Sierra Leonean performance artist and 2009 Miss World finalist Mariatu Kargbo popularly known as the Black Pearl of China continue her philanthropic efforts by making further donations to those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and by marking Ramadan in her home nation.

During this testing period for the whole world, Maria donated sanitizers, hand wash buckets, tissues, soap, face masks and other important items to eight different markets and community centres in Freetown.

To mark Ramadan, she has continued her annual support to over 60 different mosques and community societies across the country.

Community leaders in Sierra Leone thanked Mariatu for her support, with leaders of the Devil Hole, Lakka and King Jimmie Markets noting that. “This is not a surprise as Mariatu always gives back to her country and we are proud of her contributions to our country”.

Speaking about this work, Mariatu says, “Sierra Leone is first in my heart and I want to make my country proud and great. I have studied a lot during my time in China and I want to make sure my country is respected for its support for its citizens as in China. For me, it’s love Salone first and I hope others will feel the same and make their own efforts to put the country first. Thank you everyone, Xiexie Dajia”

Mariatu’s most recent project is Small Small Chinese, a charitable initiative that teaches people simple Chinese words and phrases and she encourages all politicians, business people, students and tourists to follow the videos available on social media.