About the Program
Imagine a space where African creativity meets the curiosity of its youth — a place where libraries, once silent and overlooked, are reimagined as dynamic hubs of learning, dialogue, and cultural exchange.
Zingatia Muda — Swahili for “Consider the Time” — challenges us to rethink the role of libraries. Beyond being repositories of books, libraries can become arenas for workshops, performances, discussions, exhibitions, and innovation.
This program envisions libraries as community heartbeats—pulsing with youth voices, artistic expressions, and entrepreneurial energy. It is a call to action and a celebration of potential, showcasing how these spaces can drive knowledge-sharing, creativity, and policy influence.
Why Libraries?
» Accessible Learning Spaces: Libraries provide free or low-barrier access to resources that contribute to entrepreneurship, skills development, and lifelong learning.
» Catalysts for Innovation: For micro-preneurs, solopreneurs, and youth innovators, libraries offer platforms to test ideas and build futures.
» Community Hubs: By embracing cultural exchange, libraries can be lively spaces for dialogue, creativity, and collaboration.
Theme
“Reimagining the Library: Knowledge, Creativity & Community” The resident invites participants to explore how libraries can evolve into dynamic spacesfor education, expression, and empowerment.
Submission Categories
1. Comics & Graphic Novels –Creative storytelling challenging traditional notions of libraries.
2. Architectural Designs & Ideas – Concepts for innovative, inclusive library spaces.
3. Performing Arts – Music, dance, poetry, stand-up comedy, puppetry, and other
4. performances suitable for library environments.
5. Digital Content – Multimedia projects, interactive installations, and digital exhibitions.
6. Research Papers & Abstracts – Academic contributions (max 300 words) exploring libraries’ evolving role.
7. Visual Arts – Paintings, photography, sculpture, graffiti, and murals
Who Can Apply?
We welcome applications from emerging and established artists,podcast content creators, designers, curators, architects, performers, and creative thinkers who are eager to explore new approaches to public space, culture, and sustainability. Applicants should demonstrate a genuine interest in collaboration, experimentation, and sharing knowledge with others.
The residency is open to both local and international participants. We encourage application from individuals with diverse cultural, professional, and educational backgrounds. Interdisciplinary proposals are highly valued, as we believe that new ideas often emerge at the intersections of differen practices.
Accommodation and Studio Information
Residents will be provided with shared or private accommodation depending on availability. Each space is designed to be comfortable and supportive of creative focus
Shared Studio equipped with basic facilities for creative production, including desks, worktables, and shared tools. While the residency encourages artists to bring any special equipment they might need, we also provide connections to local artisans and workshops for additional resources. The environment is intended to encourage dialogue and collaboration while allowing each artist enough space for personal exploration
1. Visit: https: //linktr.ee/melatonintz
2. Follow our Instagram page (Link in Bio) for the Application Form and up dates.
3. Submit your proposal before the deadline. 20.09.2025
Selected residents will receive:
1. Accommodation and access to studio space throughout the residency.
2. Support materials and project development.
3. Guidance and mentorship from curators, local experts, and visiting professionals.
4. Opportunities to present work-in-progress through open studios, discussions, or public events.
5. Visibility and promotion through our communication platforms and networks.
Please note that international travel costs are not covered. However, we will provide full support inarranging and covering accommodation duringyour stay, as well as assistance with documentation for those seeking external travel funding.