AMAZON THEATRIX
ENSEMBLE (A.T.E)

Transforming Voices, Shaping Futures

Welcome to Amazon Theatrix Ensemble (A.T.E.) – A dynamic, youth-led organization dedicated to driving awareness and advocacy through the power of performing arts. Join us as we amplify voices and champion progress, one performance at a time.

Project s and Activities

"Storytelling for Change"

As part of Amazon Theatrix Ensemble (A.T.E.), the "Storytelling for Change" project embodies our mission to use the performing arts to create awareness and drive impactful advocacy within communities. This project is a vibrant platform where narratives come alive, capturing the struggles, hopes, and resilience of individuals facing societal issues such as reproductive health rights, mental health challenges, gender equality, climate change, and child protection.

Through Storytelling for Change, A.T.E. empowers voices that often go unheard, transforming personal experiences into powerful performances that engage audiences, spark dialogue, and encourage empathy. By weaving together elements of spoken word, theater, and media, this initiative brings critical topics to the forefront in ways that resonate deeply with diverse audiences. Our approach allows participants to connect with stories that reflect real-life challenges and, in turn, encourages communities to envision solutions and embrace change.Each performance is not just a presentation but a call to action. Storytelling for Change serves as a reminder that everyone’s story matters and has the power to inspire transformation. As we continue championing social justice and community empowerment through art, we invite you to join us in this journey, using the timeless art of storytelling to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

“Am not Yet Ripe”

The "Am Not Yet Ripe" program is a groundbreaking initiative that empowers adolescents and young girls to navigate and address Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). Through mentorship and life skills training, this program instills resilience, confidence, and awareness in young participants, preparing them to protect themselves and advocate for their rights. The initiative specifically targets adolescent girls and young women, groups that are often disproportionately affected by SGBV, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing, preventing, and seeking help when facing violence or exploitation.

The program also works to dismantle harmful societal norms that often perpetuate silence around SGBV. By fostering a supportive environment, "Am Not Yet Ripe" encourages girls to speak up, seek help when needed, and support each other in times of need. This mentorship model creates a ripple effect: as girls become more informed and empowered, they can become advocates within their communities, helping others break free from cycles of violence and ignorance."Am Not Yet Ripe" is more than just an SGBV sensitization program; it’s a transformative experience for young girls to develop a strong sense of self-worth, autonomy, and courage. Programs like this are essential to creating safer communities where young girls can grow, learn, and thrive without the threat of violence or abuse. Through continued mentorship, education, and a network of supportive referral pathways, ATE is helping to build a future where every girl has the tools and support needed to say, "I am not yet ripe – I have the right to live free from violence and make my own choices for a brighter future."

"Niskize Sikupenda Kwangu"

The “Niskize Sikupenda Kwangu” initiative serves as a beacon of hope, raising awareness about mental health challenges faced by women and girls. This program aims to destigmatize mental health struggles within communities and ensure that affected women and girls are supported with effective referral pathways. Recognizing the barriers to mental health care, including stigma and lack of resources, “Niskize Sikupenda Kwangu” advocates for open conversations and offers actionable solutions to connect individuals with the help they need.

The referral pathways established by “Niskize Sikupenda Kwangu” ensure that no one is left without guidance. By linking women and girls to trusted resources, mental health services, and peer support networks, the program not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a long-term support system within communities. This holistic approach acknowledges that mental health is deeply intertwined with a person’s social environment, making community-based support a powerful tool for healing.Ultimately, “Niskize Sikupenda Kwangu” empowers women and girls to take charge of their mental health and supports their journey to well-being with empathy and respect. It reminds us all of the importance of listening—truly listening—to those around us, as mental health issues often go unspoken. In creating awareness and promoting effective referrals, this initiative helps pave the way for a more supportive, compassionate, and resilient community for all.

“Youth Voices in Spaces”

In today’s interconnected world, youth are not just participants but essential drivers of social change, innovation, and leadership. The initiative “Youth Voices in Spaces” is dedicated to amplifying the voices of young people in important community and decision-making arenas. By creating platforms where youth can actively participate and influence societal issues, this movement recognizes that young people have unique perspectives and powerful ideas that can shape a brighter, more inclusive future.

One of the standout aspects of this initiative is its focus on inclusivity. Youth Voices in Spaces prioritizes the engagement of diverse youth, ensuring that all perspectives, including those from marginalized communities, are heard and respected. This inclusivity enriches the conversations and allows for the development of solutions that consider a wide array of experiences and needs.By actively involving youth in spaces where decisions are made, this initiative is reshaping traditional views of leadership and governance. It’s a step towards a future where youth are seen not just as beneficiaries but as co-creators of a sustainable, equitable world. Youth Voices in Spaces reminds us that empowering young people is not only an investment in the future—it’s a way to create immediate, impactful change that resonates throughout society.

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"voice of sango"

The "Voice of Sango - Lake Victoria" initiative is an innovative approach to tackling the pressing environmental issues impacting Lake Victoria. Recognizing that household waste generation significantly affects climate and local ecosystems, this project seeks to reduce plastic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions through a unique, arts-based approach. By utilizing performing arts—particularly theater and spoken word—as tools for social behavior change, the program educates and sensitizes communities on the importance of responsible waste management. The goal is clear: to protect Lake Victoria from pollution while fostering a culture of environmental consciousness.

