Are you interested in learning about Sierra Leone, the community in the UK and looking to get inspiration? If so, you need to be at #BeamTalks on the 04/10/2017.

In 1991 a brutal civil war broke out in Sierra Leone, a country on the west coast of Africa. Since the war the narratives around the country has always been negative and often linked to the civil war, blood diamonds, child soldiers, amputations, sex slaves and the recent Ebola epidemic. The war left an indelible mark in our hearts and minds. Just as in other conflict regions, women in Sierra Leone bore the brunt of the atrocities committed. All the positive work amongst the community in the diaspora are often not spoken about or highlighted. Beam Talks is creating a platform in the UK to change this and share inspiring stories.

Beam Talks is Smiling Through Light’s UK initiative which showcases the diverse career routes taken by Sierra Leonean women living in the UK. The event will provides a space where role models can discuss their achievements, experiences and challenges with a new generation of change-makers.

This interactive panel discussion will take place on Wednesday 4th October 2017 at EBI, 20 Old Broad Street, London, EC2N 1DP at 6pm.

The discussion will cover:

• How do you fund a start-up and take it to the next level
• Finance / Investment & Registering different company entities
• Achievements, experiences and challenges with a new generation of change-makers.
• Contributions of the Sierra Leonean community in the UK.
• Update on Smiling Through Light's activities - access to clean energy in Sierra Leone.

Confirmed Speakers List:

• Edward George, Country Head, UK Representative Office & Head of Research, Ecobank
• Mariama Kamara, Founder & Director, Smiling Through Light
• Memuna Forna, Strategic Communications Consultant & Founder, Invest Sierra Leone
• Georgina Walker, Property Entrepreneur, Walker Property Group
• Grace Camara, Legal Manager, Thomas Reuters Foundation

Who should attend:

• Senior officials from African government bodies
• Renewable Energy companies
• Members of the African Diaspora
• Entrepreneurs
• Bloggers
• Journalists

If you would like to sponsor the event, please contact Mariama Kamara at mariama@smilingthroughlight.org

Due to the venue, you must REGISTER to attend this event. To avoid disappointment please register here: http://bit.ly/beamtalksoctober