By Ibrahim S. Bangura
After weeks of dazzling performances, raw passion, and fierce competition, the stage is now set for the Grand Finale of the Cribs International Talent Search 2025—and the final five contestants have just been revealed!
Held at the iconic Bintumani Conference Centre, the semi-finals captivated audiences and judges alike as ten rising stars gave it their all for a spot in the final round. Now, five exceptional acts have emerged, each standing just one performance away from national glory.
These five standout performers will now go head-to-head in a grand showdown that promises high energy, deep emotion, and unforgettable moments: Melrose Fatima Swarray (#62) – A powerhouse vocalist with unmatched stage presence; Anita Macmillan Sesay (#139) – Radiates soul, confidence, and charisma; Francis Reffel (#135) – A lyrical storyteller with a rich, compelling tone; Frankstella Freeman, (#150) – Captivates with fierce energy and strong melodic control and Chocolate and Makissa (#224) – A unique duo bringing harmony and fresh musical chemistry.
These artists were handpicked by an elite judging panel featuring legendary Nigerian producer MasterKraft and Afrobeats singer Ozeal, both of whom were blown away by the level of talent on display. “This level of talent is rare. Sierra Leone has something special,” said MasterKraft. “I’ve seen future stars on this stage.”
The ultimate winner will receive a Le300,000 cash prize, a recording contract with Cribs International, and access to mentorship and full studio support.
Second and third-place contestants will walk away with complete album production deals, a major step forward for any aspiring musician looking to break into the industry.
Beyond the prizes, the finalists will gain national visibility, invaluable industry experience, and the chance to build lasting fanbases across Sierra Leone and beyond.
Behind this bold initiative is Cribs International, a full-service multimedia and events production company with a passion for youth development and artistic excellence. From state-of-the-art studios to live events and printing services, Cribs is positioning itself as a key player in Sierra Leone’s creative economy.
The Cribs International Talent Search, launched in early 2025, is their flagship platform for discovering, training, and showcasing young music talent from every corner of the country. “We’re not just scouting talent—we’re building careers,” said a Cribs representative. “This is a cultural movement to empower the next generation of stars.”