Every year, Australian Sierra Leoneans come together to celebrate Sierra Leone Independence Day in a grand and festive manner. This year, the celebration was hosted in Melbourne, with representatives from all six states of Australia coming together to showcase their pride and unity as a community.

The festivities included various activities such as a football tournament, cultural performances, homemade Sierra Leonean dishes, and a beauty pageant. These activities were carefully planned to not only celebrate the independence of Sierra Leone but also to create awareness and a sense of belonging among Sierra Leoneans living in Australia. It was a chance for our community to come together, work in unity, and spread love and happiness within the country we now call home.

Australia is known for its multiculturalism and diversity, with people from all corners of the world coming together under one Constitution. This Independence Day celebration was a perfect example of how different communities can come together and celebrate their heritage while embracing their new home.

The football tournament was a highlight of the event, with teams from each state competing fiercely to represent their respective regions. The Canberra team was the first to be knocked out, followed by Adelaide. Perth and Sydney made it to the semi-finals, along with Brisbane and Melbourne, the host state. The final match between Sydney and Brisbane was intense, with Brisbane emerging victorious with a score of 3-2. The boys played exceptionally well, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.

Saa James, the goalkeeper and captain of the Brisbane team, expressed his joy at winning the tournament and being named the best goalkeeper. He highlighted the importance of the Independence Day celebration in bringing awareness and a sense of belonging to the Sierra Leonean community in Australia. The beauty pageant was another highlight of the event, with representatives from Melbourne taking home the crown and showcasing the beauty and grace of Sierra Leonean women.