By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leone’s creative industry is set to receive a major boost with the official launch of the Hawawa Academy of Fashion & Creative Arts, scheduled to open its doors in November this year. The Academy, founded by Chief Executive Officer Hawawa Turay, promises to transform the country’s fashion and creative landscape by providing world-class training and opportunities for aspiring professionals.
Speaking at the announcement, CEO Hawawa Turay described the Academy as a “dream finally becoming a reality.” She explained that the institution was born out of her vision to create a platform where passion meets professionalism, enabling Sierra Leoneans to compete on the international stage.
“For too long, our young people have had the passion and raw talent, but not enough platforms to refine their skills and compete globally,” Hawawa Turay said. “At Hawawa Academy, every program is designed to give students not just technical knowledge but the confidence and mindset to succeed anywhere.”
The Academy will offer specialized courses across several fields in the creative industry, catering to both beginners and professionals seeking to sharpen their skills. The available programs include:
- Fashion Design – covering sketching, tailoring, garment construction and fashion business management.
- Cosmetology – training in skincare, body treatments and wellness practices.
- Makeup Artistry – focusing on beauty, bridal and special effects makeup.
- Event Management – equipping students with planning, coordination and logistics skills.
- Hairdressing – from traditional styles to modern techniques in hair care and styling.
- Nails & Lashes – focusing on grooming, nail artistry and lash extensions.
- Entrepreneurship in the Arts – providing the business foundation needed to succeed in the creative economy.
Hawawa Turay emphasized that the Academy is not just about teaching practical skills but also about instilling discipline, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. “Our vision is to provide not just training but a complete foundation for success in the creative industry,” she said.
To deliver this vision, Hawawa Academy has assembled a distinguished team of tutors made up of Sierra Leone’s finest professionals as well as internationally recognized experts from Nigeria, Ghana and other parts of Africa. The diverse faculty will bring global perspectives, fresh ideas and practical experience into every classroom.
“This is about raising the bar and ensuring Sierra Leoneans are trained to international standards,” Hawawa Turay explained. “We want to give our students exposure to global best practices while keeping them rooted in our cultural identity.”
The Academy aims to position Sierra Leone as a hub for fashion and creative innovation in West Africa. Beyond training, it seeks to create opportunities for students to showcase their work locally and internationally through exhibitions, fashion shows and partnerships with industry players.
Hawawa Turay believes that the Hawawa Academy is just the beginning of a larger movement to transform the creative sector in Sierra Leone. “Together, we are going to put Sierra Leone firmly on the map in the world of fashion and creative arts,” she said with optimism.
Enrollment for the first batch of students is now officially open, with the Academy encouraging interested individuals to secure their places early. Hawawa Turay urged young people with a passion for creativity to take advantage of this opportunity to turn their talent into a sustainable career.
For more information and registration, the public can contact +232 72705400.
With the launch of this Academy, Sierra Leone’s creative industry is on the brink of a new chapter; one that promises empowerment, innovation and global recognition for its talents.
