By Abdul Kamara

Bo City was filled with hope and inspiration over the weekend as more than 200 teenage girls gathered for a one-day conference organized by Legacy Empire, a local non-governmental organization committed to supporting vulnerable communities.

The event, held under the theme “Beauty With A Purpose,” brought together students, street children, and church youth groups in what many described as a life-changing experience.

The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Dr. S.B.E.B. Johnson, founder of New Harvest Global Ministries, who spoke passionately about the importance of living with purpose. He urged the girls to stay committed to their education, avoid distractions, and remain focused on their dreams. “When you know your purpose, you live with clarity and confidence,” he said, commending Legacy Empire for investing in Sierra Leone’s future through girls’ education.

Beyond the words of encouragement, Legacy Empire gave each participant a school bag filled with learning materials. Organizers said the gesture was meant to inspire the girls while also easing the financial struggles many families face in keeping their daughters in school.

For Madam Jewel Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Legacy Empire, the vision behind the initiative is deeply personal. She recalled how in 2018 she met a barefooted girl on the streets of Freetown, an encounter that inspired her to start an organization dedicated to helping disadvantaged children, particularly young girls. “Legacy Empire exists to create opportunities for those who are often forgotten,” she said. “Many of these girls have the potential to achieve greatness, but they lack support, which is why we have brought them together, give them encouragement, and provide educational materials.”

She appealed to government institutions and development partners to support the initiative so that more districts can benefit. “We want to reach beyond Bo City. With additional resources, we can touch the lives of thousands more girls across Sierra Leone,” she added.

Parents and participants alike praised the conference. One teenage girl said the event boosted her confidence and renewed her determination to become a lawyer, while her peers pledged to stay disciplined and committed to their studies. Parents also expressed gratitude, with Jenneh Fatorma, a mother who attended the programme, calling it “a timely intervention” that not only supports education, but also shapes mindsets and futures.

The Bo conference has reaffirmed Legacy Empire’s role as a driving force for youth empowerment. With growing calls for wider support, the organization is steadily positioning itself as a key partner in Sierra Leone’s push to nurture the next generation of women leaders.