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A singing competition organized by the Balanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts, in partnership with the European Union (EU), is currently underway in Sierra Leone as part of efforts to raise awareness and campaign against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through music.
Speaking to the press, Leslie Cummings Ray, Senior Teacher at the Balanta Academy, said the initiative seeks to use music as a powerful and lasting medium to address GBV and inspire social change. “Music goes beyond words; it resonates deeply and stays longer in people’s minds. That’s why we believe it is an effective tool to promote awareness and fight against GBV,” he explained.
According to Mr. Ray, the competition is designed to encourage artists and songwriters to channel their creativity toward addressing this critical issue affecting many communities in Sierra Leone.
Competition Details;
Applicants are required to fill out a form, record a song on their phone, and submit it through the provided contact numbers. Submit via WhatsApp to: +232 76 111 882 or +232 88 591 619
Register Via : Register Here
The deadline for submission is October 31, and eligibility is limited to Sierra Leonean residents aged 18 to 35. The competition is open to both individuals and groups, and performances can be in any Sierra Leonean language or singing style.
After submissions close, judges will shortlist eight finalists, who will perform live at the final concert on December 12 at the Freetown City Council Auditorium. From these finalists, three overall winners will be selected.
The winners will receive both cash prizes and professional development opportunities:
1st Place: SLL 30,000
2nd Place: SLL 20,000
3rd Place: SLL 10,000
The remaining five finalists will also receive consolation prizes.
In addition, the top three winners will have their songs professionally recorded in a studio, with ownership held by the EU but with continued usage rights retained by the artists. Each of the three winners will also receive a one-year scholarship to study music at the Balanta Academy, aimed at enhancing their musical skills and advancing their careers.
Mr. Ray emphasized that this competition is part of a sustained effort by Balanta and the EU to combat GBV through creative expression. “These recorded songs will continue to spread the message far and wide, reminding people of the need to stand against gender-based violence,” he said.
He added that while this initiative focuses on GBV, future collaborations between Balanta and the EU will also address other pressing social issues to promote positive change and human development in Sierra Leone.
