By: Alieu Ceesay
The fifth edition of the Heroes Awards illuminated the Sir Dawda Jawara Kairaba Conference Centre in Bijilo last night. A vibrant gathering celebrated the extraordinary contributions of professionals and individuals whose work has inspired excellence across diverse fields. The prestigious event, attended by luminaries and dedicated changemakers, recognized recipients in eleven categories, showcasing their commitment to innovation, philanthropy, and societal progress.
This year’s ceremony honored various institutions and individuals who have earned international acclaim for their impactful work. Mr. Cherno Ceesay was named Trailblazer of the Year for his groundbreaking innovations, while the DHM Charity Foundation received the Philanthropist Award for its transformative charitable initiatives. Muhammad Hydara took home the Green Award of the Year for his leadership in environmental sustainability, and the Talinding Islamic Institute was celebrated with the Education Prize for Excellence.
Yankuba Jabbi was recognized as Health Servant of the Year in the healthcare sector for his selfless service. Joyce Rilley, a beacon of inspiration, was honored as Exemplary Youth of the Year, while the late Rev. Father Bruno was posthumously awarded an Icon Award, with his family accepting the accolade in a heartfelt moment. The Diaspora Engagement of the Year Award went to the Diaspora Club for fostering vital cross-border connections, and Special Awards were presented to Fatoumata Batoulie Nyan and the Malian delegation for their unique contributions.
Brighton and Gambian football sensation Yankuba Minteh was crowned Person of the Year, captivating the audience with his meteoric rise. Agi Gass Ceesay, recipient of the Agricultural Leadership Award, expressed profound gratitude during her acceptance speech, dedicating his achievement to Fatou Camara, CEO of the Fatu Network. “I truly thank Fatou for this award. I am genuinely happy, and I want to assure her that we will continue doing good work,” Ceesay said, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the evening.
The event drew an eclectic crowd, uniting individuals from varied backgrounds to celebrate excellence and forge stronger ties among institutions. Among the notable attendees were Senegalese music legend Youssou N’Dour, Gambian Kora maestro Jaliba Kuyateh, and ST Brikama Boyo, whose presence amplified the celebratory atmosphere. Their participation highlighted the event’s role as a cultural and professional collaboration platform, blending artistry with social impact.
The Heroes Awards serve as a beacon of recognition, spotlighting those who drive progress in their communities and beyond. This year’s ceremony honored individual and institutional achievements and reinforced the power of collective dedication to creating a brighter future. As the night concluded, attendees left inspired, carrying forward the shared commitment to excellence that defined the evening.
The Fatu Network, organizers of the event, expressed pride in the growing legacy of the Heroes Awards, which has become a cornerstone of celebration in the region. With each edition, the ceremony strengthens its mission to uplift those who lead purposefully, ensuring their stories resonate far beyond the conference halls of Bijilo.
