Strengthening Minds, Strengthening Communities: Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation Hosts Training and Mental Health Seminar

The Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation (JNJF) continues to demonstrate its dedication to both community empowerment and staff well-being. The past week was a remarkable one, as the foundation organized a series of impactful sessions that combined professional development with personal growth.

Over two days, JNJF staff participated in an intensive Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) training session, facilitated by Mr. Ansumana Lahai, a seasoned VSLA expert. This training was designed to strengthen staff capacity in effectively guiding and supporting the foundation’s VSLA groups. Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, staff deepened their understanding of VSLA processes, record-keeping, and group management. The training also created space for reflection on challenges faced in the field and strategies to further strengthen the foundation’s support to widows who rely on VSLA to achieve financial independence.

In addition to the technical training, JNJF staff also benefited from a mental health seminar hosted by mental health expert, Konima Bachalle-Taylor. This seminar was refreshing and timely, reminding staff of the importance of mental wellness in sustaining the demanding but rewarding work they do. The session covered stress management, emotional resilience, and the value of self-care. Staff described it as an eye-opening and uplifting experience that not only equipped them with tools to manage their own well-being but also inspired them to bring a healthier mindset into their daily work.

The seminar was warmly received across the team, with many staff expressing gratitude and looking forward to more sessions like this being organized in the future. Fanta Marah Nabie, the foundation’s Administrative Officer, captured the collective sentiment when she said: “It wasn’t just about training. It showed us that the foundation cares for us as people, not just as staff.”

What made the week truly outstanding was the balance between professional growth and personal care. On one hand, the VSLA training strengthened technical skills to better serve widows and VSLA groups. On the other hand, the mental health seminar ensured that staff themselves remain strong, motivated, and cared for. Together, the sessions reflected JNJF’s holistic approach to empowerment valuing both the communities it serves and the team that drives its mission.

By organizing these sessions, the Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation has once again proven its commitment to excellence, compassion, and sustainability. These activities reaffirm JNJF’s mission to empower widows and strengthen communities in Sierra Leone. By equipping its staff with knowledge and prioritizing their well-being, the foundation is building not just financial freedom for widows, but also a stronger, healthier, and more resilient team to carry this vision forward.