familieswithoutborders

A Decade of Impact

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:54:43 GMT

Reflections from the Families Without Borders 10th Anniversary Reunion

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending the 10th Anniversary Reunion of Families Without Borders in Freetown. It was more than just a gathering. It was a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come, the lives that have been touched, and the deep connections that continue to bind us together as a family.

Walking into the reunion felt like stepping into a space filled with shared history and purpose. Alumni from different years came together, each carrying their own stories, experiences, and growth journeys. There was a genuine sense of belonging in the air, something that only time, shared values, and collective impact can build.

One of the most meaningful parts of the reunion was reconnecting with people I hadn’t seen in nearly five years. Time had changed us in many ways, but the bond remained strong. Conversations picked up as if no time had passed, filled with laughter, reflection, and gratitude. Those moments reminded me that the relationships built through Families Without Borders go beyond programs or timelines. They last.

As we shared memories and listened to each other’s journeys, it became clear that the organization’s impact extends far beyond its immediate work. It has shaped mindsets, inspired purpose, and created a network of individuals committed to

making a difference in their communities.

My biggest takeaway from the reunion is simple but powerful: there is real joy in serving others and teamwork get the work done. Being at the service of humanity is not just an idea, it’s a way of life. It’s in the small acts, the consistent efforts, and the willingness to show up for others that true fulfillment is found.

Celebrating ten years of Families Without Borders is not just about looking back. It’s about renewing a shared commitment to keep going, to keep serving, and to keep building a future where more lives are impacted for the better.

Here’s to the journey so far, and to many more years of meaningful impact.

About the Author

Alpha M. Sesay

International Day of Education 2026

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 19:13:38 GMT

Learning Climate Justice with Pupils in Makeni

On January 24, 2026, I visited Kankaylay Islamic Junior Secondary School in Makeni with other Emerging Leaders from Families Without Borders to mark the International Day of Education. From the moment we arrived, the pupils’ energy stood out. They were curious, attentive, and clearly excited that people had come to talk with them, not just talk at them.

We discussed climate justice and waste management. What surprised me most was how quickly the pupils connected these topics to their own lives. Some talked about trash around their homes and schools. Others asked questions about flooding and heat, and why these problems seem to affect their communities more. The conversation felt open and honest, and it was clear they wanted practical answers, not big theories.

One moment that stayed with me was when a pupil said they had never realized that simple actions, like proper waste disposal, could protect their health and the environment. That small shift in understanding made the discussion feel meaningful. It wasn’t about teaching facts but about helping them see their role in the bigger picture.

What made the day special was the level of engagement. The pupils were not shy. They shared ideas, challenged points, and listened closely. It reminded me that young people are ready to take responsibility when given the space and respect to do so.

Leaving the school, I felt encouraged. Spending time with the pupils and seeing their interest in climate justice reinforced why this work matters. Education, in moments like this, becomes more than lessons in a classroom. It becomes a shared experience that can shape how young people think and act in their communities.

About the Author

Joseph Yokah

Coming Together to Connect Share and Grow

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 22:05:57 GMT

2025 Alumni Led Retreat

When I arrived at Retreat, I thought I was simply taking a break from campus life. I expected a little fun, a change of scenery, maybe some time for personal reflection. What I experienced, however, was so much more. It was a moment that made me pause and truly see my journey, my opportunities, and my responsibilities in a completely new way.

From the very first day, there was a sense of magic in the air. Sitting around with fellow students from other universities, reconnecting with alumni whose journeys I have admired for years, and being guided by FWB fellows who have always inspired me, it felt like stepping into a space where growth was inevitable. Every laugh, every shared story, and every simple act of teamwork reminded me that I am part of something bigger than myself.

That first night, as we shared stories, laughed, and even playfully mimicked one another, I realized something profound: “leadership and growth are not built in isolation”. They are nurtured when people come together, share their experiences, and support each other. Watching alumni and fellows step forward to share their journeys, their lessons, and their wisdom was inspiring. They were not just teaching; they were showing us what is possible when dedication, humility, and courage guide your path.

Some of the most powerful lessons didn’t come from speeches or lectures. They came from being present, listening, reflecting, and witnessing the impact of community. Conversations, guidance from alumni, and shared laughter reminded me that every opportunity I have is connected to the people around me. That connection is what shapes us, challenges us, and inspires us to grow.

