By Ibrahim S. Bangura
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs in Sierra Leone has organized a national audition for fashion designers in preparation for the upcoming Women in Tourism Regional Congress. The congress, which is scheduled for October 29-31, 2024, is a collaboration with the United Nations Tourism and promises to be a major international event for the region.
The auditions offered local fashion designers a unique platform to showcase their talents, creativity, and craftsmanship. Designers presented their collections, demonstrating expertise in trend analysis, pattern making, garment construction, and sewing techniques. The use of African fabrics and the integration of organic and recycled materials were particularly emphasized, reflecting a focus on sustainability, tradition, and environmental consciousness.
At the end of the auditions, three prominent Sierra Leonean designers—Davida Peacock-Sawyerr, Mariama Kamara, and Phedelia Thomas—were selected to represent Sierra Leone at an upcoming fashion expo in China. Their selection highlights the country’s growing reputation in the fashion industry and the international potential of its designers.
Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Khadijatu Grace Kamara, praised the dedication and creativity of the designers. She noted that the auditions were carefully planned to ensure a diverse range of products and avoid duplication at the Congress, thereby enriching Sierra Leone’s representation.
In addition to the fashion event, the Chef Association of Sierra Leone will also participate in the Congress by hosting live cooking demonstrations of traditional Sierra Leonean dishes. This collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism is designed to promote the country’s rich culinary heritage on a global scale.
Kamara further emphasized the dual objectives of these initiatives: to nurture and develop local talent while also raising the international profile of Sierra Leonean culture. The comprehensive preparations for the Women in Tourism Regional Congress reflect a broader strategy to elevate Sierra Leone’s standing in global tourism and cultural sectors.
This landmark event signifies an important step toward showcasing Sierra Leone’s unique artistic and culinary traditions on the world stage.