Happy Women’s Month!

March is the time to celebrate the achievements of women worldwide, and throughout this month, we will be shining a spotlight on Sierra Leonean women in media and marketing, arts and entertainment, sports, business and public service, STEM, and healthcare. 

To kick off this celebration, we are being biased and starting with powerhouse Sierra Leonean women in media and marketing who are excelling across the globe. 

These are women Vickie Remoe says: “They are the media mavens, storytellers, strategists and content creatives who amplify our stories and Make Sierra Leone Famous at home and abroad.” 

So get comfortable and join us as we celebrate these 12 incredible women who are shaping the future of marketing and media, one bold move at a time. 

Mankaprr Conteh, Print Journalist

Image from Elle

Mankaprr describes herself as a cultural journalist, and her work speaks for itself. She has covered black artistry and activism for major outlets like ELLE and Pitchfork and now serves as a staff writer at Rolling Stone where she focuses on hip-hop, R&B, and African pop music. 

Passionate about amplifying African and Black music culture, Mankaprr bridges the gap between African and Western audiences, ensuring that African artists get the global recognition they deserve. She proudly embraces her Africanness, using her Rolling Stone column, Made in Africa to spotlight African music and culture. 

“It’s about seeing our worlds, our diaspora, our lives, concerns, and innovations-but centering the people closest to the soil,” she shared in an Instagram post.  

Beyond the continent, her storytelling extends to major Black American artists like 21 Savage, Janelle Monae, Cardi B, and SZA. 

Though born and raised in the US, Mankaprr remains deeply connected to her Sierra Leonean roots, frequently visiting home and encouraging others to do the same. Through her social media, she urges people of African descent to explore their homelands and other historic sites, reconnecting with their ancestry in meaningful ways. 

Phebean Swill, TV Broadcast Journalist

Image from Instagram @phebeanswill

Phebean Swill is a force in Sierra Leone’s media, entertainment, and business landscape. A celebrated broadcast journalist, actress, and entrepreneur, she launched her media career at just 17 and has since become a household name.

Her influence extends beyond the screen. Through her work, she has successfully drawn attention to issues of women and youth empowerment, gender-based violence and civic rights.

Her impact has earned her numerous accolades including National Youth Ambassador, one of the 100 Most Influential Young Sierra Leoneans (2018/19), Forty Under Forty Africa (2024), Best TV Presenter (2023/2024), one of the 100 Most Influential Young Leaders in Africa (2021) and so on. 

Beyond media, Phebean is a social entrepreneur, the CEO 1 of WOW Group Ltd., a conglomerate that spans five different businesses; WOW Estate, WOW Cosmetics, WOW Cinema, WOW Furniture and Decor and WOW Studios, a content creation company specializing in development communication.

She also hosts The Phebe Swill Show on AYV TV, tackling social and entertainment issues with bold and insightful conversations. Through the Phebe Swill Foundation, she mentors young people and helps sex workers transition  into business. As a  Mandela Washington Fellow and Youth Ambassador, she continues to use her platform to inspire and drive change.

“I chose this work having understood the power of influence and how it can contribute to development,” she shared on LinkedIn. 

Mariama Khai Fornah, Radio Broadcast Journalist

Image from AYV News website

Mariama Khai Fornah is a trailblazer in journalism. She made history as the first African female journalist to report on the Charles Taylor trial in The Hague, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. 

With 18 years of experience, she has worked with global organizations like the World Bank and BBC World Service Trust, earning recognition as an award-winning journalist. 

Beyond reporting, Fornah is a visionary leader and CEO of Hands of Hope Radio 100.5 FM, Sierra Leone’s first female-owned radio station. Committed to empowerment, the station addresses critical issues including gender equality, governance, legal rights, civic engagement, culture, and education. 

She has also managed impactful projects like the EU-funded Cocoa Livelihoods Project, which benefitted over 5000 cocoa farmers. As a blogger, entrepreneur, and preacher, she continues to use her platform to drive change helping shape the narrative for the next generation. 

Eastina Boimadi Marian Taylor, Broadcast Journalist

Image from The New School website

Eastina Marian Boimadi Taylor is a seasoned broadcaster, producer, and mentor with over 13 years of experience in the media industry. 

