Empowering Communities Through Creative Arts
UCAF Nigeria harnesses the transformative power of art to drive community development, preserve culture, and empower the next generation of leaders.
Our Mission
To discover, nurture, and promote creative talent while empowering individuals through education, arts, culture, and innovation.
Our Vision
To be a global non-profit mentorship organization driving sustainable human capacity for impact.
Core Values
Who We Are
Founded in 2010, the Umam Creative Arts Foundation (UCAF) emerged from a desire to bridge the gap between creative talent and opportunity in Nigeria. We recognized that while talent is universal, opportunity is not.
Over the past decade, we have grown from a small community initiative in Lagos to a nationwide movement. Our programs range from visual arts workshops and music academies to digital design bootcamps, all aimed at equipping young Nigerians with the skills they need to thrive in the creative economy.
Our Journey Through Time
From humble beginnings to nationwide impact, trace the milestones that have defined our growth.
Organisation Founded
UCAF Nigeria is established in Zaria, Kaduna State — with a clear mandate to discover, nurture, and promote creative talent among young people in Northern Nigeria.
First Programs & PIGTEC
Delivered Career/Talent Workshops and the maiden PIGTEC exhibition — reaching 1,000+ school children and directly training 50+ students across 15 schools.
POPCAFEST24 & PIGTEC24
A landmark 3-day festival blending bootcamps, ABU excursions, competitions, and keynote sessions — directly empowering 70 students and indirectly reaching 2,000+ young people.
EduFest (Arewa Talent)
Transitioned to a TED-Ed–centred model; 150+ students directly engaged, 1,200+ indirectly reached. 82% showed improved idea articulation and 76% stronger problem-solving skills.
Meet Our Team
Dedicated professionals committed to driving the UCAF mission forward.
Dr. Ada Okoli
Executive Director
With over 15 years in non-profit management, Ada leads UCAF with passion and strategic vision.
Malik Ibrahim
Program Director
Malik oversees the implementation of all our creative workshops and community outreach initiatives.
Sarah Adebayo
Head of Operations
Ensuring UCAF runs smoothly, Sarah manages logistics, partnerships, and daily operations.
Be Part of the Movement
Whether you are an artist, a donor, or a volunteer, there is a place for you at UCAF Nigeria. Together, we can paint a brighter future.