By Sharad Pant
In 2010-11, I had the privilege of serving as a VSO volunteer in Sierra Leone, living in the small riverside town of Mattru Jong. While exploring the town one Sunday, I came across a building with a signboard displaying “African Youth Movement (AYM).” Curious, I stepped inside, where a group of young people greeted me warmly and shared the mission of AYM. I was excited to have found new friends outside of work.
The following morning, one of the young men, a tall boy I had met at the AYM office, joined me during my martial arts practice. He was interested in learning, but I clarified that martial arts required hard work and regular training. I invited him to join me the following day at 5 am, and he did so faithfully. His name was Sylvester, but he mentioned he loved chess, so I started calling him “Chess,” a nickname he gladly accepted. From then on, Chess became a daily companion and introduced me to other AYM volunteers like Omaru and Idris.
My friendships with the AYM volunteers transformed my experience in Mattru Jong. Together, we planned expeditions to places like Mosele Beach and Gendema Mountain. We cooked, slept under the stars, and spent hours by the river—creating unforgettable memories.
On Omaru’s request, I began sharing knowledge with the AYM volunteers on Sundays, covering topics such as teamwork, eco-tourism, motivation, time management, and business planning. They appreciated my contributions and, as a token of gratitude, often shared cornflour paste with me, a simple but delicious meal. Despite their severe poverty, they collected what little they had to prepare food, even though I urged them not to.
While it was heartbreaking to see my friends struggle daily with hunger and basic needs, I was continually inspired by their resilience. Despite their hardships, they never lost hope. They never complained or blamed anyone, remaining confident that a better future awaited them. Their unwavering spirit has stayed with me; whenever I face challenges, I remember the smiles of Chess, Omaru, and Idris and re-energized.
The AYM volunteers often spoke about Denis, a community leader whose teachings and work profoundly impacted them. I was eager to meet him, and when I finally did, I understood why. Denis introduced a solar energy system that helped the AYM volunteers start a mobile charging center, creating a new livelihood opportunity. They were also deeply involved in eco-tourism efforts and educating the community about the importance of trees for the ecosystem.
The AYM volunteers had ideas to improve their community, from building roads to providing electricity, clean water, and health services. Despite the many obstacles—lack of technology and financial resources—they remained determined to bring change. I do not doubt that their dreams will one day become reality, as their passion and drive are as precious as diamonds emerging from coal.
I wish them all the best in their journey toward a brighter future.
You can reach Sharad at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharad-pant-8b28088/