Who we are

Mark Scheflen is an internationally recognized visual artist, photographer, educator, and humanitarian entrepreneur. He is the founder of Kiboko Projects, a 501c3 nonprofit that uses art, photography, video, and storytelling to foster cross-cultural exchanges and educational programs in the United States, Africa, and beyond. His work bridges borders and disciplines, inspiring people to use creativity as a tool for connection, learning, and social change.

Raised on a farm, Scheflen developed a deep connection to the natural world while cultivating early interests in carpentry, photography, and anthropology. He studied Anthropology at the State University of New York, grounding his artistic practice in cultural awareness and respect for global traditions.

For over 25 years, Scheflen has lived and traveled extensively in Africa, experiences that have profoundly shaped his work in environmental conservation, biodiversity, and public health. Through Kiboko Projects, he has designed programs that integrate the arts into school curricula, support health and environmental education, and empower young people to tell their own stories through writing, photography, and video. He has also served as an environmental conservation advisor, contributing expertise to initiatives that protect ecosystems and promote sustainable practices. His programs have reached New York City public schools, secondary schools in Uganda and Kenya, and university mentorship programs, fostering dialogue and understanding across cultures.

An accomplished birder and wildlife photographer, Scheflen captures the beauty and fragility of the natural world in images exhibited nationally and internationally. His art, activism, and conservation work reflect a lifelong commitment to creativity, education, and environmental stewardship—efforts that continue to inspire communities worldwide.  More on his art and photography work can be found  https://markscheflen.com/