Utulivu AiR
APAO Village has shaped the Utulivu Space into a unique creative sanctuary designed to uplift and support female artists in East Africa, transforming the village into a space where nature, culture, and artistic expression meet to inspire bold, transformative work. Join us to collaborate on projects and research that empower marginalized women artists, amplify their voices, and transform lives through art.
Zena, 27, is an orphan from Morogoro, Tanzania. She lost both parents at age 7, became a mother at 17, and now raises three children alone in a rural village with no formal employment.
Despite her struggles, Zena is locally recognized as a gifted storyteller, crafting powerful narratives rich with emotion and culture. Through a family connection, we discovered her potential and invited her to join our residency.
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Her goal during the residency is to write 100 original stories that can be published and adapted into films or series—creating income for her family and inspiring her community. Support Zena, our second Artist in Residence, Sept-december, 2025.
Through the tireless efforts of Urithi Art, APAO Village has been transformed into an ideal space for creative retreat, now home to the Utulivu Art Residency.
Recognizing this transformation, Emerson Zanzibar Foundation has partnered with Urithi Art and APAO Village to launch the program. The foundation proudly sponsored Susan, a winner of the 2024 Emerson Visual Arts Award, as the first Artist in Residence at Utulivu art Residency, june-july,2025.
The Emerson Zanzibar Foundation (EZF) awarded the second from the left side (Miss Susan Eduadi Tomas, aka Suzy) the 2024 Visual Arts Award for her culturally rich works, including Mwari wa Unguja.
She earned a residency at U-AiR in Dar es Salaam and resources for future creations. The award celebrates female artists’ role in preserving Zanzibar’s heritage, with top winners featured in the 2025 Zanzibar International Film Festival and opportunities for global residencies.
Supporting Female Artists in East Africa
APAO Village Residency
APAO Village offers a serene retreat for artists, writers, and innovators. We provide half-price accommodation, free studio and exhibition space, and free Wi-Fi.
Artists cover meals, local transport, flights, health insurance, visa costs, art materials, and the remaining accommodation.
Together, we can also explore fundraising opportunities to support your stay.
Utulivu AiR - A Creative Haven for Artists
APAO Village is a cultural destination ideal for artists seeking inspiration and creativity. It is in a lush botanic garden and offers a calm environment "(U)tulivu" infused with Tanzania’s rich traditions and natural beauty. Utulivu AiR fosters collaboration between local and international artists, encouraging cultural exchange and innovation. Artists can participate in sustainability-focused workshops and cultural events, enriching their practice while contributing to the community. APAO Village is where art, culture, and environmental stewardship unite.
