At Eljay Productions, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling and art to drive social change. The Dada Next Door project is an inspiring initiative that amplifies the voices of female artivists, showcasing their contributions to advocacy, activism, and cultural development. Spanning from November 2023 to January 2024, the project empowered artists to use their craft to challenge societal norms and inspire positive change. Here’s a look at our journey.

Dada Next Door recognizes that artivism—using art for activism—plays a critical role in addressing socio-economic, cultural, and political issues. This initiative aimed to create a consistent platform for female artivists in Kenya, enabling them to share their stories and experiences. The project’s objectives were to amplify women’s voices, promote social change, and build a supportive community of like-minded creatives.

A key component of the project was the two-day storytelling workshop held in December 2023. The workshop, attended by 28 participants at the Ngong Hills Hotel, Nairobi, focused on building skills in storytelling, digital content creation, and strategic communication. Facilitators with backgrounds in performance art, media production, and social activism shared their expertise, helping participants learn how to pitch for support, structure their projects, and use digital platforms for a broader impact. With hands-on studio sessions and engaging discussions, the workshop inspired participants to continue their journey as impactful storytellers.

Throughout the project, Dada Next Door produced 16 podcast and vodcast episodes featuring diverse female creatives. From spoken word artists like Wangui Kimani to disability media activist Dr. Jackline Lidubwi, the episodes highlighted how art can be used to address issues such as gender-based violence, mental health, and social justice. Each episode aimed to spark conversations, challenge stereotypes, and foster a deeper understanding of social issues.

Promotion and outreach were integral to the project’s success. Utilizing platforms like YouTube, Spotify, Facebook, and Instagram, Dada Next Door reached approximately 67,000 people across Kenya and beyond. Our content resonated with a diverse audience, including grassroots artivists and the general public, who were inspired by the stories of resilience and activism. The project’s online community platform continues to provide resources, training materials, and networking opportunities for artists seeking to expand their impact.

As the Dada Next Door project wraps up its initial phase, the momentum is far from over. Eljay Productions remains committed to supporting emerging voices and fostering a culture of artivism. We plan to continue promoting our content across social media, collaborating with influencers, and organizing more workshops to empower women artists. With a dedicated online platform and a growing community, Dada Next Door aims to keep driving change, one story at a time.

Visit Dada Next Door and follow us on YouTube, Spotify, Facebook, and Instagram to experience the powerful stories that are shaping the future of artivism in Kenya.