More than 150 young people have been enrolled in the second cohort of the Spark Media Masterclass following a competitive selection process.
Solomon J. Keikura, Head of Programmes at Spark Media, said over 600 people applied for the programme, but only 155 participants were accepted after screening. The orientation for the new cohort was held on Monday, bringing together successful applicants from different backgrounds.
Foday Issadin Kamara, Managing Director at Spark Media, a content creator and communications consultant, encouraged the participants to take the programme seriously. He reflected on his journey in learning videography and content creation, noting that he did not have the opportunity these young people now have.
He said the masterclass is designed to empower young people with skills that can help them get jobs or create jobs for themselves.
“I hope that each and every one of you will take this seriously. Last year, we had over 50 graduates, and some of them are now employed in government institutions, while we were able to retain the best students from the videography department as staff at Spark Media,” he said.
Sulayman Tamba Bangura, an alumnus of the first cohort, said during his statement that he is a testament to what participants can achieve if they take the training seriously. He added that he is now a staff member at Spark Media because of his commitment, dedication, and consistent effort to learn and improve.
Emmanuel AJ Cole, Head of the Videography Department, also encouraged participants to take the programme seriously. He shared his personal story, saying he learned videography by watching YouTube videos.
He told the participants that while the training will provide them with skills, the rest depends on their own practice. “You will need to go out and create content every day,” he said.
Benjamin Thoronka, Head of the Photography Department, encouraged participants to remain committed. Thoronka, an award-winning photographer who won the Vickie Remoe Prize and an ECOWAS competition in Senegal, said consistency is key.
“You just have to be committed and ensure that you practice every day,” he said.
Joseph Ellie Cooper, a professional web developer and Head of the Web Development Department, also encouraged participants to take the classes seriously. He said web development is no longer as difficult as it used to be and requires commitment and practice.
“If you learn web development, the opportunities are great. You can work with shops, business owners, and get requests to build websites for their businesses, and they will pay you,” he said.
The training will focus on practical digital skills, including photography, videography, graphic design, and web development. The initiative aims to equip young people with tools that can help them build careers in the creative and digital industry.
The organisers also used the event to thank their Chief Executive Officer, Joe L. Aruna, for what they described as strong leadership and support in creating opportunities for young people.
They further expressed appreciation to the Spark Media team and external tutors who are expected to support the training throughout the programme.
The Spark Media Masterclass is part of ongoing efforts to empower young people with skills that are increasingly in demand in today’s digital economy.
