The University of Makeni (UNIMAK), through its Department of Mass Communications, has honoured one of its outstanding alumni, Yusuf Ibrahim Kamara, Chief Executive Officer of Hope Times Newspaper, with a prestigious presidential honorary award.
The recognition, presented by the Department and its student body, celebrates Yusuf’s visionary leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and groundbreaking initiatives as the first student from the Mass Communications Department to establish and operate a fully functional media house even before graduation.
Presentation happened on the 20th August 2025 at the office of Hope Times Newspaper.
Presenting the award, Saidu Bangura, President of the Mass Communications Department, described Yusuf as an inspiration. “On behalf of my department and the students’ body, we honour you for your good work and your amazing leadership contributions. This award celebrates both your past and current achievements,” he noted.
In his acceptance speech, Yusuf expressed deep gratitude to the University and credited his success to resilience, mentorship, and strong family support. “On behalf of myself and my senior colleagues present, I want to appreciate you. Special thanks to my amazing wife for giving me the inspiration and support behind this media establishment. She has been a strong motivation, and thankfully today, I am surviving through it,” he remarked.
Reflecting on the challenges of youth unemployment in Sierra Leone, he highlighted his decision to pursue self-employment. “Considering how tedious it is to secure a job in Sierra Leone, I took the path of self-employment, and I have no regrets doing so. Through my media focus, I am able to connect with like-minded people,” Yusuf added.
The ceremony also attracted notable voices in the country’s media landscape. Sahr Moris Jr, President of the Sierra Leone Sports Writers Association, commended Yusuf’s example, saying, “It is good to recognize people when they are actively executing their craft. Yusuf is a great example to Masscom students, and this award signals a change of mentality in the new era of journalism. It means that eyes are on you, so keep on the positive work and remain humble.”
Mustapha Dumbuya, CEO of Vantage Newspaper, also praised the recognition. “This is not just an award, it shows that our brother is doing great work in the media landscape. Thank you to the Masscom Department and by extension the University of Makeni,” he said.
The award marks a milestone not only in Yusuf’s professional journey but also in the history of the University’s Mass Communications Department, reinforcing its reputation for producing leaders who are reshaping Sierra Leone’s media space.
