By Mohamed Konneh
History was made on Wednesday 20th May 2026 at CASA Leone Hospital Training Center.
Caritas Freetown celebrated the First Graduation Ceremony of the Casa Leone Hospitality Training Center at the Casa Leone School Compound in Freetown.
The memorable occasion marked not only the graduation of the first batch of students, but also the beginning of new hope, empowerment, and transformation for young people in Sierra Leone.
The Casa Leone Hospitality Training Center was established to provide practical hospitality and life skills training to vulnerable and unemployed youth, empowering them to become self-reliant, disciplined, and productive citizens.
In his keynote address the Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh said ‘’As Caritas Freetown, we firmly believe that investing in young people is investing in the future of our nation. Skills training and education remain powerful tools in combating unemployment, poverty, drug abuse, violence, and hopelessness among our youth’’.
Fr. Konteh noted that the graduands leave not only with certificates, but with confidence, professionalism, dignity, and renewed hope for the future.
‘’We extend our profound gratitude to our partners and benefactors, especially MAGA Fundación from Spain, for their generous support and commitment to youth empowerment in Sierra Leone.
Special appreciation also goes to Andrea, our dedicated Project Director Isatu, our hardworking Caritas Freetown team, trainers, facilitators, finance department, construction team, and everyone who contributed to the success of this initiative,’’ he said.
This graduation he said is only the beginning and that they are committed to expanding opportunities for more young people across Sierra Leone through skills training, empowerment, and sustainable development initiatives.
Fr. Konteh continue saying ‘’your future is bright. Continue believing in yourselves and using your talents to transform society.
He said the day is day is truly historic and joyful moment for Caritas Freetown as we celebrate the First
He said as Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, I stand here today with a heart full of gratitude and pride. ‘’We are witnessing the fruits of commitment, partnership, sacrifice, and belief in the potential of our young people’’.
Sierra Leone continues to face serious socio-economic challenges, especially among the youth population. According to various labour and development reports, youth unemployment and underemployment remain among the biggest concerns in our country. Many young people struggle daily to find opportunities for decent work, vocational training, and economic independence.
When young people are left without opportunities, skills, or hope, society becomes vulnerable to many social problems. Some youth become victims of drug abuse, violence, crime, and dangerous migration. Many young women, because of economic hardship and lack of opportunities, are pushed into risky situations, including prostitution and exploitation, simply to survive.
Fr. Konteh noted that this reality calls for action — not only words.
‘’At Caritas Freetown, we believe that every young person deserves dignity, opportunity, and the chance to develop their God-given talents. We believe that empowerment through education and skills training is one of the strongest tools to fight poverty, dependency, frustration, and hopelessness.’’ he said.
The Executive Director of Caritas Freetown noted that Casa Leone Hospitality Training Center was established — to equip young people with practical skills, discipline, confidence, and character formation so they can stand on their own feet and contribute positively to society.
He said hospitality is not simply about serving food or welcoming guests. It is about professionalism, discipline, communication, teamwork, creativity, respect, and entrepreneurship.
These are life skills that can open doors to employment and self-reliance.
Caritas Freetown mission goes beyond charity. The organization believe in restoring dignity, building resilience, and creating sustainable opportunities for vulnerable communities.
