GHV/CVF take part in inaugural ‘Arts Connekt’ Awards

Green Horizon Ventures (GHV) and Creative Visions Foundation (CVF) made a mark on Rwanda’s creative landscape with their key involvement in the 2024 Arts Connekt Awards, a major feature of the YouthConnekt Africa initiative.

Organized for the first time by Rwanda’s Ministry of Youth and Arts in collaboration with key partners, the Arts Connekt Awards aim to celebrate and elevate young creative talents across the region.

Represented by GHV CEO, Adam Bradford, and in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Arts, GHV and CVF are poised to strengthen Rwanda’s creative economy and broaden opportunities for young creatives throughout East Africa. The event drew an impressive crowd of nearly 2,000 attendees. Keynote speeches from the Minister of Youth and Arts, Dr. Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumatwishima, and Minister for ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, underscored the pivotal role of creative industries in driving Rwanda’s economic transformation.

GHV and CVF’s significant contributions to fostering the creative economy were recognized during the addresses. Minister Utumatwishima hailed both organizations as crucial partners in shaping the future of Rwanda’s youth. Over Rwf500 million ($500,000) in prizes were awarded across various creative categories. Notably, GHV CEO, Adam Bradford, presented the prestigious Rwf10 million Literary Arts Award to Joshua Biseruka, head of Umuraza Arts, whose captivating digital storytelling brings travel experiences to life—cementing his status as a powerhouse in Rwanda’s literary scene.

In solidifying their commitment, GHV and CVF have secured a three-year partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Arts. This strategic partnership will focus on advancing creative arts programming and expanding YouthConnekt’s impact in the years ahead. Despite joining the initiative at a later stage, this collaboration reflects a shared vision of nurturing talent across performing arts, literary arts, and beyond.

Leveraging GHV’s strategic capacity and CVF’s dynamic programming, the two organizations are ideally positioned to support Rwandan youth beyond the awards. Their partnership aims to build a robust network of creatives, aligning with Rwanda’s broader vision for a thriving creative economy. This collaboration promises not only recognition but also sustainable opportunities for young artists and entrepreneurs.

Looking forward, the potential to expand on the success of this initiative is immense. GHV and CVF are uniquely equipped to provide mentorship and business training for young creatives, offer tactical support for youth-led projects aligned with national development goals, and collaborate with government and international partners to establish sustainable funding mechanisms.

This year’s YouthConnekt Awards have not only cemented GHV and CVF’s influence in Rwanda’s creative sector but also forged essential connections with key stakeholders across Africa. Together, GHV and CVF are committed to shaping the future of Rwanda’s creative economy—where youth, creativity, and innovation take center stage.