By: oohanieltgooding@awokonewspaper.sl
Celebrating academic brilliance, eleven of Sierra Leone’s brightest young minds were recognized for their achievements, marking a new chapter in their inspiring journeys.
These individuals, representing various fields of study, not only excelled in academics but also overcame personal and societal challenges to emerge as the best among their peers.
For Alhassan Barrie, who excelled medicine at the College of Medical Studies and Allied Sciences (CHOMAS), success was a result of meticulous planning and perseverance. Despite the demanding nature of his studies, Alhassan credits his achievements to his supportive family and consistent time management. He reflected, “I learned early on to prioritize my goals and balance academics with extracurricular activities.” His advice to younger students is straightforward: “Stay focused, manage your time, and don’t let distractions derail your purpose.”
Similarly, Finnah Roselyn Tarawallie defied societal expectations with a stellar GPA of 4.89. Coming from a challenging background, she saw education as a tool to rewrite her story. “I was determined to prove that excellence is possible no matter where you start,” she said. Finnah emphasized that her success was the result of daily discipline, a strong mindset, and belief in the power of hard work. She now hopes to inspire other young women to pursue their ambitions with confidence and focus.
Meanwhile, Vandi Foday Alpha’s academic journey was driven by the influence of his friends, whose healthy competition kept him motivated. With a GPA of 3.79, he reflected on the role his peers played in pushing him to perform better. “The competition among us was fierce but encouraging,” he shared. Vandi’s dedication to regular preparation and creating personal notes helped him rise above challenges, showcasing the value of teamwork and consistent effort.
For Hassanatu Yeanie Kanu, the road to success was deeply personal. Her passion for medicine was sparked in grade six after losing a friend to a preventable heart condition. Despite the sleepless nights and sacrifices, she remained steadfast in her mission. “Hard work, prayer, and the fear of failing were my driving forces,” she said. Now, she is determined to make a difference in Sierra Leone’s healthcare system, believing that success is about resilience and overcoming life’s hurdles.
The theme of breaking barriers resonates strongly with Siafiatu Hafasatu Kamara, who emerged as the top female graduate from the Institute of Public Administration and Management with a GPA of 3.8 in banking and finance. Being the first in her family to attend university, she felt a deep responsibility to set a positive example. “I couldn’t afford to fail—not for myself, not for my family,” she said. Her story emphasizes the power of determination, faith, and effective time management in achieving success.
Jusu Gandi, on the other hand, demonstrated that success is not only personal but also communal. A graduate in public sector management with a GPA of 7.5, Jusu became known for his selfless dedication to mentoring fellow students. He explained, “Helping others kept me grounded and focused on my goals.” His story highlights the importance of discipline and the role of uplifting others along the way.
These remarkable achievements were celebrated under the auspices of the Adonis Abboud Trust Fund (AATF), which has become a cornerstone of academic recognition in Sierra Leone. Daphne Bangura, the Project Coordinator of AATF, shared the organization’s vision and history. “The AATF was established to celebrate and reward excellence while encouraging young people to strive for greatness,” she explained. This year’s awards, which included trophies and cash prizes, serve as a powerful motivation for all students across the country.
By recognizing Sierra Leone’s best and brightest, the AATF continues to inspire a generation of leaders who are poised to transform their communities and the nation at large.