Over 6,000,000 children and adolescents 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, war and displacement, 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.
Faces Up Uganda works with young people to overcome these barriers through a holistic, arts-based approach. We use art as therapy to support healing, emotional expression, and confidence building. Through artpreneurship, we help young people turn their creativity into sustainable income that supports education and livelihoods. We also apply design for change to inspire young people to create practical, community-driven solutions for the challenges they face, designed by young people, for young people, and for their communities.
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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