Originally founded in 1989 to support South Africa's quest for freedom and democracy, ANSA now works to eliminate the social and economic inequities that are legacies of apartheid in South Africa and segregation in the U.S. by empowerng historically disenfranchised communities. ANSA strives to ameliorate the societal impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic; improve U.S. and South African government and corporate HIV/AIDS policies; decrease AIDS stigma, racism and other prejudices; protect human, civil and voting rights; increase electoral participation and safeguard democracy in both countries. ANSA programs build collaborations between funders and the communities served, empower local solutions and grassroots leadership, address deeper societal inequities and root causes of problems, and strive to ensure lasting, sustainable change. For the past 18 years, ANSA has incorporated the core principles of equality and empowerment into all aspects of our work as organizers, grantmakers, advocates, and aid providers. We aim not to engage in duplicative efforts, and instead build coalitions with other NGOs, CBOs and broader movements. In partnership with South African and American front line organizations, grassroots movements, leaders, and activists, ANSA makes a difference through developing innovative, collaborative programs, public education and mobilization, grantmaking, advocacy, media campaigns, and material aid. ANSA harnesses the unique talents, visibility and resources of noted artists to increase awareness, raise money and mobilize action. ANSA focuses on addressing the root causes of social problems while working to alleviate suffering and address urgent unmet unneeds. ANSA's U.S. Programs focus on combating HIV/AIDS, protecting voting rights and empowering vulnerable youth. ANSA addresses the rising spread of HIV/AIDS amongst people of color and teens in the Los Angeles area and throughout the U.S.

“Artists for a New South Africa (ANSA) is a nonprofit organization working in the U.S. and South Africa to combat HIV/AIDS, assist children orphaned by the disease, advance human and civil rights, educate and empower youth, and build bonds between our nations through arts, culture, and our shared pursuit of social justice.”