The Patriotic Advocacy Network (PAN) has officially launched the 2026 edition of its flagship Leadership and Public Speaking Masterclass (LPMC).
The 12-day intensive training commenced on Tuesday, 1st September, 2026, at the FSSG Hall in Freetown, bringing together 150 shortlisted participants selected from a competitive pool of over 400 applicants.
Designed to empower young people, emerging entrepreneurs, and aspiring community leaders, LPMC serves as a transformative platform aimed at bridging critical gaps in leadership, effective communication, and national development
Delivering the opening address, the Convener and Team Lead of PAN, Ansumana Keita highlighted the fundamental vision behind the masterclass, emphasising the urgent need for ethical leaders who can drive positive change across Sierra Leone.
Encouraging the cohort to remain steadfast, focused, and disciplined throughout the 12 days of intensive training, Keita quoted Dr Martin Luther King Jr., reminding participants to keep moving forward regardless of the circumstances. He also expressed sincere appreciation to the PAN Board of Directors, partnering institutions, and dedicated volunteers for making the initiative possible.
The 2026 curriculum covers more than 20 practical modules tailored to modern leadership challenges.
Key topics include the foundations of effective leadership, public speaking fundamentals, self-discipline, financial management and independence, financial compliance, emotional intelligence, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence, to name but a few.
The first day of the masterclass featured sessions led by six prominent facilitators from diverse professional fields.
Dr Ibrahim Alusine Kebe opened the academic track by examining John Maxwell’s Five Levels of Leadership, stressing that true leadership relies on positive influence and developing new leaders rather than relying on titles.
Iris Aminata Bangura followed with a module on Fundamentals of Public Speaking and structuring impactful messages using the PREP framework
Cecilia Alice Sesay introduced a 7-Day Speaking Challenge focused on cutting filler words and mastering conversational timing.
Daniel Sawaneh, Esq. addressed strategic thinking and visionary leadership, while Mr Sheku Putka Kamara detailed systematic problem-solving through the R.A.C.E. framework.
Concluding the opening day, Abubakarr Fomba Swaray Esq led an interactive, hands-on workshop utilising his CRAFT framework to guide participants through persuasive speechwriting and pitching real-world solutions.
Over 20 facilitators are scheduled to conduct interactive sessions throughout the remainder of the two-week program.
Following its opening sessions in Freetown, the training will run through 12th September, culminating in a grand graduation ceremony scheduled to take place at the Bank Complex in Kingtom.