Moments like fun nights, singing together the Family Song, dancing, and storytelling were not just entertainment. They were a reminder that unity, joy, and care are at the heart of growth. And visiting the ISATO Orphanage brought a deep emotional clarity, a reminder that empathy and service are central to everything we do. The lives we touch, no matter how small the gesture, matter profoundly. This makes me believe that “We can make a change and we can change the world.”

As the retreat drew to a close, I felt renewed. I felt stronger. I felt inspired. I realized that the alumni, fellows, and students around me were not just sharing knowledge. They were sharing pieces of themselves, their journeys, and their experiences. They reminded me that I am never alone and that my growth is deeply connected to the people I learn from and serve.

This retreat was more than an event. It was a living example of coming together to connect, share, and grow. It helps me realize that growth is not a solo journey. It happens when hearts and minds come together, when experiences are shared, and when we lift each other higher. I am deeply grateful to be part of Families Without Borders, and I carry the lessons I learned with me during the retreat into every step of my future.

About The Author

A Good Day to Remember: My Experience Celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 19:54:24 GMT

A Good Day to Remember:

My Experience Celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child

On October 11th, 2025, I experienced something that deeply touched my heart. Together with my colleagues from Families Without Borders Alumni and W.M.I Scholars, visited Baptist Junior Secondary School in Makeni to celebrate the

International Day of the Girl Child.

I’ve attended many community service projects before, but this one was different. It felt personal, maybe because it reminded me of my own journey as a young girl growing up in a society where conversations about menstrual health were often whispered, hidden, or completely ignored. Being there, helping to change that narrative, filled me with purpose and pride.

The theme for the day was centered on menstrual health awareness and breaking the stigma that surrounds it. We wanted every child, both girls and boys, to understand that menstruation is not a taboo, but a natural part of life. To create a safe and comfortable space, we organized separate discussions for boys and girls. The boys were guided by our male volunteers, who did an incredible job engaging them in open conversations about understanding menstruation and showing respect towards girls. The boys were divided into groups discussing and taking them through fun quizzes. I was so impressed by their openness and curiosity. It was inspiring to see young boys learning empathy, something that will shape the kind of men they become in the future.

Meanwhile, I joined the girls’ group, and that session was both practical and powerful. We talked about menstrual hygiene management, pregnancy prevention, and the importance of self-care. Then came the most exciting part, teaching them

how to make reusable sanitary pads using simple, locally available materials. The moment the girls held the pads they had made with their own hands, I saw joy and confidence on their faces. For some of them, it was the first time learning that they could manage their periods safely, affordably, and with dignity. In that moment, I felt tears in my eyes, not of sadness, but of hope. Hope that these girls will grow up knowing that their bodies are not something to be ashamed of, but something to be respected and celebrated.

As the event ended, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment. We didn’t just teach menstrual health, we planted seeds of confidence, knowledge, and change. The conversations that started in those classrooms will continue long after we’ve left, shaping how these students view themselves and others. For me, that’s what empowerment truly means, not just giving information, but awakening strength and understanding within people. Looking back, that day reminded me why I chose to serve by volunteering with Families Without Borders as an Alumni of the organization. It reminded me that

change begins with compassion and conversation, and that when girls and boys learn to understand and respect each other, we are one step closer to building a more equal world.

That day at Baptist Junior Secondary School wasn’t just a project. It was a movement of hearts, a reminder that every voice matters, and every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and be heard.

About the Author

Fatmata Tarawallie

A JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE

Thu, 01 May 2025 18:19:56 GMT

2025 Graduate Abu Bakarr Conteh Shares His Story

My journey began in the aftermath of the Civil War in Sierra Leone. The scars of conflict left many families, including mine, struggling to make ends meet. My father faced immense challenges in sending my elder brother, sister, and me to school. Education was a luxury we could hardly afford, but my father, driven by a deep passion for learning, never gave up on us.

After school, my siblings and I had to walk seven to eight miles to Kunsho village and nearby areas to buy firewood. This was a tiring process of collecting, transporting, and selling firewood in Makeni. My father would split the firewood before handing it over to us to sell. This routine continued until I reached Junior Secondary School (JSS 3), at which point my elder siblings could no longer continue their education. Despite this setback, my father remained passionate about education, encouraging me to strive for a better future. He believed I was capable of doing something out of the ordinary.

