About The Hidden Genius
Meet the visionary behind the movement and the people making art education accessible in rural Kenya
Contact Information
William "Willy" Kasuli
William Kasuli is an esteemed art educator with over 18 years of experience in arts education leadership. His mission is to ignite creative consciousness among young learners across the globe.
In early 2025, Kasuli traveled from Athens, Greece to Kenya, carrying a vision to inspire students to embrace art as more than an academic pursuit—but as a powerful tool for self-expression and societal transformation.
His teaching philosophy is simple yet profound: art is not just about aesthetics; it is about identity, resilience, and emotional liberation. He introduces students to various artistic disciplines, including painting, drawing, banner-making, and mask-making, emphasizing patience, discipline, and creativity.
Education
B.A. in Art & Psychology
C.U.N.Y. Lehman College, 1993
Summa Cum LaudeM.Ed. in Cultural Diversity and School Reform
University of Massachusetts at Amherst, 1994
Focus: Indigenous Peoples Education
MS Ed. in School Administration (SDA, SAS)
Toro College, 2003
"Art education is not an option; it is a necessity. If we want a generation that thinks critically, expresses boldly, and innovates fearlessly, we must provide them with the right environment."
— Willy Kasuli
18+ Years in Arts Education Leadership
From classroom educator to Director for the Arts, Willy's career spans decades of transforming arts education in New York City
Director for the Arts
NYC Board of Education, Brooklyn
2007 - 2010
Led arts education initiatives across Brooklyn's Community Learning Support Organization
Regional Arts Supervisor
Region 4, Learning Support Center, Queens
2003 - 2007
Supervised arts programs across multiple schools in Queens region
Arts Coordinator
Community School District 30, Queens
1997 - 2003
Coordinated arts education programs for 6 years in Queens district
Program Coordinator
Studio in a School Association Inc.
2010 - 2012
Consultant and program coordinator for renowned arts education nonprofit
Art Educator
Big Cypress Seminole Reservation, Florida
1994
Taught art at Ahfachkee Elementary School on the Seminole Reservation
Arts Panel Member
Multiple Organizations
2010
NY State Council on the Arts, NY Foundation for the Arts, Center for Arts Education
Art Specializations
Willy brings expertise in diverse artistic disciplines, all of which are now being taught to students in Kenya
Key People & Partners
Stephen Misori
Director, Bloombells Charity
A visionary teacher with a big heart for his community, helping students discover their hidden potential.
"Art nurtures critical thinking, patience, and resilience. It allows learners to develop confidence and express ideas boldly."
Caroline Olwal
Principal, St. Peters Disii
School leader who championed the integration of art education into her school's curriculum.
Emmanuel Odoyo
Teacher, Obuya Comprehensive
Dedicated educator supporting students in realizing that creativity is essential to actualizing their dreams.
"Our students are realizing that creativity is not a luxury—it is essential to actualizing their dreams."
Mr. Ochiel
Teacher, St. Peters Disii
Believes art fosters understanding, heals wounds, and unites people despite their differences.
Student Stories
Alex Otieno: Discovering Hidden Talent
Until early 2025, Alex Otieno, a Grade 9 student at Obuya Comprehensive School in Homa Bay County, Kenya, had no idea he possessed a remarkable artistic talent.
He saw himself as an average student, focused on preparing for his national Grade 9 assessment. Yet, hidden within him was an untapped reservoir of artistic ability—a gift that, if nurtured, could transform not only his life but also that of his community.
His awakening came through an encounter with Willy Kasuli. For Alex, the transformation was profound. Initially hesitant, he gradually gained confidence with each brushstroke and pencil sketch.
His defining moment came when Kasuli challenged the students to create self-portraits. Initially doubtful, he meticulously worked on his piece and, by the end of the session, stood proudly beside his artwork, radiating newfound self-belief. That day, art became more than an activity—it became his voice.
Fidel Odhiambo: Art Gaining Recognition
Fidel Odhiambo, a Grade 9 student at Obuya Comprehensive School, is doing his best in art as the subject continues to gain recognition within the school.
Through the transformative power of art, Fidel and his peers are not only reclaiming their self-esteem but also paving the way for a future where creativity drives change, joy, and communal harmony.
In the News
"The Hidden Genius: How Art is Awakening Talent and Transforming Lives in Homa Bay Schools"
An in-depth feature on how Willy Kasuli's art education initiative is transforming the lives of students in rural Kenya, uncovering hidden talents and building confidence through creative expression.
Read Full Article
"Keep looking, keep seeing, and most importantly, keep creating. The world is your canvas—use it to shape your future and uplift those around you."
— Willy Kasuli