Tonkolili, Sierra Leone – 24th January 2026
In strong alignment with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs’ Year of Culture and Creativity 2026, and reflecting Minister Nabeela Tunis drive to deepen collaboration with the private sector, Leone Rock Metal Group successfully hosted the third edition of its Annual Talent Show and Award Night 2026 at its Main Site in Tonkolili. The event reaffirmed the company’s commitment to community empowerment through culture and the creative industries.
The vibrant showcase provided a dynamic platform for creativity, cultural expression, and local talent drawn from Leone Rock’s host communities. Performers delivered captivating displays across multiple artistic categories, including chorus, group dance, drama, cultural performances, magic, and music, transforming the evening into a celebration of artistic excellence and shared identity.
Representing the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Tunis, the Director of Culture, Creativity and Innovation, Foday Jalloh, served as Chief Judge, supported by technical staff from the Ministry. His participation underscored the Ministry’s collaborative approach with the private sector in advancing Sierra Leone’s tourism, culture, and creative economy agenda, in line with Minister Nabeela Tunis’ vision of leveraging partnerships to drive sustainable sector growth.
In his remarks, Director Jalloh, on behalf of Minister Tunis commended Leone Rock Metal Group for the consistency of the initiative and for intentionally creating space to identify, nurture, and celebrate creative talents within the company and its surrounding communities. He emphasized the importance of such platforms in supporting the objectives of the Year of Culture and Creativity 2026, including strengthening cultural identity, stimulating the creative economy, and opening pathways for talent development and national recognition. He further assured participants that outstanding performers would be identified and supported by the Ministry going forward.
The competition featured three participating groups, KMC, KRP, and HQ, who competed across the various categories. At the conclusion of the contest, KMC emerged as the overall winner, with KRP taking second place and HQ finishing third, following impressive displays of teamwork, originality, and artistic skill.
This year’s edition once again demonstrated the value of government, private sector collaboration in promoting cultural pride, empowering communities, and positioning creativity as a catalyst for social and economic development.
As the spotlight shone on talent and excellence, one message resonated throughout the night:
Culture lives here. Creativity takes the spotlight. Excellence is rewarded.
MTCA Communications
