By Foday Moriba Conteh
The Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL) has on Saturday 5th April, 2025 concluded a two-day intensive orientation workshop for its newly elected National Executive Committee (NEC), Senior Management Team (SMT) and Management Staff at the Leisure Lodge Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown.
The Acting Executive Director of PPASL, Gladis A. Goba, who has been serving in the interim role since March 3, 2025 and will officially hand over to the newly appointed Executive Director 14th April, 2025, officially opened the session.
In her address, she expressed deep appreciation to the PPASL Board for entrusting her with the responsibility of leading the organization during a pivotal transition period.
“Though the journey has been short, we have achieved tremendous milestones,” she remarked. “These include the successful recruitment of a new Executive Director, staff promotions and a comprehensive review of key policies and conditions of service.”
Gladis A. Goba thanked the staff for their unwavering support and collaboration, emphasizing that the recent successes underscore the power of unity and collective will.
She extended a warm welcome to participants from across the country, including delegates from Bo, Kenema, Port Loko, Lunsar, the Western Area and also formally introduced and welcomed Augustine A.K. Allieu as the incoming Executive Director of PPASL.
“On behalf of the NEC, volunteers and staff, we thank you for accepting to serve in this capacity,” she said, adding that the orientation will provide him with insights into the organization’s operations, values and mission.
The two-day workshop is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively contribute to PPASL’s vision. According to Ms. Gladis A. Goba, the training is expected to enhance teamwork, foster collaboration and promote a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.
She encouraged all attendees to actively participate in discussions, ask questions and share ideas, stressing the importance of understanding both the mission and the purpose behind their work.
“This is more than just a training it’s the beginning of a journey,” she said. “Every role, no matter how small, contributes to the bigger picture. Together, we can achieve great things.”
Hassan Fuad Kanu, Honorary President of the Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL), called on staff and volunteers of the organization to embrace internal reflection, improved teamwork and a new governance culture, as the Association celebrates its 65th anniversary.
Reflecting on his personal journey with PPASL, Hassan Fuad Kanu said: “I joined this Association in 2007 as a youth. I’ve served in various capacities from Vice Chair to Chairperson for the Western Area and eventually as a Board Member. So I’m not new to the work and I know what it means to identify problems and propose solutions.”
He described the December 21st, 2024 leadership election as a turning point for the Association, with members opting for transformation by electing a leader with institutional knowledge and youthful energy. “It’s like an old wine in a new bottle,” he said.
Hassan Fuad Kanu praised the uniqueness of the current orientation, noting that unlike in the past where external facilitators were brought in, this year’s workshop is being facilitated by Sierra Leonean professionals. He emphasized the importance of homegrown solutions and inclusive governance:
“This is not just an NEC affair. The SMT, the people managing daily operations, must also be part of the governance conversation.”
He underscored the importance of collaboration between volunteers and staff, saying: “We are in this together. Let’s not only demand what we want, but also ask what we’re contributing.”
He also described the two-day retreat as an opportunity for deeper bonding and understanding among team members through formal discussions and informal interactions.
Ending his speech on a high note, Hassan Fuad Kanu warmly welcomed the newly appointed Executive Director, Augustine Ambrose Karim Allieu, describing him as “a senior brother in the NGO world” with vast experience.
“Much is given and much will be expected. Let’s not stretch our hands only to receive but to give, to grow and to transform this great Association.”
On his part, Augustine Ambrose Karim Allieu, newly appointed Executive Director of the Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL), a seasoned development professional with over 15 years of experience in international NGOs across Sierra Leone, Liberia and Senegal, expressed optimism about the future of PPASL.
“I see PPASL as an organization with huge opportunities, but also some challenges,” he said. “My goal is to work with all of you to rebrand PPASL into a nationally recognized household name. We want to improve our services and programs, attract the right resources and most importantly, motivate and capacitate our staff to deliver excellently.”
Augustine Allieu outlined his commitment to building a dynamic and responsive organization through strengthened visibility, renewed partnerships with Government entities and international agencies, and fostering a collaborative work environment.
“This is not a one-man job,” he noted. “It will require strong team spirit, shared goals and collective energy to push the organization forward.”
He underscored the importance of the orientation workshop, describing it as a “refresh button” for both new and continuing members of PPASL. The new Executive Director commended the organizers for designing a rich and relevant agenda focused on governance, program development and organizational management.
“In a fast-evolving world, especially in the areas of sexual and reproductive health, youth empowerment and gender equality, organizations like ours must constantly renew themselves. This orientation is critical for us to align with global and local trends,” Augustine Allieu explained.
Outlining his priorities for the first 100 days in office, he stated that his immediate focus would be to assess the current state of the organization, identify quick wins and lay the foundation for long-term growth.
“In the next three months, I want us to begin rebranding efforts, initiate staff capacity building and position the organization to attract more funding. I also hope to establish stronger relationships with Government Ministries, Departments, Agencies and donor partners,” he said.
He closed by thanking PPASL’s Board, staff and volunteers for their warm welcome and reiterated his readiness to work in partnership with all stakeholders to advance the Association’s mission.
The orientation workshop also featured the official signing of the Executive Director’s contract, followed by sessions jointly facilitated by Davis Williams, former Executive Director of PPASL and Dr. Victor Massaquoi, former Director of Programs at PPASL.
