The Global Foundation for Women and Development (GFWD) held a prestigious awards ceremony on January 6, 2024, honoring four exceptional Sierra Leonean women for their outstanding contributions to national development and their impact on the lives of many. The event, filled with glamour and celebration, acknowledged the remarkable achievements of Mrs. Minny H. Mahoi Gilles, Madam Adama B. Wurie, Mrs. Margaret A.A.E. Nelson-Williams, and Haja Theresa F. Swaray.
Madam Adama B. Wurie, a distinguished recipient, completed her education in Social Work and Social Administration at the University of Swansea, South Wales. She later earned a BSc and Master’s degrees in Social Administration and Applied Social Work from Warwick University, UK. Madam Wurie dedicated her career to serving with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees across various countries, providing care and resettlement opportunities for refugees.
Mrs. Minny H. Mahoi Gilles, recognized for her heart of service and commitment, was praised for her positive outlook on life and her ability to find good in every situation. Her unwavering dedication to faith, family, and community resonated with those who acknowledged her contributions.
Mrs. Margaret A.A.E. Nelson-Williams, with an academic background in Fashion and Textile Design, served Sierra Leone for 44 years in various capacities, including as a teacher and Head of Department at the Milton Margai College of Education and Technology. Her impactful leadership and community development efforts were highlighted during the ceremony.
Haja Theresa F. Swaray, a Maternal Child Health Aid Nurse, served as a Community Health Officer for decades in Potoru, Pujehun District. After retirement, she continued to contribute to her community as a consultant in Barrie chiefdom.
The awards ceremony, held at the Conference Hall of the Council of Churches in Freetown, featured a well-attended and glamorous gathering. The four awardees each received a star trophy, medal, and ‘kente’ sash in recognition of their exceptional achievements.
The Mayor of Freetown, Her Worship Yvonne Akie Sawyer, praised the sacrifices made by the awardees and expressed honor in presenting the awards. Dr. Margaret Konima Sesay, the founding member and Director of GFWD, commended the awardees for their contributions to women in Sierra Leone. Dr. Sesay also acknowledged the generous sponsors and supporters of GFWD, emphasizing the importance of celebrating and acknowledging amazing women.
During the event, Dr. Sesay launched the Girls Empowerment and Development Program for Harford School for Girls in Moyamba, aiming to support girls with sanitary products for a year. Mrs. Margaret Nelson-Williams announced her upcoming footwear factory in Freetown, and some proceeds from the awards ceremony would be donated to the shoe project.
The ceremony also highlighted GFWD’s efforts in the nationwide apron project, donating over 700 aprons to market women for hygiene and sanitation purposes. The event included a fashion and fascinator show by Mrs. Margaret Nelson-Williams, adding an element of elegance to the celebration.
The co-Masters of the Ceremony, Dr. Margaret Konima Sesay and Mr. Victor Brown, ensured a smoothly conducted event. Overall, the evening was a splendid combination of elegance, glamour, celebration, and recognition, reflecting the extraordinary achievements of the awardees and the impactful work of GFWD.