The Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL) has successfully wrapped up a two-day orientation workshop for its newly elected National Executive Committee (NEC), Senior Management Team (SMT), and Management Staff.
The event took place on Saturday, 5th April, 2025 at the Leisure Lodge Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown. The retreat was reportedly designed to deepen bonding and understanding among team members through structured discussions and informal interactions.
Reportedly, the workshop was officially opened by Gladis A. Goba, the Acting Executive Director of PPASL, who expressed her gratitude to the Board of PPASL for the trust placed in her during this transitional period.
“Though the journey has been short, we have achieved tremendous milestones,” she reflected, highlighting the appointment of a new Executive Director and ongoing improvements within the organization.
Ms. Goba welcomed participants from various regions, including Bo, Kenema, Port Loko, Lunsar, and the Western Area, and gave a special introduction to Augustine A.K. Allieu, the incoming Executive Director. She emphasized the importance of the orientation, stating, “This is more than just a training; it’s the beginning of a journey. Every role, no matter how small, contributes to the bigger picture.”
Hassan Fuad Kanu, Honorary President of PPASL, urged staff and volunteers to embrace self-reflection and teamwork in celebration of the Association’s 65th anniversary. He drew from his personal experience, having joined PPASL as a youth in 2007 and worked his way up to various leadership roles.
Kanu described the recent leadership election on the 21st December, 2024, as a significant transformation for the Association, reflecting a focus on institutional knowledge and youthful energy.
“This is not just an NEC affair. The SMT must also be part of the governance conversation,” he remarked as he highlighted the importance of homegrown solutions during the workshop, which was facilitated by local professionals rather than external facilitators.
Kanu concluded his speech by welcoming Augustine Allieu, describing him as an experienced leader in the NGO sector.
Augustine Ambrose Karim Allieu, who has over 15 years of experience in international NGOs across multiple countries, shared his vision for PPASL. “I see PPASL as an organization with huge opportunities, but also some challenges,” Allieu stated.
His goals include rebranding PPASL to enhance its national profile and improving services to attract essential resources.
He emphasized the significance of teamwork, saying, “This is not a one-man job. It will require strong team spirit, shared goals, and collective energy to push the organization forward.” Allieu conveyed his immediate priorities for the upcoming 100 days, focusing on assessing the organization’s current state and identifying quick wins for long-term growth.
The workshop also included the formal signing of the Executive Director’s contract, which reportedly marked a significant step in the transition of leadership within the organization. Sessions were facilitated by key figures familiar with PPASL’s operations, including former Executive Director Davis Williams and former Director of Programs Dr. Victor Massaquoi.
The orientation workshop reportedly exemplified PPASL’s commitment to fostering unity and excellence within its ranks, ensuring that all participants are well-equipped to contribute to the organization’s mission moving forward.