After completing secondary school, I faced another challenge: My father fell ill, and with no financial support for higher studies, I decided to be a community teacher to provide for my family. I worked in various schools for eight years, i.e., Oxford International Academy, Mabanta School of Science and Technology, United Methodist Secondary School, and some syndicate classes. For the meager pay of Nle 70 ($3.50) to Nle 80 ($4.00) per month, I worked for my students, hoping that one day I would witness them accomplishing something. It was hurtful to watch my students graduate with first-class honors from university and still be a community teacher. But, amidst tears, I never lost hope that one day my tribulations would bear fruit and that I would find my path.

In 2020, I joined Families Without Borders and received a scholarship for one year of community service as a probationary period. This experience reignited my dreams of university education. That same year, I endured great personal tragedy; I lost my father, and my elder brother. Their death left my family in despair, and my mother was grieving, from which she has not yet recovered. Despite all these, I prayed and remained dedicated to my dream. With the help of Allah, I sought means of advancing my studies further. I would like to thank Families Without Borders, Ishmael Bundu (Pele) and Kadiatu Kanu for believing in me during this test. They were a source of hope to me. I remained resolute in seeking an internship that would provide me with valuable experience. In my second year of study in 2022, I experienced my first internship with the Makeni City Council. It was a life-altering experience; it paved the way for my future. I later interned at Women's Actions for Human Dignity (WAHD) on a project titled ”Enhancing CSOs Participation in Governance and National Level Policy Processes in Sierra Leone.” This internship, which lasted fifteen months, reaffirmed my belief in the importance of civic engagement.

In addition to my internships, I also volunteered at Grace Organic Egg Poultry Farm for three months during the latter half of 2024. The CEO of the farm recognized my strong work ethic and commitment and extended a full-time offer to me. This was a life-altering experience, ensuring my place in the labor force.

Today, I am privileged to declare that I have graduated with a First-Class BSc Honors in Accounting and Finance from the University of Makeni, the first person in my line of family to achieve such a distinction. My academic journey was not merely about personal achievement; it was also about breaking down barriers for generations to come. During my university life, I was honored to serve as the president of the Accounting and Finance Society. I organized the first Accounting Week Celebration to mark World Accountant Day. The event brought together students and professionals to celebrate our profession and network.

As I slipped on my graduation gown, I felt a burst of emotions wash over me. That gown symbolized not just my academic success but the culmination of years of struggle, patience, and determination. The smile that spread across my face was a smile of victory, a testament that I had braved the obstacles ahead of me. My experience serves as a reminder to anyone who finds himself in a test: never forget your dreams, no matter what. Embrace challenges as opportunities to strengthen yourself, and never lose sight of your goals. As I proceed, I hope that this graduation opens the doors to future degrees and joyful celebrations in my life.

Finally, I encourage you to maintain the faith and pursue your dreams with unyielding passion. Circumstances never work out exactly as you think they will, but through resolve and a believing heart in some higher power, anything can happen.

About the Author

Abu Bakarr Conteh

Celebrating the International Day of Education: Impactful Initiatives by Families Without Borders

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 17:14:47 GMT

FWB Alumni & Students Celebrated the International Day of Education Across Sierra Leone

Education is a powerful tool for change, and the International Day of Education 2024 provided an opportunity to highlight its importance through various student-led initiatives. This year, Families Without Borders (FWB) students from different universities UNIMAK, Njala, and Central University in Mile 91 as well as our Fellows and Alumni in Makeni and

Freetown came together to implement impactful projects aimed at empowering young learners, fostering creativity, and bridging the digital divide.

Empowering Students Through Peer Tutoring

Design and Creativity for a Brighter Future

Building Public Speaking, Debating and Poetry Skills

Bringing Tech Education to Orphans in Freetown

Introducing Digital Skills to Students in Makeni

The International Day of Education 2025 showcased Families Without Borders’ commitment to education, skill development, and community empowerment. Through peer tutoring, creative design workshops, public speaking training, technology education, and career mentorship, FWB students, Fellows, and Alumni made a lasting impact on the lives of young learners.

As we reflect on these efforts, we are reminded that education is more than a right—it is a gateway to a brighter future. Through continued collaboration and innovation, FWB remains committed to ensuring that every student has access to the resources, mentorship, and knowledge needed to thrive.

