By Hasbin Shaw
The Salone Awards of Excellence (SAE – USA) on Saturday, July 6, 2024, honored exemplary Sierra Leoneans who have lived in the United States of America and have contributed immensely to the development of their communities.
The award ceremony which took place in California brought together esteemed community stakeholders in USA, celebrated outstanding contributions of Sierra Leoneans in their various communities both locally and in the diaspora.
Speaking at the event, the Chairperson of Salone Awards of Excellence, Abdul Karim Dumbuya said that the primary objective of the prestigious awards is to highlights some of the success stories of the country’s great warriors such as Kai Londo, Madam Yoko, Bai Bureh, Sengbeh Pieh, etc. He said that of these great men and women, Sengbeh Pieh appears to be a significant highlight, as he fought to liberate Sierra
Leoneans,” he noted.
The highlights of the ceremony were Mr. Benedict Bejigbayei who received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement award as well as Personality of the Year Award, for his tireless dedication and contributions to the Sierra Leonean community. Bajigbayei’s selflessness, nationalism and love for his people marked him a role model for modern society, according to the organizers. Mr. Ishmael Kamara who received the Best Sportsmanship Award for his commitment to the Saline San Jose Soccer Team and Abu Bouckarie Samah received the Best Young Sport Personality Award, as a way to recognize his passion for sport in America.
The event also featured fascinating performances by notably Sierra Leonean entertainers such as the Dry Eye Crew, which includes Pupa Bajah, Papa Klass etc, “As we look forward to the 2025 Salone Awards of Excellence, we eagerly anticipates the celebration of more outstanding achievements as a way to honor the legacy of our modern day Sengbe Piehs,” Abdul Karim concluded.