By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone’s creative industry is set for a major transformation with the launch of the Hawawa Academy of Fashion and Creative Arts, scheduled to officially open in November this year. Founded by Chief Executive Officer Hawawa Turay, the Academy promises to provide world-class training and open new opportunities for aspiring professionals in the fashion and creative sector.
According to the CEO, Hawawa Turay, this is a dream that has turn to reality. “a dream finally becoming a reality.” She explained that her vision was to create a platform where passion meets professionalism, enabling Sierra Leoneans to compete on the international stage.
“For too long, our young people have had the passion and raw talent, but not enough platforms to refine their skills and compete globally,” she said. “At Hawawa Academy, every program is designed to give students not just technical knowledge but also the confidence and mindset to succeed anywhere.”
The Academy will offer a wide range of specialized courses tailored to both beginners and experienced practitioners. Programs include:
Fashion Design – covering sketching, tailoring, garment construction and fashion business management.
Cosmetology – training in skincare, body treatments and wellness practices.
Makeup Artistry – focusing on beauty, bridal and special effects makeup.
Event Management – equipping students with planning, coordination and logistics skills.
Hairdressing – combining traditional styles with modern hair care and styling techniques.
Nails and Lashes – focusing on nail artistry, grooming and lash extensions.
Entrepreneurship in the Arts – building the business foundation necessary to thrive in the creative economy.
Turay emphasized that the Academy’s mission goes beyond teaching practical skills. “Our vision is to provide not just training but a complete foundation for success in the creative industry. Discipline, creativity and entrepreneurship will be central to our teaching,” she said.
To achieve this, Hawawa Academy has assembled a strong team of tutors that includes some of Sierra Leone’s most respected professionals alongside international experts from Nigeria, Ghana and other African countries. The diverse faculty will bring fresh ideas, global best practices and practical experience into every classroom.
“This is about raising the bar and ensuring Sierra Leoneans are trained to international standards,” Turay added. “We want to give our students global exposure while keeping them grounded in our cultural identity.”
Beyond academic training, the Academy plans to create opportunities for students to showcase their work through exhibitions, fashion shows and industry partnerships. Its long-term goal is to position Sierra Leone as a hub for fashion and creative innovation in West Africa.
Turay believes the Academy marks the beginning of a broader movement to transform the nation’s creative economy. “Together, we are going to put Sierra Leone firmly on the map in the world of fashion and creative arts,” she said.
Enrollment for the first batch of students is now open, and the Academy is encouraging early registration. Turay called on young people with a passion for creativity to take advantage of the opportunity to turn their talent into sustainable careers.
For more information and registration, the public can contact +232 72705400.
With the launch of the Hawawa Academy, Sierra Leone’s creative industry is on the brink of a new chapter that promises empowerment, innovation and global recognition for its talents.