A bout the Author

Sahr Samuel Sam Ngaujah

FWB Students: A Week of Service and Impact at Mile 91 Hospital

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 18:29:52 GMT

FWB Students Volunteer at Central Hospital in Mile 91

From December 26, 2024 to January 3, 2025, ten students from Families Without Borders (FWB) embarked on a remarkable journey to the Community Health Foundation Hospital in Mile 91. Our mission was to provide support in various capacities, including cleaning, administrative assistance, and patient care. What followed was a week of profound learning, teamwork, and impact.

Upon arrival, the hospital staff warmly welcomed us and introduced us to their initiatives aimed at improving community health. Our first task was solar panel cleaning. The hospital’s solar panels had accumulated dirt, resulting in a reduced energy supply. Armed with determination, we washed and wiped them clean,

restoring their efficiency.

On the second day, we faced a critical moment when a patient in urgent need of surgery had to be carried to the operating room. He was suffering from a severe hernia that required immediate attention. After his successful operation, he expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “Thank you, my children. Without you, I might

not have survived.”

Throughout the week, we assisted in various departments, helping nurses organize supplies and ensuring smooth operations. The hospital's CEO, Linda Muckson Sesay, praised our efforts, saying, “The contributions of Families Without Borders have shown how impactful volunteerism can be for our community.”

This experience left us with cherished memories and a strengthened resolve to serve. It reminded us that even small acts of service can make a significant difference. Our time at Mile 91 was a testament to the power of community, teamwork, and the enduring spirit of Families Without Borders.

About the Author

Joseph Yokah

Strengthening Bonds for a Visionary Future: Reflections on the 2024 FWB Internal Retreat at Bumban Village.

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 19:34:47 GMT

2024 Alumni Led Retreat

In a stride to build ever-ending bonds for a prospective tomorrow, on December 20—22, 2024, FWB hosted an internal retreat that was organized by the Alumni, at Bumban Village, a friendly environment filled with amazing people.

The internal retreat has always been a spot where Alumni play their undeniable role in building up, capacity, and powering students with essential tools to be used in the competitive corporate world.

This year's retreat started with a pleasing welcome from the community people. During this family cooking, alumni and students were involved, and it was something much to hold dear. The first day ended with a unique bonfire where attendees were able to share thoughtful and inspiring stories and sing memorial songs that echo our traditional values as Africans. Zainab Sesay, year 3 University of Makeni, affirmed that " this session was indeed worthy and enjoyable, it made us reflect on our culture as Africans because these are some of the activities our then people were doing."

Notwithstanding, day 2 started with a terrific session where the board president presented our core values, family house rules, and leadership. Musa Mansaray, year 1 Central University, stated "These values keep us going and make us visionary individuals in our community and beyond. Adding these rules, it's an added advantage to us because these rules will add more weight to our daily dealings and shape us to live a decent life."

Moving forward, the sharing of success stories, was a session that was chaired by alumni Bashir Korma and Joseph Elie. This session was truly and indeed interactive. Students were able to listen to the real-life challenges in the course of chasing and upholding the tent of success. Bashir was able to leave this conclusion statement with the students and attendees by saying, "Devoid of the challenges I faced through, I may not be where I planned to be, but I am not where I was, and thanks to FWB a place that has a special spot in my heart."

Joseph Elie also ended his statement with, "they will not call you to the high table, but you must take your chair to the high table by yourself and ask them to squeeze for you. We are all equal at FWB, what we are doing for the family (FWB) makes us different."

The retreat ended with an invaluable session which was the international opportunities, hosted by alumni Francis Sesay, and Kadie Sankoh. This session was able to pull the students from their comfort zone and ready to make use of the internet and track down multiple International opportunities like, International conferences, summits, grants, and many other opportunities. James Tullah, year 3 University of Makeni, was able to extend his thanks to the hosts and confirm his readiness to make 2025 an engaging year and his willingness to explore those international opportunities.

Conclusively, this year's retreat was indeed impactful and resourceful, sparking and waking attendees to make 2025 a year with a lot of success for the entire family (FWB).

About the Author

James Simbo

Bridging the Digital Divide: FWB's "Tech Day With Orphans" Inspires a New Generation at Ann BB Memorial Academy

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 19:13:39 GMT

A Tech Day With Orphans

As technology reaches the walls of Africa and Sierra Leone to be specific, on the 16th of November, 2024, FWB implemented a very impactful "Teach Day With The Orphans" project. At one of the orphanage schools in the northern part of Sierra Leone, Ann BB Memorial Academy is a school that is always ready to give quality education to orphans.

