Salone Youth Konnect opened doors I never knew existed. I met mentors who guided my career path and connected me with opportunities in the tech sector.
AYN Flagship Networking Forum
Salone Youth Konnect 2025
The Evening in Review
Held 26 · 07 · 2025
On July 26th, 2025, AYN hosted its flagship networking forum — convening over 180 youth leaders from across Sierra Leone, representing advocacy, journalism, technology, law, agriculture, health, education, and entrepreneurship. The evening created meaningful connections, fostered collaboration, and laid the groundwork for future partnerships among the nation's emerging leaders.
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Participants
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Districts Represented
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Media Mentions
In Frames
One evening, hundreds of connections
Music, games, open mic, and conversations that carried on long after the last photo was taken.
Photography by JO3's Format — African Youth Network [AYN], Salone Youth Konnect 2025.
Success Stories
What participants took home
Real outcomes from youth who participated in Salone Youth Konnect 2025.
The networking game was transformative. I formed partnerships that led to collaborative community projects in my district. AYN truly empowers youth.
As a young entrepreneur, the connections I made at SYK2025 helped me secure funding and expand my agribusiness to three new communities.
The Program
How the evening unfolded
A detailed look at each moment that made Salone Youth Konnect 2025 memorable.
4:00 – 4:30 PM
Arrival & Chill Time
The event opened with a warm and vibrant atmosphere, accompanied by light music to set the tone. Connection cards with prompts such as “Find someone who…” or “Talk to someone wearing the same color” broke the ice and encouraged organic conversation.
4:30 – 5:00 PM
Open Mic: Music, Poetry & Freestyle
Participants took to the mic to share talents in music, poetry, rap, and spoken word. With no formal list or stage, the open mic created a free-flowing space for creativity, expression, and fun — cheers, applause, and support from peers reinforcing the inclusive spirit of the event.
5:00 – 5:45 PM
Freestyle Networking Game
Youth leaders engaged in dynamic networking circles where prompt questions such as “What are you passionate about?” and “What change do you want to see in Sierra Leone?” sparked deeper conversations and meaningful exchanges.
5:45 – 6:10 PM
Creative Station: The Dream Wall
Every participant wrote their dreams, goals, or messages to Sierra Leone on colorful sticky notes, displayed on a large board — a powerful visual of collective aspirations and a lasting reminder of the shared vision for progress.
6:10 – 6:30 PM
Youth Challenge: Mystery Box & Fun Games
Teams and pairs competed in lighthearted challenges — dance-offs, finish-the-lyric, and guessing games. The inclusion of the Minister and other guests added excitement and broke down barriers between leaders and youth.
6:30 – 7:00 PM
Closing Session: Final Vibes & Group Photo
The program concluded with shout-outs, expressions of gratitude, and a lively group photo session. Participants exchanged contacts, shared final reflections, and ended the evening in a spirit of celebration — dancing, networking, and affirming the day's success.
What Comes Next
The connections continue at NVS 2026
Salone Youth Konnect was the spark. The National Volunteer Summit 2026 is the movement — 500 delegates, 100+ volunteer placements, and the launch of the National Volunteer Hub.
Explore NVS 2026