A 2018 Mandela Washington Fellow from Indiana University, Eastina is passionate about youth empowerment. She leads the Shaping Young Minds Initiative, a programme dedicated to equipping young people with leadership skills and growth mindset. She has also served as a Community Engagement Manager for On Our Radar, mentoring reporters across the globe. 

Eastina is a strong advocate for gender equality in the media. As the current President for Women in the Media Sierra Leone, she champions the advancement of female journalists and greater representation in the industry.

Her experience extends to BBC Media Action-Sierra Leone, where she has produced and presented programmes on youth issues and malaria prevention. Since completing her Mandela Washington Fellowship, she has remained committed to applying her expertise to drive change in Sierra Leone’s media and development sector. She inspires the next generation of Sierra Leonean women in media. 

Mabel Kabba, Multimedia Journalist

Image from Liberty TV Website

Mabel Kabba has built a reputation as one of Sierra Leone’s most fearless journalists. Her journey began in Dwarzack, one of Freetown’s most deprived communities, where she longed for a platform to amplify the voices of the unheard. 

In 2013, she joined Radio Democracy as a volunteer reporter. Within a year, she became a full-staff member, quickly rising to Head of News. Today, she is the Managing Partner and Presenter at Liberty TV. 

It was during the 2014 Ebola Outbreak that Mabel’s fearless reporting truly set her apart. At a time when many avoided the frontlines, she entered treatment centers, interviewed patients and medical professionals to ensure the world understood the crisis. 

“We needed the international community to see the devastating effects of Ebola. So we braved the odds,” she said in an interview. 

With an unshakable commitment to press freedom, gender equality, and representation, Mabel has risen amongst the ranks. And she has no intention of stooping anytime soon. 

Magdalene Mabinty Kamara, Editor (Print)

Image from Politico SL

Leading one of Sierra Leone’s major newspapers, Politico Newspaper, Magdalene ensures that critical political and social issues are not only reported but also analysed with depth and accountability. 

In an industry still dominated by men, her presence as a female editor signals a shift, one that paves the ebay for more women in investigative journalism. Magdalene’s journey began in 2015 as an intern at Politico. Through sheer dedication, she rose to the top taking over as editor by the end of 2021. Stepping into the role was no small feat. 

“I had the passion and I was improving daily but was I fully prepared to become an editor at that time? No. But this was a challenge I had to take on,” she shared.

In a country where women make up just 22% of those seen, heard, or read about in news, Magdalene’s leadership is groundbreaking. Despite the obstacles, Magdalene remains committed to truth, accountability, and amplifying underrepresented voices. She stands as a role model for aspiring female journalists proving that while the road may be tough, it is not impossible. 

Sarah Kallay, Content Creator (Entertainment)

Image from Sarah Kallay Blog

Sarah Kallay is a former journalist, presenter,  and producer who made her mark in Sierra Leone’s media industry. As the host of People & Politics and Romantic Tour, she engaged audiences with insightful conversations. Her career saw a rapid rise, culminating in her becoming the youngest Head of Programmes at Star Radio before transitioning from traditional media. 

Aside from broadcasting, Sarah has collaborated with NGOs focused on women’s rights and equal opportunities. Her contributions have earned her recognition from UN Women, Equality Now, BBC Media Action, and BBC World Service.  

Today, Sarah is a leading entertainment blogger and influencer, running the popular Sarah Kallay Blog. With a strong presence on Facebook, she commands attention by covering tending topics and sparking discussions. Her signature catchphrase #GbosGbas has become widely recognised, solidifying her as a key voice in Sierra Leone’s entertainment media landscape.

Nadia Jae, Presenter

Image from the Speakers Agency

Nadia Jae is a British-Sierra Leonean TV presenter, radio DJ, and author known for her engaging and professional style. She has interviewed top global celebrities like Daniel Craig, Idris Elba, and Ed Sheeran while also hosting prestigious events, like the BAFTA TV red carpet and MOBO Awards. 

As a DJ, Nadia has played for major venues and events including the BRITs, Fabric, and Lovebox, and has collaborated with brands like Adidas, ASOS, and Netflix. Her voice has also been featured in campaigns for Visa and she has worked with BBC Three and Subway.

Currently, Nadia hosts the BBC 1Xtra Breakfast Show and ITV2’s Love Island screenings at Boxpark. She recently expanded into writing, releasing a book with the BBC titled Raise Your Voice. Expanding her reach into publishing, she recently released a book titled Raise Your Voice, inspiring young people to embrace confidence. 