The Voice of Sango not only brings awareness but also builds capacity among youth by training them in theater and spoken word. This dual-purpose approach empowers young people as creators and community change-makers, equipping them with skills to develop and deliver impactful artistic pieces that promote sustainable waste management practices. These youth-led performances act as mirrors to society, reflecting the consequences of pollution and showcasing practical solutions.Through storytelling and creative expression, The Voice of Sango envisions a future where young people and communities alike collaborate to protect Lake Victoria. By promoting awareness around proper waste segregation and plastic recycling, the project emphasizes how small, everyday actions contribute to broader environmental health. This awareness and community involvement are critical to reducing plastic waste, which frequently clogs wetlands, threatens aquatic life, and undermines the ecosystem's health. As these creative change-makers perform in Kisumu and beyond, they amplify the voices of vulnerable communities and foster dialogue around climate change adaptation and environmental responsibility.

"Vijana Vuka na Afya "
VIVA Project

The Vijana Vuka na Afya (VIVA) project is being implemented across three informal settlements
in Kisumu County: Manyatta, Obunga, and Nyalenda. The primary objective of this initiative is to
equip young people with accurate knowledge of Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights
(SRHR) and provide them with pathways to Technical and Vocational Education and Training
(TVET) institutions for practical skills development. By empowering youth with both SRHR
knowledge and employable skills, the project aims to foster independence, reduce risky
behaviors, and enhance positive contributions to the community.
DSW Kenya has partnered with Amazon Theatrix Ensemble to implement the VIVA project
specifically in Manyatta. As part of this collaboration, Amazon Theatrix Ensemble has trained
peer educators to share essential SRHR information within their community.

Amazon Theatrix Ensemble provides a safe space where young people can discuss issues
affecting them openly and without fear of judgment. In addition to SRHR education, the
ensemble facilitates referrals to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) support services
and family planning, enabling access to free health services for those in need.
Amazon Theatrix Ensemble has been at the forefront of empowering youth in Manyatta with
accurate SRHR information and creating pathways for skill development. To date, four young
people have successfully joined TVET institutions through the VIVA project, where they have
acquired the skills necessary to earn a living, avoid negative influences, and make productive
contributions within their communities.
The Vijana Vuka na Afya project, through its SRHR education, safe space initiatives, and
vocational linkages, has demonstrated a strong impact in empowering youth in Kisumu’s
informal settlements. By providing essential knowledge and skills, this initiative continues to
support young people’s journey toward self-sufficiency and a healthier, more productive future.

Tiko afrika

Amazon Theatrix Ensemble has been implementing the Tiko Africa project, aimed at reducing early pregnancies among girls aged 15-19 through accessible reproductive health services. This program provides essential support, including family planning, contraception, counseling, and HIV testing, directly within community health facilities. Mobilizers actively engage young girls and their families, encouraging them to take advantage of these services, which promote informed choices and healthier lives.
One key aspect of the Tiko Africa project is the establishment of Tiko Clubs. These clubs offer a safe space where girls come together to learn critical life skills and receive mentorship. Guided by trained mentors, girls in these clubs build self-esteem, foster peer support, and gain knowledge about reproductive health. The life skills gained through Tiko Clubs empower girls, helping them make informed decisions and resist peer pressure.

Since the project’s launch, awareness and service uptake have noticeably increased among the target group, with more girls accessing reproductive health services and contraceptive options at community facilities. Mobilization efforts have also succeeded in breaking down stigma and addressing misconceptions surrounding reproductive health services, leading to a supportive community environment.
Moving forward, Amazon Theatrix Ensemble aims to expand the reach of the Tiko Clubs and deepen community involvement by further engaging parents and local leaders. This will help sustain the program’s impact and promote healthier futures for young girls across the community.

ARTIVISM FOR DEMOCRACY-YOUTH VOICES IN SPACES

Artivism For Democracy”-Youth Voices in Spaces seeks to increase access to information through knowledge based approach on youth public participation of young people in democratic governance and development process as stipulated in the County Government Act No. 17 of 2012.The Programme consolidated existing efforts to empower young people with information on governance and leadership process through; 1) Community Participatory Educational Theatre(CPET) for dialogue creation with young people on Policy Formulations, Budget Making Cycle, County Budget Documents and Terms 2) Youth Voices In Spaces-Sauti Sanna Festival-Bringing Youths and Communities together to deliberate on Democracy Process(Performances and Panel Discussions on role of youth in Leadership and Governance 3) Radio Theatre and Talk shows to spark conversation with wider Carthasis of youth on democracy and governance with phone in sessions and experts deliberations.

Public Engagement Institution Strengthening

Public Engagement Institution Strengthening Project employs the use of Participatory Educational Theatre (PET) and Digital Storytelling in having conversations with Communities in the informal settlement of Manyatta in Kisumu on the intersection in Food system, Climate Change and Health
Our primary target audience are youth, women,lactating mothers (Mother's to Mother's Support Group therapy) and male champions
Our expected outcomes entails
1 Communities understanding the intersection in Food system, Climate Change,and health for economic development
2 Participant's capable of identifying with the methodologies of public Engagement and their art in engaging public on Food system, climate change and health
3 communities knowledgeable and can relate food system, climate change and healthThe project is supported by Africa Population and Health Research Center (APHRC)