The leading telecommunications network in Sierra Leone, Orange-SL, has on Friday 4th August 2023, awarded two Young Sierra Leonean Innovators as the winners of the Orange Social Venture Prize for 2023. The event took place the the Limkokwing University in Freetown.
James Samba of Sierra Electric won the National Grand Prize of Nle. 100,000 (100 million), whilst Hawanatu Sesay of Digital Islam bagged the Orange ‘Tech Queen’ awarded of Nle. 50,000 (50 million). They both clinched the 1st places in the two separate categories.
The CEO of Orange-SL Sekou Amadou Bah, in his addressed to the audience, finalists, as well as local and international judges, acknowledged the innovative skills displayed by all finalists and participants. He went on to say that this is the 5th edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize – and as the OSVP was launched over 12 years ago, Orange has positioned itself as the leading digital partner for start-ups in Africa and thr Middle East.
He added the OSVP will reward and sponsor technological projects that bring positive impact and solutions to societal challenges in the field of education, health, agriculture and sustainable development.
He asserted that Orange is a brand that believes in the ideology of philanthropy and they are very keen on giving back and touching lives. He congratulated the winners and wished them well as they prepare to represent Sierra Leone at the International Competition.
The winner of the National Grand Prize James Samba of Sierra Electric, asserted that he is absolutely thrilled to have won the prestigious Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) National Grand Prize 2023. He went on to say that it is an incredible achievement for him and also a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of his entire team.
James Samba pitched the idea of creating a greener and more sustainable future for Sierra Leone. With electric vehicles and retrofitting services. The aim is to combat air pollution, reduce fuel costs, and ensure accessibility for all, including persons with disabilities.
Hawanatu Sesay, current Administrative Manager of Digital Islam, won the OSVP ‘Tech Queen award’ 2023. She is one of the bright minds in Digital Islam and has received a whopping sum that will aide her innovation project.
The finalists and winners acknowledged that they are humble and grateful for this recognition, as it motivates them even more to continue striving for excellence.
“Our journey has just begun, and we are excited to represent Sierra Leone at the OSVP International Competition later this year” they said. They thanked Orange-SL and everyone who believed in their vision and supported them along the way.
The event climaxed with the handing over of the prizes to the winners.
