By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, Sierra Leone — September 5, 2025: The Veteran Artists Association-Sierra Leone (VAA-SL) convened its inaugural Secretariat Familiarization Meeting on Friday at the Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts, marking a pivotal moment for the country’s creative sector. Held at the academy’s Liverpool Street campus, the gathering brought together key members of the Secretariat and Board to outline a transformative roadmap for Sierra Leone’s artistic future.
Led by Executive Director Sajoh Jalloh, the meeting reaffirmed VAA-SL’s mission to celebrate, preserve, and promote the nation’s rich cultural heritage. As a legally registered entity, the association supports both established and emerging creatives across disciplines including music, visual arts, literature, film, performance, and traditional crafts.
“The association is a vital platform to elevate Sierra Leonean talent,” Jalloh stated in his opening remarks. “Our cultural legacy must not only be preserved—it must be globally recognized.”
Among the Secretariat members present were Melvin Davies (Admin Officer), Alie Bangura (Assistant Organizing Officer), Ibrahim Sheku Bangura (Public Relations Officer), Mariatu Sheriff (Office Assistant), Nendawah Kargbo (Finance Officer), Charlie Haffner (Lead Organizing Officer), and Admire Williams (Assistant Finance Officer). The Board of Directors includes prominent figures such as Professor Osman A. Sankoh (COR), Dr. Julius Spencer, and Umar Farouk Sesay, alongside other creatives from both Sierra Leone and the diaspora.
A key highlight of the meeting was the Artist Database, launched in April 2025. This digital platform aims to connect, document, and promote Sierra Leonean artists, offering a centralized space to showcase their work. Professor Sankoh, affectionately known as Mallam O., chairs the Board and emphasized the database’s potential to foster mentorship, preserve cultural memory, and enhance visibility for artists locally and internationally.
“The Artist Database is a game-changer,” Jalloh said. “It bridges generational gaps and creates opportunities for collaboration and growth.”
The Secretariat also unveiled its revised 2025–2026 work plan, following the postponement of earlier events. A robust lineup of activities is now scheduled from September through December, including the highly anticipated Cuban Festival, set for October 10–20. The festival will celebrate the cultural ties between Cuba and Sierra Leone and is expected to draw wide public interest.
During the meeting, Assistant Organizing Officer Alie Bangura proposed expanding VAA-SL’s outreach by establishing arts clubs in schools. “Introducing these initiatives in educational institutions will preserve our heritage and inspire the younger generation,” Bangura said. The proposal was warmly received, aligning with VAA-SL’s goal of nurturing cultural awareness among youth.
The meeting underscored VAA-SL’s commitment to building a collaborative and inclusive creative ecosystem. With the Artist Database, upcoming festivals, and educational outreach initiatives, the association is positioning Sierra Leone’s artists for greater national and international recognition.
As VAA-SL moves forward, its leadership remains focused on overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities to elevate the country’s creative sector. With a clear vision and a dedicated team, the association is poised to make a lasting impact—ensuring that Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage is not only preserved but celebrated with pride and innovation.