By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
In a vibrant celebration of creativity and activism, AMREF Health Africa, in partnership with Youth in Action (Y-Act), hosted a Youth Talent Show on Monday aimed at raising awareness around Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) with a focus on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child marriage, and menstrual health.
The event, held in commemoration of the Day of the African Child, brought together over 100 participants, including students, youth advocates, and SRHR sector leaders, creating a dynamic space for learning, expression, and empowerment.
With the global youth population reaching 1.8 billion, the call for comprehensive SRHR policies is more pressing than ever. Despite SRHR being recognized as fundamental human rights, young people especially girls continue to face barriers such as limited access to healthcare, inadequate sexuality education, and entrenched social stigma.
Ibrahim Marvel Kamara, Y-Act’s Coordinator, praised the strong turnout especially of young girls and emphasized the importance of equipping youth with accurate information. “This event shows how vital it is for young people to be educated on issues that affect them directly,” he said.
In just 96 hours, over 30 creative entries were submitted by youth participants addressing SRHR-related challenges in their communities. Finalists showcased their work through poetry, essays, and audio messages, with a common theme emerging: the urgent need to eliminate FGM.
One of the most impactful performances came from Titi Sankoh, a 16-year-old advocate and survivor of FGM. Sharing her personal story, she passionately called for change: “We need to stop FGM and educate others about its effects,” she urged, drawing emotional responses from the audience.
The event not only celebrated youth talent but also provided a safe space for open dialogue. Facilitators encouraged participants to submit anonymous questions, helping demystify and destigmatize sensitive topics.
Notable guests included Madam Aminata Koroma, Executive Secretary of the Forum Against Harmful Practices, and Madam Aisha Saliho-Dukuray, Project Manager at 50/50 Group, who served as judges and keynote speakers. Their presence reinforced the critical role of policy and leadership in advancing youth-centered SRHR advocacy.
The Youth Talent Show ultimately served as a powerful platform for Sierra Leonean youth to voice their concerns, share lived experiences, and demand policy reform especially in support of the amended Child Rights Act being advocated by the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs.
As the voices of young people continue to grow louder, the hope for a more informed, inclusive, and equitable future becomes ever more promise.