Over 6,000,000 young people below 15 years in Uganda, experience persistent psychosocial distress, including trauma, low self-esteem, negative self-perception, social withdrawal, and emotional dysregulation. These challenges are driven by poverty, weak social support systems, and exposure to violence and abuse. Left unaddressed, they directly undermine young people’s ability to stay in school, learn effectively, and transition into productive adulthood.
They end up struggling academically and in life, not because they lack ability, but because emotional distress and life challenges affect their ability to learn and fulfil their true potential. At Faces Up, our impact model begins with healing through art-based psychosocial support, helping young people express emotions, build confidence, and feel safe. From this foundation, they are able to learn, developing creative skills, focus, and confidence in supportive environments. Their creativity then creates opportunities to earn. Through this journey: Heal, Learn, Earn, and Thrive, young people build resilience and the confidence to succeed at school and in life.ona
Traditional mental health and psychosocial support services, such as clinical and counselling, remain out of reach for many young people in underserved communities due to stigma, high costs, and limited availability.
Art-based psychosocial support offers a practical alternative. It is non-clinical, age-appropriate, culturally relevant, and adaptable, giving young people in disadvantaged settings a safe way to express emotions, manage distress, and rebuild a sense of control in their lives. When they have consistent, structured opportunities for creative expression in trusted spaces like schools, community centres, and care institutions, they can release emotional stress, process difficult experiences, and regain a sense of safety.
As their emotional security and self-expression grow, young people develop stronger coping skills, better social interaction, and improved engagement at school and in life.
By 2035, Faces Up will empower 100,000 vulnerable young people in Uganda to heal from trauma, gain new skills, and earn from their creativity. Helping them thrive in school and in life.
Share Faces Up’s impact with friends, family and networks. One small act can push our impact far further than you think.
You know someone we don’t. An introduction email could open a door we can’t reach alone.
If it’s within your means;
1: Buy merchandise or artworks to fund vulnerable children's education.
2: Make a donation today.
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