Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG) marked International Youth Day 2025 with a vibrant celebration that brought together youth leaders and managers from high management. The event, held at the company’s headquarters in Freetown, and the theme was “diverse and inclusive mining” celebrating the contributions of diverse youths in the mining industry and promote inclusivity. Mohamed kanneh who addressed the youths stated, “Leone Rock’s success is built not only on minerals but on the dedication, skills, and dreams of its young workforce. Each one of you has the potential to influence positive change not just in our company, but in Sierra Leone as a whole.”
On International Youth Day, LRMG reaffirmed its commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders by hosting a dynamic event that showcased youth-led projects and celebrated their contributions to sustainable development.
The event featured interactive sessions, idea pitches Genz mentorship rounds from youth, stories exchange by managers in the company and presentation of gifts to the youths.
CEO of Leone Rock Metal Group Gilbert Zhao, delivered a compelling message to the youths, drawing connections between the rapid growth of global businesses and the pivotal role young people play in shaping their own futures and that of the company. “Businesses around the world are growing at an unprecedented pace, driven by innovation, technology, and the courage to embrace change,” Zhao stated. “In Sierra Leone, Leone Rock Metal Group is at the forefront of this transformation, moving from raw mineral exports to value-added production, such as our planned steel factory set to begin construction in 2025. But this growth is not just about infrastructure or profits it’s about people, especially our youth, who bring energy, creativity, and determination to the table.”
Zhao emphasized that a positive attitude is the foundation of success. “Your mindset shapes your actions, and your actions shape your future,” he advised. “Approach challenges with optimism and a willingness to learn, and you will unlock opportunities that seem impossible today.”
Teamwork was another cornerstone of Zhao’s speech, he lamented that, “No business, no community, no nation thrives without collaboration,” he said. “At Leone Rock, our success comes from working hand-in-hand with our employees, communities, and the government. For you, the youth, teamwork means listening to diverse perspectives, sharing ideas, and building solutions together. Your ability to collaborate will determine how far you go and how much you achieve.”
The event concluded with a call to action from Mr Zhao, urging young people to take ownership of their futures by embracing innovation and collaboration. He announced LRMG’s plans to expand its youth empowerment programs, including mentorship, skills training, and partnerships with youth-led organizations
