September 2, 2023, Arundel Live Casino Ballroom, 7002 Arundel Mills Cir Handover, MD 21076
Opening courtesies…
Ladies and gentlemen,
Welcome to the AWOL Annual Achievement Awards in America. Today, we gather to celebrate extraordinary individuals who have made a lasting impact, uplifted our communities, and inspired progress. As the Global Chairman of AWOL, I am honored to be here in the United States of America, in the beautiful state of Maryland, to celebrate those who excel and make a difference.
I always look forward to this event, but this one is particularly special. We have attendees from all walks of life, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to AWOL America, its executive team, and members, for their unwavering dedication in keeping the AWOL flame burning. Your efforts are greatly appreciated, and together, we are “Putting Salone Fos”
Allow me to extend a warm welcome and special tribute to our esteemed guests and performers this evening, including our special guest and dear friend, one of the comedian from the Republic of Sierra Leone, Richie of Obama. Welcome to the AWOL family.
AWOL, which stands for “All Works of Life,” is now a global development organization committed to educational objectives that contribute to society. We engage in various initiatives, including cultural entertainment programs, accessible healthcare, education, sustainable development, and internationally coordinated efforts aimed at poverty alleviation and sustainable development.
The AWOL brand is truly unique and inspiring. It not only brings Sierra Leoneans together in unity but also provides us with a remarkable opportunity to give back to our beloved country. AWOL helps build the next generation of role models and inspires positive mindsets and change.
Since its official launch in 2001 by the late revered President Dr. Ahmed Tejan Kabbah, AWOL has demonstrated remarkable resilience and longevity. It has the potential not only to endure indefinitely but also to drive the change and transformation our nation so desperately needs.
One of our most significant success stories is the establishment of AWOL Chapters in the Diaspora: here in the USA, in the UK, in Europe, in Australia, and now Africa, as The Gambia is working towards its own AWOL Chapter.
As we often emphasize, AWOL does not belong to a select few; it belongs to all Sierra Leoneans. We are merely custodians for the present moment. One day, others will take the baton and carry forward the noble work and ideals of AWOL, achieving even greater things. We take immense pride in having established such an institution for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans.
Back in Sierra Leone, the AWOL parent body faced some challenges since our last organization of the prestigious and popular National Achievement Awards in 2019. However, challenges are meant to be overcome and to make us stronger. Therefore, we are pleased to announce the return of the National Achievement Awards later this year, in December. These awards are an annual event that recognizes the contributions of diverse individuals and communities making a difference. They also aim to promote excellence, hard work, and diligence in both public and private service.
We’ve also marked our comeback with the feeding of homeless children in the Northern District headquarters town of Makeni, in commemoration of the Day of the African Child on June 16th, 2023. AWOL remains committed to complementing the efforts of the Government of Sierra Leone and the people of Sierra Leone in nation-building.
It’s essential to remember that despite our differences, Sierra Leone remains one of the most peaceful nations on earth. Our experience of conflict has not deterred us from working together. In our differences, we find a common purpose to develop our beloved Sierra Leone. This unity is a remarkable gift to our nation.
Tonight is a night of celebration, and we are proud to be a part of this historic event. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the nominees and eventual winners.
I urge each one of you to savor this remarkable evening. Let’s celebrate excellence and inspire others to rise and shine.
Thank you, everyone, and may God bless us all.
Amb. Anthony Navo Jnr
AWOL Global Chairman