FWB alumni and students were able to bring to light and expose 50 students to the tech world with invaluable skills that surround the environment of technology. Students present were able to learn for the first time the basic skills of computers, simple coding practices, and innovative design tutorials.

The children were so filled with eagerness and hunger to learn and make use of the undeniable opportunity presented to them.

Alie, a 17-year-old student serving as the Head Boy for the School, was able to affirm that "this is my first time to be exposed in the world of tech and know how significant it is. Being in this village where we are not opportune to opportunities like this, we often find it very difficult to match with other learners. Devoid of our condition, we still believe that we have something to give that society will not deny. I am happy for the exposure brought by FWB, this means a lot to us and the community. With what we have learned, we have left with a renewed mindset filled with eagerness to make robust use of the knowledge gained. This opportunity has awakened our minds to have a foot in the tech world."

The FWB students and alumni played a crucial role in creating an interactive learning environment for the orphans. Abdulai, a fellow, stated that "it was very pleasing to see the readiness of the kids in learning new things. Their sense of adapting to new knowledge is top-notch. I can't believe how they were participating and asking questions that deepen each topic. This opportunity has brought them an everlasting enthusiasm and more longing for the technology world."

This opportunity spotlights FWB's mission to bridge the digital divide and empower future leaders in our communities.

About The Author

James Thullah

Service Day at Orphanage

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 03:15:58 GMT

Service Day at Ihsan Orphanage

Games and dancing, a shared meal, and some much-needed upkeep and repairs brightened New Year’s Day 2021 during a Families Without Borders service project at Ihsan Life Supporting Orphanage at Mile 91, Peace Village.

Families Without Borders Executive Director Terri Khonsari and over 70 Emerging Students and Fellows spent New Year’s Day at the orphanage, which is home to about 45 children ages 8 - 17.

While there, the group found time not only to enjoy celebrating the new year, but to perform some much-needed rehabilitation work. The FWB volunteers repaired the orphanage well, which had been abandoned for many years; installed a solar-powered light in the girls’ quarters; and painted the exterior of the building. Children from the orphanage helped with the painting, especially by adding whimsical pictures of plants and animals to the freshly painted walls.

“It was fun and helped the children feel ownership,” FWB Emerging Leader Tryphina Cocker explained. “Especially when you draw something which you will always see.” The service project was a part of FWB’s annual retreat, which was taking place at the nearby Canadian College of Modern Technology.

It was a work day, but also a day filled with laughter, a reflection of the FWB mission. “We believe in service and sharing love to make sure the world is a better place,” said Tryphina. Tryphina is a senior year student in Mass Communications at the University of Makeni and is also the Head of News and Current Affairs at Global Multimedia Online TV in Sierra Leone. Enjoy the video below that Tryphina created!

COVID Project With Moms Against Poverty

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 21:43:26 GMT

COVID Project with Moms Against Poverty

8th Annual Gala

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 17:09:59 GMT

Save the date for May 2 in Walnut Creek, CA. Can't wait to share all of the juicy details with you.

familieswithoutborders

A Decade of Impact

International Day of Education 2026

Coming Together to Connect Share and Grow

2025 Alumni Led Retreat

A Good Day to Remember: My Experience Celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child

A Good Day to Remember:

My Experience Celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child ﻿

A JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE

2025 Graduate Abu Bakarr Conteh Shares His Story

Celebrating the International Day of Education: Impactful Initiatives by Families Without Borders

FWB Alumni & Students Celebrated the International Day of Education Across Sierra Leone

FWB Students: A Week of Service and Impact at Mile 91 Hospital

FWB Students Volunteer at Central Hospital in Mile 91

Strengthening Bonds for a Visionary Future: Reflections on the 2024 FWB Internal Retreat at Bumban Village.

2024 Alumni Led Retreat

Bridging the Digital Divide: FWB's "Tech Day With Orphans" Inspires a New Generation at Ann BB Memorial Academy

A Tech Day With Orphans

Service Day at Orphanage

Service Day at Ihsan Orphanage

COVID Project With Moms Against Poverty

COVID Project with Moms Against Poverty

8th Annual Gala

My Experience Celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child