The highly anticipated Sierra Leone Talent Search is set to kick off on March 25, 2025, and the inaugural edition comes with an exciting addition—Kate Krontiris, an accomplished musician and ethnographer, will be one of the hosts of the groundbreaking competition.
For the first time ever, Cribs International is conducting a nationwide talent search, bringing together over 200 aspiring artists from across the country. Under the leadership of CEO Sho Cole, the competition aims to provide unsigned musicians with a golden opportunity to break into the industry.
As one of the judges, Kate Krontiris will bring her deep musical expertise and global perspective to the show. An American singer-songwriter based in Sierra Leone, Kate is known for her folk orchestral sound, blending layered vocal harmonies with poignant storytelling. Some of her work incorporates Afrobeats, brass band, and funk influences, making her a unique figure in Sierra Leone’s music scene. She is also the co-founder of Telem Uncommon Sounds, an initiative that supports and showcases innovative musicians in Freetown.
Kate’s background in music extends far beyond Sierra Leone. She has performed internationally, including as a participant in the Global Musicians Workshop, an initiative founded by Yo-Yo Ma to foster cross-cultural understanding through music. She was also part of the Berklee at the Gnaoua and World Music Festival in 2024, performing alongside members of Telem Uncommon Sounds.
Beyond music, Kate is an accomplished facilitator, strategist, and researcher, having worked with global organizations such as Google, Facebook, and the U.S. Digital Service under President Barack Obama. Her expertise in leadership and organizational development brings a unique dynamic to the Sierra Leone Talent Search, ensuring that contestants not only showcase their musical abilities but also gain valuable insights into the industry.
This year’s innaugarual competition promises to be bigger than ever, with legendary Nigerian producer Masterkraft on the judging panel, along with other top vocal coaches and producers. The show aims to uncover Sierra Leone’s next big stars, offering professional song distribution and a grand prize to the winners.