Kennedy Nganga
Mombasa, Kenya
“Art has turned my life into a blessing.”
Kennedy Nganga is a Kenyan artist whose remarkable journey of resilience and creativity has inspired countless people across the globe. Born and raised in Mombasa, Kenya, Kennedy’s life took an unexpected turn in 1992 when, at the age of sixteen, he experienced a diving accident that left him with a spinal cord injury at the C3/4 level, resulting in quadriplegia. Though the injury profoundly altered his physical abilities, it never extinguished his spirit or determination to live a purposeful, creative life.
Unable to use his fingers for gripping, Kennedy discovered a new way to express himself through art. He taught himself to paint by wedging a brush between his fingers and mastering techniques that allowed him to translate his visions and emotions onto the canvas. Over time, painting became not only a therapeutic practice but also a vital means of livelihood and self-expression. Through his art, Kennedy communicates a deep sense of introspection, hope, and connection to the world around him. His works are often inspired by his environment, his dreams, the emotions he experiences, and the stories of others who, like him, find beauty in perseverance.
For Kennedy, art has become much more than a personal pursuit, it is a force for transformation. Through the Rise Up Gallery in Florida, led by artist David McCauley, Kennedy has worked to expand his creative practice, helping him reclaim independence and redefine what is possible within the limitations of his body. He often describes his journey as one of transformation from “a liability into a blessing,” reflecting his belief that adversity can lead to new forms of strength and purpose. Through his participation in the ArtLifting program, Kennedy has found a platform to share his work internationally, gaining recognition and support that enable him to sustain himself, his family, and his community.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Kennedy is also a passionate humanitarian and community leader. Following the loss of his mother in 2011, he established The Momma Kennedy and Friends Fund in her honor. The fund provides essential resources to individuals with disabilities and families in marginalized communities throughout the Mombasa region. Through this initiative, Kennedy and his supporters have donated cows, sewing machines, chickens, goats, clothing, and mobility aids to those in need. To date, the fund has distributed more than 200 goats and several cows, and has become a symbol of hope and solidarity for many living in poverty or with disabilities.
In addition to his philanthropic work through the fund, Kennedy has been actively involved with a community-based organization he has supported since 2012. What began as a small initiative has now grown to include over 750 members, creating a network of empowerment, education, and mutual support among people living with disabilities. Through his art sales, Kennedy helps fund educational programs for children with special needs, providing them with opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. Education and empowerment remain central to his mission, as he believes that giving others a chance to succeed is one of the most meaningful ways to create lasting change.
Kennedy’s art reflects both the challenges and triumphs of his life. His paintings often capture elements of his coastal environment- the light, the colors, the rhythms of daily life in Mombasa, infused with emotion and symbolism that speak to universal human experiences. He draws inspiration from dreams, personal reflection, and the works of other artists, blending these influences into pieces that are both deeply personal and widely relatable.
Through his creativity and compassion, Kennedy Nganga continues to redefine what it means to live a full and impactful life. His art tells a story of resilience, gratitude, and faith in the power of community.
