Our second installment of Africa Matters Spotlights features Emmanuel Tamba Johnny, a 2024 participant of the Africa Matters Ambassadors Porgram (AMAP) from Kissy Dockyard, Sierra Leone. Emmanuel's steadfast leadership and confidence have propelled him to inspire, mentor, and guide other young men in his community.
Read his story below!
What is your story? What defines you?
Growing up in the Kissy Dockyard community in Freetown, I experienced firsthand the challenges many young people face: limited access to education, lack of role models, and an uncertain future. I know what it feels like to navigate life without a clear direction. Fortunately, I was part of mentorship programs that transformed my life, helping me realize my potential. This experience inspired me to give back, particularly to the young boys in my community who face similar struggles. What defines me most is my passion for change and my commitment to lifting others up.
Through the INSPIRE Initiative, I aim to provide them with the mentorship, guidance, and practical 21st-century skills needed to unlock their potential and become self-reliant leaders. I believe every young person has untapped potential, and with the right support, they can chart a path toward a brighter future. My mission is to be that support.
What is a pressing issue/challenge happening in your community right now that you are advocating for and that readers should be paying attention to?
One pressing issue that I’m advocating for in my community is the lack of educational and leadership opportunities for young boys, aged 15 to 22. Many of them find it hard to access meaningful mentorship and skills development, which leaves them vulnerable to negative influences and limits their chances to thrive in today’s world. It's an issue that often flies under the radar but has far-reaching impacts on our community’s future.
How does (or will) your work help resolve this pressing issue/challenge affecting your community?
The INSPIRE Initiative, my Community Engagement Project under the Africa Matters Ambassadors Program, is my response to this challenge. Through leadership training, mentorship, and skills development, the project is designed to empower these young boys to become future leaders. By focusing on personal development and providing them with entrepreneurial skills, we aim to transform their outlook and equip them with tools to create better opportunities for themselves. We’re not only giving them a path forward; we’re encouraging them to step into leadership roles within the community to ensure long-term positive change.
Myself and some of the young boys after some short inspiration talk in the Kissy Dockyard Community, Freetown
What are some key takeaways from the Africa Matters Ambassadors Program that have reshaped the way you will execute your work for your community?
The Africa Matters Ambassadors Program has profoundly reshaped how I will approach this project. I’ve learned the importance of grassroots development, storytelling for impact, and inclusive leadership. One of the most significant takeaways for me has been how to engage my community members effectively. I now see that real change comes when you involve the community at every step, making them part of the solution rather than just recipients of aid.
What are you most looking forward to in the next couple of months in the Africa Matters Ambassadors Program?
In the coming months, I’m looking forward to building deeper connections with mentors, refining my skills in project management, and learning more about sustainable approaches to social impact. I’m excited to see how these lessons will shape the future of the INSPIRE Initiative and the positive changes we can bring to the Kissy Dockyard community and beyond.
