Chairperson’s Statement
The Cynthia Zukas Young Artists Award 2025 – 4th Edition
The Cynthia Zukas Young Artists (CZYAA) was launched in 2020 to celebrate and honour Mrs Cynthia S. Zukas MBE (1931-2024) for her lifelong dedication to nurturing Zambia’s artistic talent. Now in its fourth edition, the Award continues to celebrate the creativity and innovation of young emerging visual artists across the country. In 2024, she received the President’s Insignia for Meritorious Achievement.
Since its inception, Lechwe Trust has proudly supported the Awards, providing a platform for young artists to showcase their work and gain public recognition. The biannual competition and finalist exhibition highlight the breadth and diversity of Zambian contemporary art, bringing together both newly discovered and lesser-known artists from across the nation.
This year, we are delighted to announce an increase in the prize money, made possible through the generosity of our long-time friend and art patron, Ms Betty Wilkinson, in memory of her daughter Bridgette Allingam. She has pledged to support the CZYAA and Lechwe Trust for two consecutive competitions recognizing the hardships young artists face, and the joy we have in expanding opportunities for them. Her two–cycle grant is an indication of her belief in young Zambian artists and the enduring vision of the Lechwe Trust. Ms Wilkinson has donated valuable works of art to our heritage collection, to which we are forever grateful.
This year’s CZYAA competition exhibition features 73 artists from across Zambia. From Lukulu in Western Province, Kasama in Northern Province, Kitwe on the Copperbelt, and, of course, Lusaka, presenting works in diverse media reflecting the enthusiasm and creativity of the country’s contemporary art scene. As we mark this important milestone, we celebrate the talent, resilience and imagination of Zambia’s emerging artists and the legacy of Cynthia S. Zukas MBE, whose spirit continues to inspire us all.
Mr William B. Miko
Acting Chairperson – Lechwe Trust
CZYAA 2025 1st Prize Suwilanji Simukoko, Brainwashing, photography print 594 x 445mm
CZYAA 2025 2nd Prize, Curtis Bwalya, Conteplating in the shadows
CZYAA 2025 3rd prize, Maria Shawa, Ubuntu, The 10th Edition
