Empowering the Next Generation: Jamil & Nyanga Jaward Foundation Marks World Youth Skills Day 2025 with Innovation & Impact

In honor of World Youth Skills Day 2025, the Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation (JNJF) hosted an impactful one-day seminar focused on empowering children of widows from the various communities the foundation supports. The event was held at the Africell American Corner at Bathurst Street, Freetown, and brought together young minds eager to learn, share, and grow.

This year's theme, “Empowering Youth Through AI & Digital Skills”, resonates deeply with JNJF's mission. More than just supporting widows, the foundation remains committed to nurturing the full potential of their children, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in today’s fast evolving digital world.

From coding to creativity, innovation to mentorship, the seminar served as a platform for transformation.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Columba Blango, a globally respected figure in both sports and public service. Born in Sierra Leone and now based in the UK, Dr. Blango is a former Olympian, a Member of Parliament, and a passionate advocate for youth and disability inclusion. His speech was a stirring reflection on the value of perseverance, the power of education, and the urgency of equipping young people with the right tools to succeed. He left the room captivated with personal stories and a powerful message: “Your story matters. Your skills are your voice. Use them wisely.”

Adding to the day’s value, Mr. Ahmed Kamara, Youth Component Manager at the Ministry of Youth Affairs, emphasized the importance of skill acquisition in building a meaningful life. “Skills are not just tools for jobs,” he said. “They are solutions for national growth. Every young person who learns something new contributes to a better Sierra Leone.” He also encouraged attendees to practice active listening as a foundation for effective learning.

Major Edward Fefegula, in his session, focused on the role of digital and technical skills in tackling youth unemployment. He explained how Sierra Leone’s job market is rapidly changing, and that technical skills from digital literacy to hands-on vocational abilities can help bridge the gap between opportunity and need. “We must create doers, not just dreamers,” he stressed.

Mr. Mohamed A. Kamara, CEO of Freetown Innovation Lab, closed the presentations with an inspiring look into his journey as an innovator and change maker in Sierra Leone. He encouraged the youths to use innovation as a tool for solving real-life problems from turning waste materials into finished products to building tech-driven solutions that serve their communities. His mentorship advice was simple but profound: “Start small. Think big. Act now.”

The event ended with breakout sessions, where the children were divided into groups to brainstorm innovative ideas. From tech-driven sanitation solutions to creative crafts using recycled materials, their ideas showcased talent, creativity, and a hunger to be part of Sierra Leone’s development story.

Special appreciation goes to our sponsors:

• Badainyah Investment Company – Lavi Juice

• Yamsal Development Services Ltd.

And to the Africell American Corner, whose warm hospitality made the event even more impactful.

At the Jamil & Nyanga Jaward Foundation, we believe that empowerment doesn’t stop at support; it continues through education, mentorship, and skills training. Through events like this, we reaffirm that we are not just a foundation, but a family investing in the next generation to rise, lead, and transform their communities.