Orange Sierra Leone’s OSVP 2023 Awards:

Catalyzing Innovation and Gender Equality

Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to fostering innovation and gender equality reached new heights with the successful conclusion of the 5th edition of the Orange Social Venture Prizes (OSVP) Pitch. Amid an atmosphere of anticipation, two outstanding contestants emerged victorious, with Hawanatu Turay claiming the Nle 50,000 prize for her groundbreaking project “Queenteck,” and James Samba securing the coveted Nle 100,000 prize for OSVP 2023.

Reflecting on the journey, Mabel, one of the event’s organizers, underscored the transformative impact the OSVP has had over the past five years. She highlighted how the initiative not only fuels innovation for Orange Sierra Leone’s customers but also provides an invaluable platform for youth to exhibit their talents. “Today, we once again etched history by propelling someone forward in the realm of innovation,” she stated.

Mr. Kamal Abass, addressing the gathering on the pitch night, expressed his warm welcome and emphasized the monumental nature of the Orange Social Venture Prizes. He noted that this marked the 5th edition of the initiative, a part of the broader 13th edition spanning the Middle East and Africa. He reaffirmed Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to technological progress and nurturing young innovators and start-ups, all while championing the cause of gender equality.

CEO of Orange Sierra Leone, Mr. Shekou Amadou Bah, articulated the evolution of OSVP, tracing its origins back to 2019, with the mission of providing a platform for budding innovators to showcase their talents. He stressed the company’s dual role in not only empowering the local talent pool but also contributing to the digital transformation of Africa and the Middle East. Furthermore, he emphasized the initiative’s dedication to uplifting women in the realm of digital technology.

Dr. Haja Wurie, in her insightful commentary, highlighted the profound potential of OSVP to drive transformative change in Education, Health, Agriculture, E-commerce, and women’s living conditions. Acknowledging the dynamic nature of technological progress, she celebrated the role of innovation in empowering women and fostering sustainable development. She underscored the symbiotic relationship between education and innovation, emphasizing the need to nurture young minds and unlock their potential through innovative E-learning platforms.

The Minister of Communication Technology and Innovation, Ms Haja Salimatu Bah, added her voice to the chorus of optimism. She affirmed that the Orange Social Venture Prizes project holds the promise of improving the lives of young learners, particularly women, in Sierra Leone. The initiative aligns seamlessly with the country’s aspirations for a digitally empowered future.

In the wake of OSVP 2023’s success, Orange Sierra Leone has once again proved its dedication to fostering innovation and creating pathways to equal opportunities. As the event drew to a close, the prevailing sentiment was one of hope and determination, reflecting the collective commitment to ushering in a new era of progress in Sierra Leone and beyond.