By Sulaiman Jalloh
Sonoco Sierra Leone, through its Bread Avenue Academy based in Wellington, east of Freetown, proudly celebrated the graduation of 197 students in a ceremony that marked a significant step forward in vocational training and youth empowerment. On July 11, 2025 the graduates completed an intensive six-month, tuition-free program in pastry making, baking, and entrepreneurship.
Delivering the keynote address, Mark Pritchard, Managing Director of Sonoco Sierra Leone, described the occasion as a major milestone for both the company and the academy, this six-month journey of free training was no small feat,” he said, acknowledging the dedication of the students and expressing gratitude to the government of Sierra Leone for its continued support of the initiative.
Pritchard revealed that several graduates had already secured employment as a result of the hands-on training they received, this is not the end of the journey, he emphasized. I urge you all to remain focused and determined as you move forward in your careers.
Alhaji Chernor Sadu Jalloh, chairman of the Sierra Leone Bakers Association, hailed the graduation ceremony as a historic day for the baking industry, he applauded Sonoco’s efforts to empower young people and encouraged families to continue supporting their children’s vocational ambitions, this is a life-changing program, he stated, treat it as a golden opportunity, the ceremony was also filled with powerful testimonies from the graduates.
Yankaday Mariatu Jalloh, one of the graduates, shared her inspiring story of resilience and determination, it wasn’t easy, but by the grace of Allah, I’ve established my own bakery, she said to resounding applause. Some people say women can’t run bakeries, but I’ve proven them wrong. The skills I gained here have changed my life.
A 51-year-old graduate and community activist added a heartfelt message: Age doesn’t matter. As a woman, you must be intentional in whatever you do. She encouraged young girls to stay determined and embrace opportunities for self-development.
Ibrahim Koroma, another graduate, thanked the academy’s trainers and staff for their tireless support, there were challenges along the way, but the dedication of our teachers kept us going, he said.
In her vote of thanks on behalf of the graduating class, Maria Masum expressed deep appreciation to Sonoco Sierra Leone, the instructors, and the families of the students. Today is not the end it’s the beginning of a brighter future. Let’s remember that with hard work, anything is possible, she declared.
The graduation ceremony ended on a high note, filled with cheers, heartfelt emotions, and renewed hope for the future of baking and entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone. The Bread Avenue Academy continues to stand as a beacon of opportunity, particularly for youth and women seeking to transform their lives through practical skills and enterprise.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday,14th July, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
