By E, KNA
The desire for safe spaces to find emotional and financial support, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging is what every youth requires in today’s ever-changing world. Such spaces enable them to discover, nurture, and explore their talents, turning them into sources of livelihood.
It is against this backdrop that a group of youth in Eldoret City, Uasin Gishu County, came together to brainstorm ideas and strategies, eventually forming an entertainment hub known as the Alnoor Theatre Network. Through this initiative, they aim to turn creative talents into sustainable income by staging performances in edutainment, drama, playbooks, comedy, and other artistic works.
In an interview with KNA, Alnoor Theatre Network Director Salfaraz Zahir said the idea to form the group arose in November 2023 with the goal of establishing a unified platform to tap and showcase diverse talents. The initiative also targets vulnerable youth and talented individuals from the streets who often lack access to theater opportunities.
He lauded the group’s unity, saying it has helped members during difficult times. “It is like a family, helping each other in times of need, offering both emotional support and financial assistance,” he noted.
Echoing his sentiments, Stage Manager Faith Kimani underscored the key role the theater plays in promoting personal growth, life skills, and stronger communities. She explained that their performances address themes such as education and health. “Through this platform we gain a space for self-expression and creativity. Music and drama provide numerous cognitive, emotional, social, and economic benefits,” she said.
For actor Kevin Kyalo, the group has been transformative. “They are like a family. They empower and encourage me to excel in theater performances and explore my talents to earn income,” he said.
Actress Mercy Bett added that the platform promotes positive social interactions while protecting youth from harmful behaviors such as drug and alcohol abuse. “We get support and growth physically, economically, and socially. The little you earn helps you buy food and pay bills,” she noted.
Despite these benefits, the young artists face challenges in acquiring equipment, mentorship, and access to facilities for training and practice. “The journey hasn’t been easy. We have struggled a lot, but we remain hopeful. Sometimes we are invited to perform at events but fail to attend due to logistical challenges,” Zahir admitted.
Still, the group has made progress. From modest income, they have purchased equipment such as a camera for productions. “We appeal for more help in training, access to advanced theater productions, and more facilities so that we can leverage our talents and improve our livelihoods,” he added.
Production Manager Esther Ndung’u highlighted the skills needed to excel in theater, including creativity, fluency in English and Swahili, time management, availability, and a positive mindset. She acknowledged challenges such as logistical constraints, limited funds, unavailability of cast members who are still schooling, and reluctance from stakeholders to support the youth center.
Collins Kipyego, a comedian, urged the government to provide mentorship, training, and linkages to other theaters across the country. “This would allow us to exchange skills, attract sponsorship, and explore our talents both locally and internationally,” he said.
The youth also advocated for the establishment of a regional creative hub in Eldoret, modeled on the Kenya National Theatre in Nairobi. Such a facility, they argued, would provide rehearsal spaces, host auditions, nurture new talent, and make productions accessible to national and international audiences through tours, broadcasts, and digital platforms.
According to the artists, the hub would bring together performers to rehearse and perfect their work, preparing them for larger events while boosting cultural vibrancy in the region.
SMATKEY group Chairperson Collins Kemboi, representing Soy, Moiben, Ainabkoi, Turbo, Kapseret, and Kesses sub-counties, emphasized the importance of strong social networks. “Youth contribute to cultural diversity through artistic expression, music, and fashion. Addressing their needs unlocks their potential and channels their energy and creativity toward national development,” he said.
Kemboi added that active participation in theater equips youth with new skills, fosters economic growth, and strengthens national identity by reflecting societal values through performances.
Kipkorir Ngetich, Director of the Center for Human Rights and Democracy, emphasized that artists are role models whose messages influence society. “They shape opinions on issues such as family, education, and marriage. Artists can provide youth with important information, though at times negative attitudes or behaviors by some may mislead young people,” he cautioned.
Ngetich argued that creating platforms for youth to explore their talents and earn income is vital for enhancing their role in socio-economic development. “Supporting youth-led initiatives amplifies their voices and provides opportunities for collective action. Positive role models and mentors are essential in guiding young people,” he added.
Through the Alnoor Theatre Network, Eldoret youth are determined to transform creativity into a source of livelihood while shaping their community through performance and art.