Twelve-year-old African American author of Sierra Leonean parentage, Amy Kargbo, has encouraged young Sierra Leoneans to pursue their dreams, embrace education and use science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to help build a brighter future.
Amy Kargbo delivered the message on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, in commemoration of International Youth Day, which is observed annually on 12 August to celebrate young people and highlight their contributions, aspirations and challenges.
The young author, who specializes in STEM-related subjects, views the field not merely as an academic interest or hobby but as an empowerment tool for her generation and future generations.
In her message, Amy Kargbo reminded young people across Sierra Leone that their backgrounds should never prevent them from pursuing their ambitions or achieving success.
“To all the young people of Sierra Leone, I want you to know that your dreams matter,” Amy Kargbo stated.
She encouraged young Sierra Leoneans to explore different professions and believe in their ability to become scientists, engineers, doctors, programmers, inventors, astronauts, farmers or anything else they choose.
Amy Kargbo stressed the importance of continuous learning and curiosity, urging young people to ask questions, acquire knowledge and resist the belief that their place of birth or social circumstances determine how far they can progress.
“Keep learning, keep asking questions, and never think that where you come from limits where you can go,” Amy Kargbo said.
According to the young author, education provides children and young people with the ability to discover possibilities that they may not previously have recognized. She said access to knowledge could broaden their understanding of the world and equip them to develop solutions to challenges confronting their communities.
Amy Kargbo identified STEM education as a powerful instrument for solving problems, creating opportunities and supporting Sierra Leone’s long-term development.
She maintained that science and technology could enable young people to design practical solutions, promote innovation and contribute meaningfully to national progress.
Amy Kargbo, however, emphasized that every child must be given an opportunity to learn, explore, create and discover, including those who do not have access to the same resources and educational opportunities as others.
Her appeal highlighted the need for inclusive education and greater investment in learning opportunities that reach children from different social and economic backgrounds.
She expressed hope that her generation would develop the courage to pursue ambitious goals, remain curious enough to continue learning and demonstrate compassion by helping others along their journeys.
“I hope my generation will be brave enough to dream big, curious enough to keep learning, and caring enough to help someone else along the way,” Amy Kargbo stated.
She also called on young people to recognize that Sierra Leone’s future is a shared responsibility which requires cooperation, creativity and determination.
“The future of Sierra Leone belongs to all of us, and I believe we can make it brighter together,” she said.
Amy Kargbo’s International Youth Day message reflected the growing importance of youth participation in education, innovation, technology and national development.
Her remarks also underscored the potential of young people in the diaspora to remain connected to Sierra Leone and contribute ideas capable of inspiring their peers at home.
Through her writing and interest in STEM, Amy Kargbo seeks to encourage other children to see education as a pathway to empowerment, innovation and service.
She concluded her message by wishing young people across Sierra Leone a happy International Youth Day and reaffirming her belief in their ability to create positive change.
