Spark Media has celebrated the graduation of 98 young Sierra Leoneans who successfully completed its intensive Media Masterclass programme during a colourful ceremony held on Saturday, 20 June 2026, at the Miatta Conference Centre in Freetown.
The one-month training programme, which began with an enrolment of 150 participants from across the country, focused on equipping young people with practical skills in videography, photography, graphic design and web design. After weeks of intensive classroom instruction and hands-on practical sessions, 98 participants met the programme requirements and received certificates of completion.
The initiative, offered free of charge, was designed to empower young people with digital storytelling and content creation skills while preparing them for opportunities in Sierra Leone’s growing media and creative industries. The training was facilitated by Benjamin Thoronka, who led the photography sessions and Emmanuel AJ Cole, who conducted the videography training.
The graduation ceremony attracted Government officials, representatives of private institutions, development partners, facilitators, family members and supporters who gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduates.
Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, H.E. Kenyeh Barlay, congratulated the graduates on successfully completing the programme and encouraged them to use their newly acquired knowledge to contribute positively to national development.
“I would like to thank Spark Media and its partners for empowering these young people,” the Minister said, while urging the graduates to remain committed to excellence and professionalism in their respective fields.
Programme Coordinator, Solomon J. Kekura, described the training journey as both demanding and rewarding, noting that the participants demonstrated remarkable commitment throughout the programme.
“The journey has been challenging but rewarding. The graduates showed strong commitment, resilience and growth throughout the programme,” he said.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of professional equipment to outstanding participants in recognition of their exceptional performance during the training. The Best Videographer and Best Photographer each received a complete camera kit, while the Best Graphic Designer was awarded a brand-new laptop to support their professional development.
According to Spark Media, the awards were intended to help the beneficiaries launch their careers, establish creative businesses and create employment opportunities within their communities.
Speaking during the ceremony, Spark Media Managing Director, Issadin Kamara, expressed appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of the initiative.
“We are humbled and honoured to certify 98 graduates from the Spark Media Masterclass. At Spark Media, our goal has always been to empower young people to tell compelling stories. We want to thank Joe L. Aruna for his support. We also appreciate Sallu Kamuskay of Salone Messenger for always standing with us,” Issadin Kamara said.
Spark Media also acknowledged the contributions of its facilitators, partners and supporters whose collaboration made the programme successful. The organisation disclosed that the masterclass was fully funded by Spark Media with support from Hotacon.
Organisers said the graduation represents the beginning of new professional journeys for the graduates, many of whom are expected to apply their skills in media production, digital communications and entrepreneurship while contributing to the continued growth of Sierra Leone’s creative industry.
Congratulating the Class of 2026, Spark Media encouraged the graduates to use their knowledge and talents to tell impactful stories, inspire positive change and seize opportunities within the rapidly evolving digital media landscape.
“This is just the beginning,” organizers said, urging the graduates to continue learning, innovate and make meaningful contributions to society through creative storytelling.
