Linus Ngha Beng Kwokom

1.44 Art Education as Tool in Diversity, Inclusivity and Conviviality in Unexpected Territories (Paper)

Linus Ngha Beng Kwokom – Community Youth Arts Center (COYAC), Cameroon

Abstract:

I am Ngha Beng Kwokom Linus, also known as Bobo Leennox, a visual, graphic, and performing artist from Bamenda, Cameroon. I am dedicated to empowering marginalized communities through art. As the founder of the Community Youth Arts Center (COYAC), I represent underrepresented artists from the North West Region of Cameroon and the Global South. My work is particularly relevant in the context of the ongoing Anglophone Crisis, and other crisis in Africa which has severely disrupted education and social structures, leaving children without schooling for over eight years.

The theme of the InSEA 38th World Congress, “UNEXPECTED TERRITORIES,” resonates deeply with my journey as an artist and community activist. I emphasize the transformative power of art in healing, education, and social justice, particularly in conflict-affected areas. I intend to foster dialogue and collaboration among diverse communities, advocating for inclusivity and the recognition of art as a vital tool for resilience and empowerment.

Through workshops and creative expression like this, I seek to engage youth in exploring their identities and experiences, thereby promoting community resilience and social justice. My initiatives not only aim to combat stigma surrounding the arts but also to create sustainable practices that support cultural development. By participating in the congress, I hope to share insights and strategies that can be adapted to my community's context, ultimately inspiring a new generation of artists and advocates for change. My commitment to using art as a means of expression and healing underscores the importance of cultural activism in addressing social injustices and fostering a sense of belonging in marginalized communities.