Sierra Leone: Progress, Partnerships and Community Impact

Chair of Trustees Paul Jeanes, his wife Ali and Teams4U representative Lois Gerber have recently returned from our annual visit to Sierra Leone, where they spent time with project staff, beneficiaries, community leaders and other stakeholders to gain a clear picture of ongoing progress.

As always, the passion, dedication and resourcefulness of our team in Sierra Leone stood out. With modest financial input from Teams4U, they continue to build a capable and committed workforce focused on delivering long-term change in many lives.

Expanding Educational Opportunities

A key development since last year is the relocation of one of the colleges from Kailahun to Kenema. The move has placed students in an area with more job and business opportunities. The Kenema community has been highly supportive, offering an excellent college building and providing night-time security for the facility.

The team has also launched a new college in Segbwema, enabling students to access short courses focused on practical skills.

As the Youth Chairman explained, “vocational training is the best option for young people because it prepares them for work – it’s much more likely they’ll gain a livelihood from vocational training than formal education.”

Students across the colleges are gaining experience in sales, customer relations, bookkeeping, saving and investing. Some were even able to share valuable business advice with the visiting team.

Transformational Impact on Young Women

Speaking with students highlighted the vital role that vocational training plays in protecting young women from heightened risks. Without a livelihood, young women are more vulnerable to trafficking, transactional relationships and unsafe forms of work. Limited income also affects their ability to afford healthcare and other essentials.

The team heard both difficult stories of students’ experiences before joining the colleges and uplifting stories of change. One example is Bintu, the catering teacher, whose confidence has grown significantly. “When we met her last year, Bintu was very shy and reserved, but now she is a confident and smiling teacher.”

Graduation Celebrations and New Beginnings

This year’s student graduation was a special moment. Every graduate had worked hard and overcome challenges on their journey. Families, friends and local employers attended to celebrate their achievements.

Thanks to sponsors in the UK, including DTCC, and supporters in Sierra Leone, several graduates received business startup kits containing essential tools such as sewing machines for tailoring.

Students tearfully accepted the kits as Helga Kawa shared their achievements. The team also visited businesses set up by past graduates.

One former student now employs two apprentices, demonstrating the growing ripple effect of the training programme.

Develop with Dignity Programme

The team visited the Develop with Dignity programme to see the progress being made. Project Co-ordinator Theresa Brima has established peer groups that allow older students to discuss key topics in depth. These include menstruation, making good choices, domestic violence and gender-based violence. The space gives young people the confidence to ask questions, reflect and challenge norms.

Baaka Village Enterprise and Clean Water

The visit concluded in Baaka village, where the palm oil business is based and where Teams4U installed a well last year. Community members expressed their gratitude for the clean water supply and shared how jobs created through the business help cover vital expenses such as school fees. The team were reminded of the profound impact that job creation can have in rural areas with limited employment opportunities.

Teams4U extends sincere thanks to our colleagues in Sierra Leone for their warm hospitality and, more importantly, for their hard work and achievements throughout the year. We look forward to building on this progress and anticipate an even more impactful 2026.