Press Release: Celebrating Women's History Month with a new painting in support of girls' education

(March 2025) — Stall Three Studio’s founder, Sterling Crawford, has created a new painting in honor and support of Malaika, a nonprofit empowering girls in the Democratic Republic of Congo through education and health initiatives. The original painting, titled “Wings to Lead,” and a limited edition of 25 prints, will be released for sale on March 30th, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Malaika.

It is not by chance that Stall Three Studio’s newest project is being released on March 30th, coinciding with Women’s History Month. Noella Coursaris Musunka founded the Malaika school in 2007 at a time when education was not free in the Democratic Republic of Congo. If families could only afford to send one or a few children to school, boys were prioritized. While the boys received education, the girls were left to work, marry, and have children, or do household chores such as gathering water—remaining uneducated and therefore prone to disadvantaged situations.

Since the start of the Malaika school fifteen years ago, over 400 girls have been empowered through education and health programs. The first round of students is graduating this May, with many going on to attend technical school and university, while others are being placed in internships with local companies. Education provides opportunity and independence, and Malaika is paving the way for the next generation of female leaders in the DRC.

“Wings to Lead” and its accompanying prints will be available for purchase on Stall Three Studio’s website starting March 30th. 30% of proceeds from the sale of the original oil painting and 50% of print sales will be donated to Malaika.

For inquiries about the original painting or prints, please email: contact@stallthreestudio.com