With her growing influence in broadcasting, music, and literature, Nadia continues to inspire the next set of Sierra Leonean women in media.  

Nadia Maddy, Writer 

Image from Facebook @Nadia Maddy

Nadia Maddy is a London-based writer and educator of Sierra Leonean descent, renowned for her work on identity, resilience, and cultural heritage. Her acclaimed novel, The Palm Oil Stain, explores the Sierra Leonean Civil War and has gained recognition in academic circles. 

As a senior lecturer and programme lead at Bath Spa University, with over 15 years of teaching experience and an MA in Sociology, she is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of writers. 

A passionate advocate for emerging African storytellers,  Nadia co-founded a national creative writing competition with PEN Sierra Leone in 2014, just days after her father’s funeral. The competition, later named the Yulisa Amadu Maddy Award in his honour, has given young writers a platform to amplify their voices. 

Her efforts in literacy development came full circle in January 2025 when she returned to Freetown to lead a free Creative Writing Masterclass. There, she reconnected with Saffie Koroma, the first award recipient. The moment was a testament to Nadia’s belief in storytelling as a tool for empowerment and entrepreneurship. She continues to shape the next generation of Sierra Leonean women in media and literature. 

Sarran Jabbie Jalloh, Digital Marketer

Image from Instagram @Dinkala

Sarran Jabbie Jalloh is the CEO and founder of BrandKultured, a boutique branding and marketing firm specializing in culture-driven storytelling. With a deep passion for amplifying African businesses and bridging cultural narratives, she has built a career that merges marketing expertise with African representation.

Born and raised in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Sarran’s identity is deeply rooted in her Sierra Leonean heritage. Her father, an immigrant who arrived in the US with a student visa, later sent for her mother. This laid the foundation for a life enriched by both African and African-American influences. 

Sarran studied political science at William Paterson University and pursued a Business Foundation certification from The Wharton School. Beyond entrepreneurship, she is a dedicated philanthropist having worked with organizations like EduShare and Africa Responds, which mobilized the African diaspora during the Ebola outbreak. 

Her love for storytelling extends beyond her business. On her instagram platform, Dinkala, she curates content that connects Africans, Carribbeans, and African-Americans through shared culture and experiences. A trailblazer in cultural branding, she remains committed to helping African businesses compete on the global stage one story at a time. 

Carmena Ayo Davies, Marketing and PR

Image from Instagram @Carmenakisses

Carmena Ayo Davies is a Freetown-born entrepreneur and celebrity publicist based in the US. She has a passion for amplifying black brands and businesses thus leading her to open 3BG Marketing Solutions, a boutique firm specializing in PR, event activation, and marketing. As CEO, she helps clients gain visibility on local, regional, and national platforms. 

Despite not having a normal PR background, Carmena built her career from ground up leveraging strategic networking and a deep understanding of black storytelling. She is a strong advocate for diversity in PR, emphasizing the need for black professionals to control their narratives and gain industry recognition. 

Since launching 3BG Marketing Solutions in 2007, Carmena has worked with high profile clients including NFL and NBA athletes, luxury brands, and entertainment figures. Her work has been featured on CNN, FOS, NBC, Essence, Black Enterprise, and Peoples Magazine, among others. She was also featured on CNN for the 2008 Obama-Clinton primaries as a young business owner under 30.

In 2020, she launched her book, “Publicity on a Budget,” which serves as a guide for small businesses and aspiring publicists looking to build their brands affordably. 

With over a decade of experience in Marketing and Publicity, Carmena continues to inspire Sierra Leonean women in media as she continues to help black businesses prosper on the global scale. 

Hawanatu Konneh, Content Creator (Entertainment)

Image from Facebook @Hawanatu Konneh

Hawanatu Konneh is a leading  entertainment and lifestyle influencer known for her engaging online presence and ability to spark viral conversations on Facebook. With a Master’s in Journalism and Media Studies, she brings both credibility and strategic insight to digital marketing in Sierra Leone. 

As a trusted digital marketer, she has worked with multiple brands and served as brand ambassador for Activa International Insurance Company and Daboh’s Investment Wood Factory. 

Her influence extends beyond content creation. She shapes trends, drives brand engagement, and connects businesses with audiences in a meaningful way.