In the spirit of camaraderie and shared experiences, the Sierra Leone – United States Alumni Association (SLUSAA) recently hosted its annual event, echoing the success and vibrancy of the inaugural gathering in 2019. This year’s affair served as more than a reunion—it was a testament to the strength and resilience of SLUSAA’s diverse community.

The 2022 event, akin to its predecessor in 2019, brought together alumni members from various backgrounds for a day filled with interaction, networking, and the warmth of shared camaraderie. The setting provided a familial atmosphere, allowing alumni to connect as a large, extended family. It was a day of laughter, joyful banter, and the joyous rekindling of old friendships.

Indoor games served as the perfect icebreaker, breaking down barriers and creating an atmosphere of playfulness. From spirited competitions to collaborative activities, the alumni community reveled in the joy of shared experiences. Humor-filled discussions and jokes echoed through the venue, creating an environment where the bonds of friendship and shared education experiences were celebrated.

As the day unfolded, a momentous occasion awaited the attendees. Sarah Van Horne, the esteemed Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy in Sierra Leone, took the stage to make a special announcement. The announcement marked a new chapter in SLUSAA’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.

With enthusiasm and a sense of purpose, Sarah Van Horne unveiled July 16 as the official Alumni Giveback Day. This annual initiative, pioneered by SLUSAA, serves as a platform for alumni members to unite in a collective effort to give back to their communities and contribute to the development of Sierra Leone. The date was not chosen arbitrarily; instead, it stands as a symbolic representation of the association’s commitment to making a positive impact.

The Alumni Giveback Day is far more than a symbolic gesture—it’s a call to action, a commitment to active community service. It beckons SLUSAA members to join forces and channel their collective energy into initiatives that uplift their communities and contribute to the betterment of the nation. The initiative aims to be a catalyst for positive change, leveraging the skills, experiences, and networks of SLUSAA members for the greater good.

In the spirit of the Alumni Giveback Day, the inaugural event included a significant project—tree planting across all five regions of Sierra Leone. Members of the organization, alongside volunteers from diverse backgrounds, actively participated in this impactful initiative. Over a thousand trees were planted across the cities of Freetown, Bo, Makeni, Port Loko, and Kenema. This collective effort not only beautified the landscape but also served as a tangible contribution to the fight against climate change in Sierra Leone.

As the event concluded, the echoes of laughter, shared experiences, and the launch of the Alumni Giveback Day reverberated within the SLUSAA community. This annual gathering and the associated initiatives are not just events; they are building blocks for a lasting legacy. The Alumni Giveback Day, with its roots in community service, is poised to become a hallmark of SLUSAA’s commitment to making a positive impact on Sierra Leone.

In the years to come, SLUSAA envisions this annual tradition as a beacon, inspiring continued engagement, collaboration, and meaningful contributions to the communities that have shaped its members. By uniting alumni, fostering connections, and actively giving back, SLUSAA is sowing the seeds for a future where positive change is not just a possibility but a collective reality.