The Starfish Skill Centre radiated pride and possibility on Saturday as it hosted its second graduation ceremony, honoring 45 remarkable students from the 2023, 2024, and 2025 batches. Trained in Catering and pastry, Hairdressing and makeup, and Tailoring, these graduates showcased not only their skills but also their readiness to transform their communities with creativity and purpose.
The event was a colorful tapestry of cultural celebration, featuring traditional dances from the Mandinka, Jola, Fula, and Manjago communities. The graduates’ solo and group poetry performances resonated deeply, underscoring the vital role of homegrown talent in building stronger, more vibrant communities. Their words served as a reminder that these skills are not merely a means to a livelihood, but lifelines for progress.
Distinguished guests amplified the day’s significance. Dr. Jorjoh Ndure Tambedou, a pioneer in the ICT sector and owner of Insist Global, inspired the audience with her innovation journey. Mam Yassin SarrFox, co-founder of Starfish International, spoke passionately about empowering youth. Representatives from the Chefs Association, PTA, Lamin’s Tailors’ Association, and the President’s Awards Scheme echoed the transformative power of skilled hands and dedicated hearts.
Headmistress Mama Kujabi delivered an emotional address, reflecting on the centre’s founding and her immense pride in the graduating class. “These students are not just skilled; they are dreamers and doers,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. In a testament to the centre’s commitment, five graduates were immediately employed by Starfish Skill Centre. At the same time, top performers in each discipline received sewing machines, ovens, and other startup materials to kickstart their entrepreneurial journeys.
The graduates stole the show with their creativity. Tailoring students presented stunning designs, modeled with elegance and flair. Catering and pastry students crafted a breathtaking cake that mirrored the graduation theme, while Hairdressing and makeup students unveiled intricate hair art and a jaw-dropping masterpiece made entirely from mesh, from earrings to shoes. The display was a powerful testament to their skill and innovation.
Beyond the ceremony, a bustling mini marketplace outside the hall showcased the graduates’ handiwork. From student-made products to delicious food and refreshing local drinks, the market buzzed with entrepreneurial spirit, with graduates confidently selling their creations. The scene vividly illustrated their readiness to contribute to their communities.
The day was more than a graduation—it celebrated excellence, resilience, and limitless potential. Headmistress Kujabi noted, “These graduates are proof that anything is possible with opportunity and hard work.” The Starfish Skill Centre remains a beacon of hope, equipping young people with the tools to rise, lead, and make a difference.
