored eight young artists from Kibra whose exceptional designs triumphed in the Zigong Children’s Creative Lanterns International Design Project, while also commemorating Chinese New Year’s Eve & the symbolic arrival of the Year of the Snake.
Bridging Cultures Through Artistic Expression
The Zigong Lantern Project is a global initiative that nurtures creativity among young artists by inviting children worldwide to design lanterns for display at China’s renowned Zigong Lantern Festival. This platform celebrates artistic expression & provides young talent with international recognition, bridging cultures through the universal language of art.
This year, eight young artists from Kibra emerged as winners, showcasing their creativity through unique lantern designs. Their achievement highlights Kibra’s growing presence on the global art stage & strengthens cross-cultural exchange between Kenya and China.
The evening seamlessly blended Kenyan and Chinese traditions. Representatives from China Media Group, Mr. Ronald, taught attendees on the cultural significance of the Lunar New Year, including the symbolism of the Year of the Snake—a sign of wisdom & renewal—and other zodiac cycles like the Year of the Tiger.
Ahadi Corp’s CEO, Tiger, energized the crowd by teaching the Mandarin phrase “Xīnnián hǎo” (新年好, “Happy New Year”), underscoring the event’s spirit of connection.
Celebrating Excellence
The awards ceremony spotlighted the young visionaries, each receiving certificates, gift hampers, & hóngbāo—traditional red envelopes symbolizing luck and prosperity.
The grand prize winner was awarded KES 20,000, with additional financial rewards for fellow honorees. Recognizing the collective effort behind the students’ success, tutors & partnering organizations Art 360 & Future Within CBO were also celebrated with gifts & hóngbāo.
A Night of Unity
Guests savored Kenyan and Chinese cuisine, while vibrant performances by local artists amplified the energy. As attendees departed, they carried not only tokens of appreciation but also a belief in creativity’s power to transform lives.
This collaboration between Ahadi Corp and China Media Group reaffirms a shared commitment to nurturing global talent through cultural exchange. By bridging communities & elevating youth's, the event demonstrated that creativity knows no boundaries and when cultivated, it can illuminate futures on the world stage.
