Cart is empty Reason
Because every child and young person deserves the chance to learn, grow, and use their creativity and skills to contribute meaningfully to society.
About Us
The Custodians of African Literature Initiative (COAL) is a nonprofit improving education at the grassroots for children and supporting youth-led social change in the creative arts. Founded in 2017, we offer alternative youth development programming that promotes literacy, civic education, socio-cultural exchanges, creative arts, and gender equality.
We believe that the ability to read and write are fundamental for a young person’s success, making books essential for nurturing criticality in young leaders. We Work through an intersectional approach, acknowledging that structural barriers within society are both a contributing factor to and a result of broader inequality.
Our Vision
Quality education and creative skills for children and young people, without barriers.
Our Mission
Improving education at the grassroots for children and supporting youth-led social change in creative arts.
Our Approach
Literacy
We invest in grassroots educators and accelerated learning initiatives. These are local leaders deeply rooted in their communities and uniquely positioned to address the learning needs of vulnerable and marginalized children and youth. By harnessing their expertise, we contribute to broader systemic change, making education more accessible and impactful for underserved populations.
Youth Development
We create safe spaces for creative expression by organizing literary events such as creative writing workshops, book-to-film showcases, open mics, poetry slams, and book readings that celebrate African literature and promote author discussions. These initiatives empower youth to transform their experiences into compelling narratives, fostering healing and strengthening community cohesion.
Advocacy
Driven by evidence, we launch advocacy and media campaigns that promote access to quality education and key sustainable development challenges in Africa. These campaigns harness creative approaches and utilise diverse media platforms, including TV, radio, and social media, to amplify their reach. The aim of our campaign is to raise awareness and mobilise communities and decision-makers to prioritise and invest in the sustainable development of the continent.
Development Consulting
We enhance institutional capacity by providing services to private and development sector organisations in the area of corporate governance, strategy development, research, monitoring evaluation and learning (MEL), communications branding and training.
Values
Rooted — We start from the ground up, trusting in the power of local people and ideas. Creative — We use art, imagination, and bold thinking to solve tough problems. Driven — We show up, do the work, and push through challenges with purpose. Brave — We speak up, take risks, and stand for what’s right—especially when it’s hard. Real — We keep it honest, humble, and human in everything we do.
