11/08/2026
I have always been on the fence when it comes to youth issues. Sometimes, I ask myself: Are young people not serious enough, or are we, as a country, not providing them with the right platforms, resources, and opportunities to succeed?
Having contributed to youth development in Sierra Leone, I am not speaking just for the sake of speaking. I am speaking from experience, involvement, and what I have personally witnessed.
Today, however, I want to take a different side. I want to stand with our young people.
I believe many of them are doing their best. What is often missing is the right support system the resources, opportunities, mentorship, and platforms that can help them excel and become the best versions of themselves.
Today, I want to spotlight a very young, hardworking, respectful and talented mason and contractor.
And let me say this:
Your skills can get you into the room, but your character will keep you in the room.
I met this young man through my landlord. He had come to fix my bathroom. At the time, I didn’t even want to take his contact or work with him again because of some bad experiences I had previously had with skilled workers.
But my mum insisted that I collect his number because she was visiting me in Bo at the time. 😂
I listened to her and today, I am very happy I did!
This young man gradually became my key point of contact for masonry and carpentry work around my house.
Then, little by little, I started giving him more responsibilities at Agro Fish Farm SL Ltd
He has worked on major construction and maintenance tasks, including our borehole work, hatchery repairs, and plumbing.
What has impressed me most is not just his technical skills.
It is his diligence, efficiency, effectiveness, respect for time, and ability to work without constant supervision.
Those qualities are becoming increasingly difficult to find.
This experience has reminded me of something important: sometimes, young people don’t need someone to do the work for them. They simply need someone to give them an opportunity to prove what they can do.
When we give young people opportunities, trust them with responsibilities, and recognize good character and hard work, we don’t just help one individual we contribute to building a stronger workforce and a better Sierra Leone.
To this young man, keep learning. Keep improving. Keep your humility. Keep your integrity.
Your skills may open many doors for you, but let your character, discipline and consistency keep those doors open.
Today, I am proud to say: I believe in young people. And I believe this young man is one to watch. 👏🏾🇸🇱
