The Faculty of Communication, Media and Information Studies at Fourah Bay College just honored Memunatu Suma – one of their top students – after she emerged as the Best Graduating Student for 2024/2025. Instead of just applause, she walked away with Le10,000 in cash along with a paid three-month internship at MediaMix Express, which could kick off a solid career ahead.
For Memunatu, this win isn’t just about school. It’s a heartfelt triumph built on belief, grit – fueled by the steady courage of someone aiming to make her mom proud, even though she’s no longer around to witness it.
In a personal note to friends and supporters, Memunatu looked back at the journey behind her. She said she’d originally just wanted to graduate top of her class, yet things turned out differently. “I made goals, still, what God arranged worked out way better,” she shared, calling her achievement a quiet gift from fate.”.
She talked honestly about how she was the sole sibling out of six to go through the English-based schools – a goal her mom once dreamed up, but died before seeing it happen when Memunatu finished secondary. That success, according to her, honors her mother’s wish while also showing how much help came from relatives, guides along the way, or just people close to her.
The road to finishing school wasn’t easy at all. Just like plenty of learners managing jobs alongside classes, Memunatu had to handle due dates, coursework, yet also job duties at a range of well-known places. She’s worked at Sierra Network Salone; then moved to AYV News – there, she’s the youngest person reading the news – ahead of others. After that came ActionAid Sierra Leone, followed by StoryArc Africa in Kenya, later on joining UNDP back home. From these gigs, she realized quick: knowing your stuff matters just as much as real-world practice when it comes to communication work.
“Those bittersweet moments molded me into the woman I am today,” she wrote. “Calculated, strong-willed, purposeful, and job-market ready.”
Memunatu said her family always had her back, emotionally plus financially – she never missed essentials while chasing school goals. She gave props to older guides who shaped her work ethic, calling out key names like Amadu Lamrana Bah, Elizabeth Momoh, or even Mamawa Antonia Howard.
She thanked the department heads, teachers, and school leaders – they pushed each learner to stay focused while aiming high. At the same time, she pointed out how classmates made a difference, sticking around during tough spots and good moments alike.
The head of FCMIS, Dr. Francis Sowa, gave kudos to Memunatu along with the rest who got awards, hoping every grad does well once they start working in their fields.
For Memunatu, this isn’t the end – just a start. Like she said: “God willing, there’ll be plenty more steps ahead.”
Her journey today reminds kids in Sierra Leone – keep going, believe, or lean on others – it might get hard, but breakthroughs are possible no matter the struggle.
