By Abubakarr Harding
St Edwards Field witnessed a vibrant display of athleticism and camaraderie on Saturday, May 20, 2023, as Orange Sierra Leone, one of the leading telecommunication companies in the country, organized its inaugural athletic Sports Day. Recognizing the significance of employee motivation in a well-functioning management system, Orange SL took a proactive step in fostering team spirit and reinforcing its commitment to employee welfare.
Elizabeth Walker, the Operational Marketing Manager and President of Connect (Welfare Team) of Orange SL, expressed her excitement at the company’s first venture into organizing an athletic sports event. Welcoming all the participants and attendees, she extended her gratitude to the sponsors whose support made the Sports Day possible.
In her address, Walker congratulated the winners, emphasizing that in such events, everyone is a winner, irrespective of their rank on the scoreboard. This sentiment resonated with the company’s philosophy of valuing every individual’s contribution and acknowledging their efforts.
Agnes M. Songa, the Human Resource Director of Orange SL, joined Walker in expressing appreciation to all present particularly those who traveled from the provinces to attend the sports meet. She hailed the Sports Day as a remarkable milestone for Orange SL, marking their inaugural sports event.
She said that traditionally, sports meets are associated with schools, but Orange SL has now set a new precedent by taking the lead as a corporate institution.
Songa highlighted that the purpose of the event was not merely to compete but to foster fun, interaction, and the development of transversal working relationships among colleagues. By bringing employees together, Orange SL aimed to create a platform where they could connect with new colleagues they may not have previously met in the workplace.
Songa concluded her remarks by officially declaring the Sports Day open on behalf of the CEO, symbolizing the company’s wholehearted support for the event and its commitment to nurturing a positive work environment.
The Sports Day organized by Orange SL not only showcased the company’s dedication to its employees’ well-being but also demonstrated their forward-thinking approach to team building and employee engagement. By encouraging participation and providing a platform for interaction beyond the confines of the office, Orange SL has set a new benchmark for corporate events in Sierra Leone.
The success of this inaugural Sports Day serves as a testament to Orange SL’s commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive workplace culture. As the company continues to prioritize employee motivation and team building, it is poised to further strengthen its position as a leader in the telecommunications industry and an exemplary corporate citizen.
