Outstanding Sierra Leoneans from across the United States were honored for their leadership, humanitarian service, entrepreneurship, cultural preservation and community development at the Third Annual Salone Awards of Excellence USA, held in early July 2026 at the Tracy Civic Center, 333 Civic Center Plaza, Tracy, California.
Organized under the theme “Wan Salone,” the annual event brought together distinguished guests, community leaders, entrepreneurs, entertainers, professionals and supporters from across the United States to celebrate Sierra Leoneans whose achievements continue to positively impact communities at home and throughout the diaspora.
According to James Barack Kamara, a Theatre Technology and Arts student at Foothill College, California, and the organization’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the awards were established to recognize Sierra Leoneans whose dedication, integrity and selfless service inspire others while strengthening communities around the world.
“The Salone Awards of Excellence USA was created to celebrate Sierra Leoneans whose dedication and selfless service continue to make meaningful contributions to our communities. Every award presented represents a story of sacrifice, commitment and excellence that deserves to be celebrated and remembered,” Kamara said.
Among the evening’s most celebrated recipients was Mrs. Kadijatu Rahman Kabba, who received both the Honorary Woman of the Year Award and the People’s Choice Award, making her one of the biggest winners of the night.
Organizers recognized Mrs. Kabba for her exceptional humanitarian work, community leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting Sierra Leoneans in the United States and internationally. They noted that, since the inception of the awards, she has consistently provided guidance, encouragement and financial support while promoting unity within the Sierra Leonean community.
The ceremony also honored Mr. Joseph Sahr Musa with the Ultimate Icon and Global Impact Award* in recognition of his lifelong dedication to preserving Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage and promoting community development. Organizers described him as an influential leader whose humility, vision and commitment to service have earned him widespread admiration among Sierra Leoneans at home and across the diaspora.
Entertainment personality *Gerald S. Samah Jr., popularly known as Deejay Sen, received the Legendary DJ in Entertainment Award for his remarkable contribution to Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry and his continued efforts to empower young people through music, mentorship and community engagement.
An emotional moment during the ceremony came with the posthumous recognition of the late Gerald Senesie Samah Sr. (DJ Samah), who received the Lifetime Achievement Award (Male) for his immense contribution to entertainment and community service.
Accepting the award on behalf of his late father, Deejay Sen paid tribute to his enduring legacy, describing him as a pioneer whose passion and dedication continue to inspire the next generation of entertainers.
The ceremony also paid tribute to the late Mrs. Prosper Euphemia Davies, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award (Female). Organizers described her as a resilient community leader and devoted family woman whose legacy of compassion, service and leadership continues to inspire Sierra Leoneans around the world.
Among the other distinguished recipients was Abdulkarim Dumbuya, popularly known as AKD The Great, who received the Most Excellent Personality of the Year Award. A scholar, entertainer and Chief Executive Officer of the Western Striker Community Charity Organization, AKD was recognized for successfully combining academic excellence, entertainment and humanitarian service to positively impact vulnerable communities.
Entertainment executive Dalo Smok, Chief Executive Officer of Eastern Kartel, received the Ultimate Icon/Entertainment Manager of the Year Award* for his leadership and contribution to promoting Sierra Leonean music and artists in the United States.
Sierra Leone’s current Peace Ambassador, Shady Baby, was honored with the Legendary Musician of the Year Award* in recognition of his contribution to the country’s music industry and his continued advocacy for peace, unity and national cohesion through music.
Community leader Joseph Mustapha was also recognized for his longstanding contribution to community development and his commitment to improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans both locally and internationally.
The Best Humanitarian of the Year Award* was presented to Mohamed Tarawali, popularly known as Shogan, whose years of charitable service and dedication to supporting vulnerable people have earned him widespread respect within the Sierra Leonean community.
Veteran master of ceremonies Mike Anthony completed the list of distinguished honorees after receiving the Best MC/Show Presenter of the Year Award* in recognition of his professionalism, consistency and outstanding contribution to entertainment and event hosting.
Mrs. Kabba and her family also received the Woman of the Year and People’s Choice Awards.
Beyond the presentation of awards, the ceremony featured colorful cultural performances, live musical entertainment and moments of reflection celebrating Sierra Leone’s rich heritage and the achievements of its citizens across various professions.
As the event concluded, the award recipients thanked the organizers for recognizing their efforts and pledged to continue doing more for humanity and their communities.