Organizers
Meet Egerton Shabba – CEO of Sierra Leone Music Awards Ltd (SLEMA)
Egerton Shabba is a pioneering figure in Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry, with an illustrious career spanning 28 years. As a professional DJ, broadcaster, promoter, and visionary leader, Shabba has played a pivotal role in shaping the music landscape of Sierra Leone and elevating its artists to international recognition. His passion for music and dedication to promoting Sierra Leonean talent have made him a household name both locally and globally.
Shabba began his career in the 1990s as a professional DJ and broadcaster, quickly rising to become one of the most prominent DJs in Sierra Leone. His unique style, charisma, and deep understanding of music earned him a loyal fan base and cemented his status as a trailblazer in the industry. Even today, his contributions as a DJ are celebrated, and he remains a respected figure in the global music community.
One of Shabba’s most significant achievements is his role in promoting Sierra Leonean music on the international stage. He was among the first DJs and promoters to travel with Sierra Leonean artists to perform at shows around the world, showcasing the richness of Sierra Leonean culture and music to global audiences. His efforts have been instrumental in the success stories of many A-list Sierra Leonean artists, helping them gain recognition and opportunities beyond their home country.
In the 1990s, Shabba made history by organizing one of the biggest rap competitions in Sierra Leone, providing a platform for emerging talent and fostering a vibrant hip-hop culture in the country. His innovative approach to entertainment and his commitment to nurturing young artists have left an indelible mark on the industry.
Shabba’s influence extends beyond Sierra Leone’s borders. He has been instrumental in bringing international reggae icons to Sierra Leone, including Morgan Heritage and Lucky Dube, for groundbreaking performances that captivated audiences and strengthened cultural ties. These events not only entertained but also inspired a new generation of musicians and fans.
Today, Egerton Shabba continues to champion Sierra Leonean music and artists through his engaging entertainment program on Facebook, where he shares his vast knowledge and experience with a global audience. His dedication to promoting Sierra Leonean music remains unwavering, making him a true ambassador for the industry.
As the CEO of Sierra Leone Music Awards Ltd, Shabba leads one of the most prestigious platforms for recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Sierra Leonean musicians. His leadership and vision continue to drive the growth and development of the country’s music industry, ensuring that Sierra Leonean artists receive the recognition they deserve.
Egerton Shabba’s legacy is one of passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the arts. His contributions have not only shaped the entertainment industry in Sierra Leone but have also inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams in music. He remains a beacon of excellence and a true icon in the world of entertainment.
Meet Racheal Bangura-Davies – Executive Director, Sierra Leone Music Awards Ltd (SLEMA)
Racheal Bangura-Davies is a distinguished media personality, journalist, broadcaster, and presenter, renowned for her impactful contributions to the media and entertainment industry in Sierra Leone. She is the host of “Tell It To Racheal”, an inspiring and widely popular talk show that has been a staple on SLBS TV since 2009. The show has become a platform for meaningful conversations, addressing critical social issues, and inspiring positive change in society.
In addition to her media career, Racheal has been a passionate advocate for the entertainment industry, particularly in the fight against piracy. Since 2013, she has been at the forefront of efforts to enact the Piracy Act in Sierra Leone, working tirelessly to protect the intellectual property and creative works of entertainers. Her advocacy aims to ensure that artists are financially empowered and their craft is safeguarded, fostering a thriving and sustainable entertainment industry.
Racheal is also a dedicated Women’s Rights activist. Through her organization, Women’s Leadership Advancement for Democracy-Sierra Leone (WoLead-SL), she has championed the empowerment, advocacy, and promotion of women’s leadership across various sectors. Her work has focused on encouraging the active participation of women in Sierra Leone’s electoral processes, striving to create equal opportunities for women in the political arena. By doing so, she has contributed to the advancement of democracy and gender equality in the country.
As the Project Manager for the Sierra Leone Music Awards Ltd (SLEMA), Racheal brings her wealth of experience, passion, and leadership to the forefront. Her role involves overseeing the organization and execution of the awards, which celebrate and recognize the talents of Sierra Leonean musicians while promoting the growth of the music industry. Her commitment to excellence and her dedication to empowering creatives and women alike make her an invaluable asset to SLEMA and the broader community.
Racheal Bangura-Davies continues to inspire and lead through her multifaceted career, leaving an indelible mark on Sierra Leone’s media, entertainment, and social justice landscapes.