The Haynes Care Foundation has announced the discovery of a remarkable young talent during its recently concluded Haynes Dream and Skills Day – Teens Edition, which took place at Model Secondary School Senior, Tombia Street, GRA, Port Harcourt.
In a statement, the foundation said the event combined mindset coaching, future-planning sessions, and a focused Arts Talent Hunt, giving students a rare opportunity to express themselves on canvas.
It explained that under timed conditions, each student was required to paint a powerful image reflecting Africa and identity, a task designed to challenge creativity, confidence, and self-expression. According to the statement, out of all the works displayed, one painting stood out and captured the attention of everyone present.
“A bold portrait of an African woman wrapped in a vivid headscarf, framed by the map of Africa, stood out for its emotion, composition, and confident brushwork. Its creator, Uzoma Chibuikem Rex, a senior student of the school, was unanimously selected as the Outstanding Young Artist of the Day.
“This discovery was made under the expert guidance of the renowned art instructor, Mr Chikezie Innocent Chibuzor, whose professionalism, patience, and passion lifted the entire session.
Chibuzor not only taught technique; he helped the students see that art can be a real path, not just a pastime. Haynes Care Foundation proudly acknowledges his immense contribution to the success of the Arts Talent Hunt,” the statement said.
The foundation noted that Uzoma’s story goes beyond a single canvas, describing him as a symbol of countless Nigerian teenagers whose talents remain hidden in overcrowded classrooms and under-resourced art rooms.
It added that with the right support, including training, materials, and exposure, young artists like Uzoma can compete and excel on any stage. According to the statement, the foundation called on art schools, galleries, and creative hubs to offer mentorships, workshop placements, and training opportunities for Uzoma.
It also appealed to corporate organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to sponsor art materials, lessons, and possible scholarships for the young artist. In addition, the foundation urged media organisations and digital platforms to feature his work and amplify his journey.
“On December 5, in an ordinary school art room, a boy in a striped uniform quietly painted a picture that made a whole class believe in possibility again. That moment should not end as just ‘a nice event photo.’
“It can become the beginning of a new chapter—for Uzoma, for other hidden talents like him, and for a country whose greatest resources are still sitting behind school desks. If you believe Nigeria’s future artists deserve to be seen, this is your invitation to act,” the statement added.
