Breaking gender and disability stereotypes in Mozambique with Light for the World

RED NOSES International recently teamed up with Light for the World on a four-week project in Sofala Province, Mozambique, bringing together humour, artistic expression and creative play to promote gender equity and disability inclusion.

Under the InPower programme, our team, led by Craig Russell, had the privilege of working with hundreds of children and adults across Dondo, Beira, Muxungwe, and Nhamatanda, engaging them in workshops, parades, and interactive performances in schools, hospitals, and community spaces.

The artistic team was composed of four clown artists—Veronika, Luciana, Jan and Jakub. Luciana, a native Portuguese speaker, helped bridge language barriers and connect deeply with audiences, ensuring our activities were as inclusive as possible.

Circus Smile, Parades, and Humour Relief Workshops

Through different formats, like Circus Smile workshops, parades, clown shows, and Humour Relief workshops, we encouraged participants to explore sensitive topics in ways that are safe, inclusive and fun. These activities foster emotional resilience while challenging stereotypes around gender and disability.

All activities were co-created with Mozambican partners, including ADEMO, AMAVIDA, KUPEDZANA NHAMATANDA, OREBACOM, SDSMAS DONDO, ESMABAMA, ADPP, and CERPIJ, ensuring the work was culturally relevant, locally owned, and sustainable.

We worked with a wide range of audiences—from kindergarten children to teenagers, from hospital patients to aid workers in the field. Children with disabilities and their carers were at the heart of this project, and our sessions provided safe spaces for expression and connection.

The Bao Bao band

The performance centred on a circus band called Bao Bao, telling the story of a group attempting to play a beautiful song together. Each time the band tried to perform, something would go hilariously wrong, only to ultimately celebrate success and harmony, reflecting the realities of life, vulnerability, and the joy of overcoming obstacles together.

The power of harmonising together

Everywhere we went, we were greeted with songs, dances, and warmth. One standout moment came during a Humour Relief workshop with activists working with people with disabilities. During an activity, participants copied a gesture, passing it around the circle. Gradually, the movement transformed into a rhythmic, trance-like dance, emerging organically from the group— a powerful demonstration of the importance and need that groups of people have to harmonise and feel connected—and there is no better way to do that than by dancing together!

Through humour, music, and play, RED NOSES International fosters inclusive communities where everyone, regardless of gender or ability, can feel seen, valued, and free to express themselves.

We are grateful for the partnership with Light for the World, whose dedication to promoting disability inclusion and gender equity in Mozambique made this project possible and continues to support communities in creating safe, inclusive spaces for everyone.