Every child has a voice. Mine speaks through art.
I am Jesse Ellis — a young artist, First Lady Mazingira Award Champion and Art of Sustainability Ambassador. I craft stories about nature, culture and the future we can still choose.
© Jesse Ellis
First Lady Mazingira Awards (FLAMA-2024) , Jesse Ellis — environmental art and conservation advocacy
Impact
Art that reaches beyond the canvas
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Exhibitions presented
As of 2024
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Speaking highlights
Schools and impact forums
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People reached physically
Through exhibitions, schools and forums
Beyond the room
Jesse’s impact does not stop when an exhibition or speaking session ends. Through digital platforms, his artwork and environmental message can reach audiences far beyond those he meets in person.
Selected works
From canvas to conversation
© Jesse Ellis
My Hat, My Shelter, My Story
© Jesse Ellis
The Hundredth Dawn of Our Bongos
© Jesse Ellis
JEL vs The Plastic Menace
© Jesse Ellis
Artist statement
“Art can help us imagine the future before we build it.”
Every painting, drawing and creative project begins with curiosity — nature, wildlife, people, everyday moments. I experiment with colour, texture and new ideas to turn imagination into artwork that tells a story and carries a message of hope for our planet.
Read my storyRecognition
First Lady Mazingira Awards (FLAMA)
© Jesse Ellis
Awarded for Renewal from Fragility: A Kenyan Vision, painted at age seven, followed by a State House ceremony and environmental tour hosted by Mama Rachel Ruto.
Fish Art Contest — International Migratory Fish Award
© Jesse Ellis
Kenya’s winner in the global Fish Art Contest, with the artwork featured on The Art of Conservation website.
Let’s create change together.
Chat on WhatsAppWords from people who have witnessed Jesse’s journey.
Jesse Ellis is a powerful example of what FLAMA is about, turning creativity, environmental awareness and passion into action.
As a young FLAMA Champion, Jesse captured the power of environmental storytelling through his winning painting, “Renewal from Fragility: A Kenyan Vision.” But his journey did not end with the award. He has taken the message of his artwork beyond the canvas, creating branded tote bags and T-shirts featuring his work.
Jesse is already using creativity as a tool for environmental advocacy and entrepreneurship, creating products that start conversations about our relationship with nature and the future we want to build.
Through FLAMA, we have had the privilege of seeing Jesse grow not only as a gifted artist, but also as an environmental champion and Ambassador, using his creativity to inspire others and turn his ideas into action.
For me, Jesse embodies the spirit of FLAMA: a young person whose voice, creativity and ideas can inspire others, create opportunity and contribute to a more sustainable world.
Mazingira Yetu, Jukumu Letu ~ Our Environment, Our Responsibility.
Sheila Shefo Mbiru
Head, First Lady’s Mazingira Awards (FLAMA)
Voice of Children, Office of the First Lady
Jesse is a talented child whose artwork is beautiful, eye-catching, warm and deep.
I met Jesse by chance at a children’s event in 2025 when l had gone back to the venue to pick something l had forgotten after a conference on Bioeconomy. My friend Sheila showed me Jesse’s artwork and to my amazement, I discovered that it was created by a child! Jesse a calm friendly boy…that’s how l met him and his talent.
A truly gifted boy able to translate complex issues - global, environmental, into colorful images on canvas creatively artistically. May God grow you and your talent to beyond your imagination and take you places.
Already a FLAMA champion, and this is just but the beginning!
God’s got you!
Be blessed
Dr. Doris Mutta
The African Forest Forum
Meeting Jesse Ellis at the FLAMA Winners’ Celebration was such a highlight. Seeing the young artist behind Renewal from Fragility: A Kenyan Vision, created under the theme “Our Environment, Our Responsibility,” made a powerful statement about how young voices can inspire conversations around collective responsibility.
As an Environmental Practitioner and an art judge, I reviewed artwork from learners across Kenya. Jesse’s fine art stood out as one of the best among the many artworks I reviewed.
His art piece pointed toward a greener future powered by green energy and shaped by cleaner streets, showing that a healthy environment is built by everyone working together.
Artistically, the piece impressed me on several levels. First, his use of color was purposeful and vibrant, guiding the eye and reinforcing the message. The concept was original, and the creativity in how he combined several themes into one composition was refreshing. The quality of execution showed strong technical skill, with careful attention to detail and balance.
Most importantly, the message was clear at first glance, yet the piece carried real emotional depth, moving the viewer to reflect and act.
Jesse is exactly the kind of young champion Kenya needs: a learner who uses his talent to inspire change in his school and community.
Best Wishes,
Simeon Oleku.
Independent Art Judge and Environment Practitioner
Simeon Oleku
Independent Art Judge and Environment Practitioner
Jesse is amazingly talented! I’m super proud of him. He’s not only gifted, but also so confident and articulate. It’s such a joy to watch him express himself and share his art. Looking forward to seeing even more of his creative journey!
Wanjiku Nderitu
A celebrated Fine Artist and Founder of ArtSASA
I have watched Jesse grow as a curious and creative young artist. He is eager to learn, explore new ideas, experiment with different techniques, and challenge himself creatively. What stands out is his willingness to share what he learns, whether with his peers or even adults. Jesse’s confidence, generosity, and openness to learning make his artistic journey exciting to witness and his potential truly promising.
Rehema Njoroge
Creative Arts Educator, SmARTie Me #Hub4Creatives
Jesse is a talented artist and an inspiration. When I saw his work at the FLAMA awards, I was amazed by its texture and composition. He is also a confident and inspiring public speaker. Beyond art, Jesse has a sharp business mindset. He turned his winning artwork into custom t-shirts and tote bags. Now, he uses these items to educate young leaders and adults about the environment, and fund his education.
Jesse truly is remarkable.
David Jackson
FLAMA Ambassador and Logo Winner