By: Audrey Raymonda John
With support from Kadat Food and Beverages, Sky Vision College of Digital Technology and Management celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) on Saturday, 8th March 2025. The event, held at the institution’s conference room at Wilberforce Campus in Freetown, was organised under the theme “Accelerate Action.”
The celebration featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Haja Binta Jalloh, Honorary Consul of the Netherlands for Sierra Leone; Madam Tsitsi Muvunzi, Consultant with UN Women and Director of Yamsal Development Services; Mrs. Athira Savin, Senior Technical Consultant at Sedin Technologies Pvt Ltd; and Mrs. Ashna Jobin Jose, Senior Account Manager at G Shankerdas and Sons SL Ltd. These accomplished women shared their experiences, challenges, and insights, inspiring students and attendees to pursue their goals fearlessly.
Welcoming participants, the Chief Marketing Officer of Sky Vision College, Madam Reshma Kadam, emphasised the institution’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that empowers women to excel in technology, business, and leadership. The discussions covered critical topics, including women’s representation in STEM, entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership.
In her keynote address, Haja Binta Jalloh, the Honorary Consul of Sierra Leone to the Netherlands, stressed the urgency of accelerating efforts to bridge the gender gap. “Gender equality is not just a women’s issue, it is a human rights issue and a prerequisite for sustainable development. We must all work together—government, businesses, and individuals—to create a world where women and girls have equal opportunities to thrive,” she stated.
Janet Alieu, an inspiring woman of Generation Two, discussed how International Women’s Day honours the achievements, strength, and resilience of women around the world. She added that the day is also a reminder of the work still needed to create a world where gender equality is not a goal but a reality. “Women have been at the forefront of change throughout history,” she said, noting that while incredible accomplishments have been made, there is still much more to be done.
Kadijatu M. Barrie, a Software Engineering student, highlighted that Women’s Day is a time to inspire strength, rise up, speak up, and be heard. “Education is power, let’s use it wisely,” she informed the audience, describing women as not just survivors but warriors, leaders, and change-makers. “Let’s create a community where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of gender,” she urged, encouraging fellow women to support and uplift one another.
A representative from the Kadat Group of Companies reaffirmed the company’s dedication to fostering gender equality and empowering women. “We are honoured to collaborate with Sky Vision College on this meaningful occasion. At Kadat, we firmly believe that empowering women is a catalyst for innovation and societal progress, and we remain committed to supporting initiatives that create lasting impact,” the representative stated.
