Nna Kala Poetry Academy Hosts Second Recreational Trip for Young People

By Fatou Dahaba

Nna Kala Virtual Poetry Academy has successfully organized its second recreational trip to the picturesque Foni Bintang Bolong Lodge, nestled in the heart of Foni within the beautiful West Coast Region. The memorable excursion took place on the serenely delightful Saturday, August 3rd, 2024. 

The trip’s purpose was to create an opportunity for young poets from diverse backgrounds to come together with accomplished speakers who could inspire and motivate them through their stories and experiences. The goal was to provide an environment where the poets could learn from one another, gain new perspectives, and ultimately foster their growth and development as writers and young people. 

Prominent speakers at the event delivered compelling presentations on various topics, shedding light on the significance of poetry as an art form, intricate aspects of career development, graphic design’s visual storytelling prowess, and the essential traits of successful entrepreneurship.

Saffiyah Joof, Chief Executive Officer and founder of Nna Kala Poetry Academy told the poets that they can achieve their dreams with commitment, discipline, and determination.

Giving a brief history of her organization, Saffiyah said that Nna Kala started two years ago with little support from individuals. ” With hard work and perseverance, we have implemented various programs geared towards empowering their members.”

Veteran educationist Michael Hamadi Secka advised the young poets to write books that will be universally accepted, as they are not competing at the national level.

He said Language can be used to expose the book because it plays an important role and is very powerful in compelling people to listen, as poetry is imaginary.

‘If you want to be a Poet, you have to do research on it. By doing that, you can become the best at what you do if you give it your time.’

Alhagie Mamadi Kurang, a politician and Educationist who spoke on career guidance said the world is evolving, and professions are charging.

“Therefore, one needs a combination of different skills to stand out and find a new way to go,” Mr Kurang said.

He added that whatever one does, one must work hard, be the best in that area, and be ready to take up challenges and impress the world.

“In this digital era, you must be multifaceted and versatile and be ready to learn if you’re building a career.”

On the way forward for career development for young people, he reiterated that there are two options: to specialize and be the best in that area or to specialize in more than one profession.

Ousman Jah, a web developer and graphic designer, also discussed the importance of studying graphic design and web development.

While emphasizing creativity in graphic design, Mr. Jah pointed out that you have to learn many skills to become a graphic designer because the more you learn, the more you improve your skills.

He urged young people with skills and knowledge to show themselves to attract attention and inspire others.

‘I encourage all of you to take up web design and development seriously or pursue a career where you can employ yourself.’

Ebrima Bah, a speaker at the entrepreneurship event, said that one must have a solution to a problem to become an entrepreneur.

“Business people are people who set up businesses to make a profit, but entrepreneurs see problems and provide solutions, such as societal issues, and they’re innovative.”

He added that one should always think ahead, create ideas, and build networks to learn from and be inspired.

He advises them to always look for a market that will sell their products and stop copying other people’s ideas, which may not always work.