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Discovering New Artists

  • Who we are
    • Our Story
    • Our Mission
    • Our Vision
    • Leadership
    • Board of Advisors
    • Our Partners
  • What we do
    • Our Model
    • Program Areas
  • Our Programs
    • Art for Change
      • Art for Change Pakistan
      • Art for Change International
    • International Emerging Artist Challenge
    • Creative Workshops
  • Impact
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Who we are

We believe creativity transcends barriers, enabling people to reimagine possibilities and drive sustainable, positive change globally.

Our story

In 2010, a visit to small towns near Lahore revealed something unforgettable: overcrowded classrooms where children craved not just education, but the freedom to imagine and create. That experience with over 300 marginalized children ignited the idea for Discovering New Artists (DNA).

We realized that while infrastructure mattered, what these children needed most was a chance to express themselves, think critically, and design solutions for their future. Through art and design, we found a way to bridge two worlds - privileged and underserved - fostering creativity, confidence, and inclusivity.

What began as community workshops has grown into a social enterprise that empowers children and youth across Pakistan and beyond. Today, our one-for-one model enables students from elite schools to fund programs for underserved children, ensuring creativity and opportunity reach every corner.

Over time, we’ve transformed into a movement recognized globally, equipping over 162,000 children and youth with the skills to solve real-world challenges while promoting financial sustainability and long-term impact. Our journey is fueled by the belief that creativity is not a privilege, but a right - and a powerful tool to build a more equitable, sustainable world.

Our mission

Provide equitable access to art and design education, equipping children and youth globally with skills to foster creativity, inclusivity, and sustainable development in their communities.

Our vision

A world where every individual, regardless of background, accesses creative education, unlocking potential to shape inclusive, sustainable communities through art, design, and innovation.

We believe creativity is a universal right. Through art and design, we nurture imagination, inclusivity, and innovation, empowering children and youth to contribute positively toward a sustainable, equitable world.

Our team and partners

At DNA, our team is a blend of educators, designers, innovators, and changemakers united by one belief: creativity can transform lives. We work hand in hand with local communities, schools, and global partners to ensure every child has the opportunity to dream, create, and thrive.


Sidra Ali
Co-founder & Director Programs


Mujtaba Zaidi
Founder & Executive Director


Raza Zaidi
Director Media and Communications


Munaym Fatima
Programs Manager


Manahil Rehman
Studio Manager


Fatima Farhat
Studio Coordinator


Muhammad Asher
Design Coordinator


Murtaza Hussain
IT Support Manager


Min Wang
Outreach Ambassador China


Meredith Homaier
Outreach Ambassador Sweden

Our board of advisors

Our Board of Advisors brings decades of experience across education, social enterprise, business, and international development. Their expertise guides our vision, strengthens our strategy, and ensures our programs create lasting global impact.


Muhammad Atif Khan
Board of Advisor
Senior Artists and Art Educationist


Asad Hayee
Board of Advisor


Rukhe Neelofer
Board of Advisor


Zaeem Yaqoob Khan
Board of Advisor


Sophiya Anjum
Board of Advisor


Shanze Zohre
Board of Advisor


Sundas Azfer
Board of Advisor


Hurmat ul Ain
Board of Advisor


Shahnawaz Zaidi
Board of Advisor


Sajjad Kauser
Board of Advisor

Our partners and supporters

QCT
QYL

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