Small underprivileged areas a.k.a “Cités”, are found all over the island of Mauritius. Overcrowded with narrow streets and dull houses, they often suffer from a bad reputation due to illicit drug and alcohol abuse. Sofap, the leading local paint manufacturer, believes they can contribute to the embellishment of these Cités, thus improving their quality of life. A question was then raised. How can colour be used to change the general perception of the public towards the forgotten areas? Colour for Change was launched. A programme that brings colour and connects people.  To inspire, motivate, assist, educate and empower.

2017. Cité Mangalkhan

Our first project was at Cité Mangalkhan. We built a single platform to regroup the social workers and NGOs of the region to help reshape our strategy. Streets were cleaned and used syringes were collected. Celebrities and artists were involved. Creative workshops were organised.

We then set the colour free. Resident joined forces. Outsiders came to see. For two months, we painted our way through the Cité. Day after day. Wall after wall. A real communication campaign based on true & genuine moments with our fellow citizens. Daily stories of Cité Mangalkhan and its inhabitants were shared online, published in the press, played in cinemas, as well as outdoor posters placed all over the island. The song «Kouler nou leker was recorded to translate all the emotions felt & shared throughout Colour for Change. Hundreds of thousands of people were reached with our stories of Mangalkhan.

We painted more than 1500m of walls, 1 historical building and 3 associations using 2000 L of paint and over 500 brushes.

Colour for Change has put shared values on the forefront. We created a connection between the brand and the people. We got closer to the hearts of Mauritians. We inspired and got inspired. We painted more than walls. We painted happiness. We proved that extraordinary things can happen, when we walk together.

2018. Roche-Bois

Using colour as a means of sharing, emotion and solidarity to protect, enhance and beautify the neighbourhoods of Mauritius. “Colour for Change” initiated by Sofap, has set its focus at Cité Roche-Bois in 2018. Enn baz kot zanfan site ena kapasite ek volonte. Enn kartie kot dimounn pe regroupe pou fer fas ladversite.