By Foday Moriba Conteh
On July 14th, 2024, Deen Lansana Dabor, Chief Executive Officer, Dabor’s Investment Company (SL) Limited will celebrate three years of his successful transition from a celebrated Disc Jockey to a pioneering carpenter. His unique journey from spinning records to creating exquisite woodwork has not only showcased his versatility but also provided job opportunities for young Sierra Leoneans, significantly contributing to the local economy.
Deen Lansana Dabor’s story began with a love for music. As a teenager, he was a fervent fan of good tunes, often inspired by international DJs he watched on DSTV. Driven by a desire to emulate his idols, he embarked on a quest to become a professional DJ. His journey took a significant turn when he discovered one of the best DJ academies in the world. With the support of his elder brother, who paid his fees, Dabor enrolled and travelled to South Africa to study live sound mixing.
After four years of rigorous training, he returned to Sierra Leone, where he began working at various radio stations, including UN Radio. There, he worked alongside the late DJ Pineapple, honing his craft and establishing himself in the local entertainment industry. His talent eventually led to an international DJ contract in Norway. However, despite the success and recognition, he faced disillusionment with the entertainment industry and decided to walk away from his DJ career.
Driven by a desire for greater financial stability and a new challenge, Deen Lansana Dabor ventured into the business world. He started by selling luxury cars and semi-finished wood. It was during this time that he discovered a passion for woodworking. Determined to master this new craft, he took classes and immersed himself in learning the intricacies of carpentry. This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
In July 2021, Dabor opened a small wood factory in Sierra Leone, channeling his creativity and entrepreneurial spirit into this new venture. His vision was clear: to create high-quality, custom woodwork that enhances the beauty and functionality of homes and businesses. Over the past three years, his business has grown steadily, earning a reputation for excellence and innovation.
The transition from DJ to carpenter was not without its challenges. Deen Lansana Dabor faced the typical hurdles associated with starting a new business. “In the beginning, it was difficult because whenever you start something new, challenges will definitely be there,” he recalls. However, his determination and resilience saw him through the tough times. He worked tirelessly to overcome obstacles, continuously improving his skills and expanding his business.
His journey has not only been a personal success story but also a beacon of hope for many young Sierra Leoneans. Deen Lansana Dabor wood factory has created numerous job opportunities, providing stable employment and skill development for the local youth. Through his unique art and dedication, he has contributed to the economic development of his community, proving that with passion and hard work, one can achieve great things.
As he marks the third anniversary of his woodworking venture, Deen Lansana Dabor reflects on his journey with gratitude. “Alhamdulillah, it’s going on well,” he says, expressing his satisfaction with the progress he has made. Looking ahead, he envisions further growth and innovation in his business, with plans to expand his product line and reach a broader market.
Deen Lansana Dabor studied wood science for about two years and then travelled to five Asian countries to gain experience and learn about advanced machinery used in woodworking. This extensive education and international exposure laid the foundation for his venture into the carpentry industry.
When Dabor’s wood factory started, they used small machines. Within a year of production, they upgraded to bigger machines and acquired 4.5 acres of land for factory expansion in Songo. However, the journey was not without challenges. One major issue has been electricity; the factory relies on generators, spending nearly NLe7,000 to NLe10,000 daily on diesel. Additionally, there were initial difficulties with the skill level of local workers, which led Deen Lansana Dabor to bring in foreign experts to train Sierra Leonean employees, ensuring professional and high-quality woodwork.
Looking forward, he plans to further expand his business, focusing on innovation and quality. He aims to broaden his product line and reach a wider market, continuing to provide job opportunities and contribute to the local economy. His vision includes creating a sustainable and impactful business that enhances the beauty and functionality of homes and businesses while fostering economic growth in Sierra Leone.
Deen Lansana Dabor’s journey from the DJ booth to the woodworking shop is a testament to the power of adaptability and resilience. His story serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating that with determination and a willingness to embrace change, one can carve out new paths and create lasting impacts. As he continues to innovate and inspire, his legacy in both the music and woodworking industries is sure to endure.
