By Ibrahim S. Bangura
The Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts (BAMPA), in collaboration with the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL), hosted a heartfelt event to honor the remarkable contributions of Kyra Christine King, popularly known as KC, a music missionary who has left an indelible mark on the local arts community. Over the past year, KC, who came to Sierra Leone as an eager intern from the USA at the CCSL, has become a cherished member of the Ballanta family, sharing her expertise in saxophone, vocals, and sound engineering, and inspiring a new generation of musicians and technicians.
The event, held at the academy’s premises on Thursday, September 25, 2025, was attended by representatives from CCSL, Ballanta Academy staff, students, and members of the press. Speakers—including Leslie Cumming-Wray; Dr. Julius Spencer, board chair of BAMPA; and Tenneh Kargbo, a student—praised KC’s dedication, resilience, and passion for music, which have significantly enriched the academy’s programs and the broader Sierra Leonean music scene.
Leslie, a key figure at Ballanta Academy, opened the event by reflecting on KC’s integration into the academy. “She came and became part of this family,” he said, emphasizing her contributions to various branches of the academy’s work, including saxophone and vocal classes and live performances with the Groovy Colors Band.
A CCSL representative, Keziah Kargbo, the General Secretary of CCSL, recounted their initial uncertainty about how to engage a missionary focused on music—a departure from the typical development or advocacy roles they were accustomed to. “We were a bit confused and worried about how we could engage KC effectively,” she admitted. However, they soon recognized that Ballanta Academy, known for its robust music training programs, was the perfect fit. “We thought KC would play an active role at Ballanta Academy, and we are happy for her contribution because it seems to be positive.”
She expressed gratitude to Ballanta Academy for providing KC with a platform to share her talents. “You gave us the opportunity to put the talent on the table so that the candle will light and shine,” she said delightedly, highlighting the academy’s resources, including instruments and performance spaces, which complemented and showcased KC’s skills. She also praised KC’s dedication, noting that, unlike other missionaries who sometimes needed encouragement to fulfill their assignments, KC was proactive and passionate. “She would be the one reminding me about her work schedule,” Kargbo said, adding that her departure in mid-September felt “so quick” as her contract nears its end.
In her remarks, KC expressed gratitude for the support she received from CCSL, Ballanta Academy, and her students. “It’s been a joy and an honor to work here with you,” she said.
Dr. Spencer shared how KC’s arrival was initially met with uncertainty due to staffing challenges. However, her seamless integration and multifaceted contributions exceeded expectations. “She speaks almost perfect Krio now,” he noted, recalling her initial struggles with the language. KC’s work has spanned teaching saxophone and vocals, performing with the Groovy Colors, and advancing sound engineering at the academy.
KC’s impact extends beyond technical training. Tenneh Kargbo, a student, shared a moving tribute, describing KC as patient, understanding, and inspirational. “Before my encounter with KC, my personal practice session was around 30 minutes, and I’d get tired. Now I can practice for over an hour,” Tenneh said proudly. She emphasized KC’s resilience in working with students, even when they were not always cooperative, and expressed gratitude on behalf of her peers. “Your impact is felt, and we thank you so much,” she said.
KC’s presence has also elevated Ballanta Academy’s reputation. Dr. Spencer recounted how the Groovy Colors, featuring KC on saxophone, became a staple at the Freetown Dinner Club’s annual Christmas events after a standout performance two years ago. “Members of the club said, ‘Now it’s Groovy Colors only,’” he shared. However, he acknowledged the challenge of filling the void KC will leave, particularly as a rare female saxophonist in Sierra Leone’s live music scene. “It’s not usual to see a woman in Sierra Leone playing sax in a live band,” he said, noting that her departure will be deeply felt.
Despite her imminent departure, both KC and the academy are committed to maintaining their connection. Dr. Spencer proposed online courses to continue her mentorship remotely, reflecting the global village mindset emphasized by the CCSL representative. “Very few people come to Sierra Leone and don’t wish to come back,” he said, expressing confidence that KC will return, perhaps as a visitor rather than an intern.
As KC prepares to leave, the Ballanta Academy and CCSL celebrated not only her contributions but also the power of collaboration. “We are very grateful for this partnership, and we hope it will continue,” they said.