Started in 2014 by Emerson Skeens, the Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation empowers Zanzibaris to shape a vibrant, self‑sustaining future rooted in the islands’ rich artistic and cultural heritage. We invest directly in people, supporting exceptional talent in the visual arts, music, film, and academic fields, and strengthen the local organisations that safeguard and elevate Zanzibar’s cultural identity.
The Foundation is proudly non‑governmental, non‑political, non‑commercial, non‑religious, and entirely non‑profit, driven solely by the belief that creativity and knowledge can transform lives and communities.
Emerson Dewey Skeens first came to Zanzibar in the late 1980’s at a time when there was no tourist infrastructure on the island. Emerson stayed as a resident until his death 25 years later.
Emerson brought to Zanzibar a vast knowledge of the arts, music and international culture which he used, in partnership with others, to establish:
➡️The Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF); website: www.ziff.or.tz
➡️ The Dhow Countries Music Academy, a thriving NGO (see wikipedia article ); website: www.zanzibarmusic.org
➡️ Sauti za Busara, an internationally renowned musical festival; website: www.busaramusic.org
➡️ Stone Town Conservation Society
The foundation was created in 2024 after culture pioneer Emerson Skeens died at 65 in Zanzibar. Through it, the legacy of the charismatic New Yorker lives on. Known as Babu, he opened Stone Town’s first boutique hotels in 1990, hosted Johnny Depp, and sparked major cultural events like ZIFF and Sauti za Busara.
Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation continues his cultural mission, awarding annual prizes in music, film, and visual art.
This support has transformed lives. Filmmaker Muddy Sule, for instance, won the 2024 film award for Uhuruwangu, his short about Aids — a breakthrough that led to a TV role and launched his career after the foundation first recognised his talent.
Chair Person
Chair Person
Co-Founder
Co-Founder
Culture & Films
Culture & Films
Promotions
Promotions
Music & Funding
Music & Funding
Legal
Legal
Finance
Finance
Consultant
Consultant
Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Coordinator
Absolutely! you can support Zanzibar’s artists no matter where you live. You don’t need to be in Zanzibar. To explore all the ways you can get involved, including membership options, donations, volunteering and event support, visit our Members page . It’s the easiest way to join the movement and help make Zanzibar’s artistic talent known worldwide.
To explore all the ways you can get involved while you’re here - including membership options, donations, volunteering, and event support; visit our Members page. Also check if there are any events going on during your stay on our Calendar page.
Yes! Musicians can absolutely sponsor or support fellow artists in Zanzibar. Whether you live here or abroad, your skills, experience, and resources can make a meaningful difference to emerging musicians, filmmakers, and visual artists. To explore all the ways you can get involved; including membership options, donations, volunteering, and event support — visit our Members page. It’s the easiest way to support fellow artists and empower Zanzibar’s creative future.
Gallery owners can play a major role in promoting African art. By exhibiting work from Zanzibar’s painters, photographers, and visual artists, you help expand visibility and introduce authentic local creativity to new audiences. You can also support artists through collaborations, commissions, or by sharing their work with collectors and networks. To deepen your impact, explore membership, donations, volunteering, or event involvement on our Members page. It’s the easiest way to champion Zanzibar’s creative community and encourage African art worldwide.
