Good food and art both nourish the human experience. While the former sustains us physically, the latter enriches our souls, inspiring us and connecting us to deeper emotions, meanings, and shared human experiences. This synergy was at the heart of the “Sip and Paint” event organised by Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) on August 21, where young people gathered to paint, enjoy healthy drinks, and discuss their role in advocating for policies that prioritize the reduction of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases—conditions often linked to poor diets and excessive consumption of unhealthy foods
Amid a vibrant atmosphere of art and entertainment, the event also served as a unique platform for the CAPPA team to engage with the youth, providing insights into key thematic areas of our work, including public health advocacy, climate and environmental justice, public water access, and education for all. The discussions particularly centered on raising awareness about the dangers of unhealthy diets and habits, such as the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), trans fats, and smoking.
In keeping with the theme of healthy living, the refreshments provided at the event were natural and nourishing, proving that fun can be had without the consumption of sugary-sweetened beverages (SSBs) or alcohol, which are often linked to harmful health outcomes. Instead, the youths enjoyed a variety of fresh fruits, smoothies, and natural drinks, showcasing how healthier alternatives can be enjoyable and still create an exciting social atmosphere.
As the discussions flowed, so did the participant’s creativity, as they immersed themselves in their art projects, using painting as a medium of entertainment and self-expression. The finished pieces were beautiful, fun, and deeply reflective, offering of unique interpretations of how individuals can adopt a healthy dietary lifestyles and what actions policy makers take to safeguard Nigeria’s food environment.
The highly engaging event left participants with a strong conviction that creativity and healthy habits can coexist, serving to build a generation of young people who are not only health-conscious but also inspired to make a positive impact on their communities.
