AYV News, September 5, 2023
AWOL (All Works of Life) America has held a successful 8th Annual Achievement Awards at the Arundel Live Casino Ballroom in Hanover, MD, USA.
AWOL’s Global Chairman, Amb. Anthony Navo Jr. said: “Today, we gather to celebrate extraordinary individuals who have made a lasting impact, uplifted our communities, and inspired progress. As the Global Chairman of AWOL, I am honored to be here in the United States of America, in the beautiful state of Maryland, to celebrate those who excel and make a difference.
“I always look forward to this event, but this one is particularly special. We have attendees from all walks of life, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to AWOL America, its executive team, and members, for their unwavering dedication in keeping the AWOL flame burning. Your efforts are greatly appreciated, and together, we are “Putting Salone Fos”
“Allow me to extend a warm welcome and special tribute to our esteemed guests and performers this evening, including our special guest and dear friend, one of the comedian from the Republic of Sierra Leone, Richie of Obama. Welcome to the AWOL family.
“AWOL, which stands for “All Works of Life,” is now a global development organization committed to educational objectives that contribute to society. We engage in various initiatives, including cultural entertainment programs, accessible healthcare, education, sustainable development, and internationally coordinated efforts aimed at poverty alleviation and sustainable development.
“The AWOL brand is truly unique and inspiring. It not only brings Sierra Leoneans together in unity but also provides us with a remarkable opportunity to give back to our beloved country. AWOL helps build the next generation of role models and inspires positive mindsets and change.
“Since its official launch in 2001 by the late revered President Dr. Ahmed Tejan Kabbah, AWOL has demonstrated remarkable resilience and longevity. It has the potential not only to endure indefinitely but also to drive the change and transformation our nation so desperately needs.
“One of our most significant success stories is the establishment of AWOL Chapters in the Diaspora: here in the USA, in the UK, in Europe, in Australia, and now Africa, as The Gambia is working towards its own AWOL Chapter.
“As we often emphasize, AWOL does not belong to a select few; it belongs to all Sierra Leoneans. We are merely custodians for the present moment. One day, others will take the baton and carry forward the noble work and ideals of AWOL, achieving even greater things.
“We take immense pride in having established such an institution for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans.
Back in Sierra Leone, the AWOL parent body faced some challenges since our last organization of the prestigious and popular National Achievement Awards in 2019. “However, challenges are meant to be overcome and to make us stronger. Therefore, we are pleased to announce the return of the National Achievement Awards later this year, in December. These awards are an annual event that recognizes the contributions of diverse individuals and communities making a difference. They also aim to promote excellence, hard work, and diligence in both public and private service.
“We’ve also marked our comeback with the feeding of homeless children in the Northern district headquarters town of Makeni, in commemoration of the Day of the African Child on June 16th, 2023. AWOL remains committed to complementing the efforts of the Government of Sierra Leone and the people of Sierra Leone in nation-building.
“It’s essential to remember that despite our differences, Sierra Leone remains one of the most peaceful nations on earth. Our experience of conflict has not deterred us from working together. In our differences, we find a common purpose to develop our beloved Sierra Leone. This unity is a remarkable gift to our nation.
“Tonight is a night of celebration, and we are proud to be a part of this historic event. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the nominees and eventual winners. I urge each one of you to savor this remarkable evening. Let’s celebrate excellence and inspire others to rise and shine”.
AWOL organises one of the largest and most prestigious annual award ceremonies in the United States of America, recognising Sierra Leonean and non-citizens for their extraordinary achievement given back to society.
The Awards was founded in 2001 by a group of young Sierra Leoneans from various backgrounds in Sierra Leone. AWOL America branch is a charitable organisation with its membership drawn from among Sierra Leoneans from various callings of life such as lawyers, nurses, drivers, entrepreneurs, accountants, retail operatives and students among others who share common aspirations to contribute to the development of Sierra Leone and Africa genuinely and selflessly.
AWOL Awards is an annual event rewarding the contribution of a diverse people and communities who are making a difference. The Awards also aimed to promote excellence, hard work and diligence in public, as well as private, service.
One of Sierra Leone’s renowned comedians, Richmond Purcell Coker fondly ‘Richie Obama’, performed at the event and got his audience laughing their sides out with his unique, unpredictable and unscripted comedy lyrics.
With cameras set in strategic places all around the jam-packed room, Richie kept his audience laughing throughout his session to an extent many were spotted with tears running down their checks.
Richie Obama is renowned for his unique style of comedy and witty storytelling and this has gained him a loyal fan base with his ability to captivate audiences and leave them in stitches.
With a reputation for delivering hilarious performances, Richie Obama’s shows have been a highlight of Sierra Leone’s entertainment calendar.
Richie Obama, known for his ability to connect with his audience and deliver relatable humour, has been actively preparing for this show.
His dedication and passion for comedy have earned him a reputation as one of Sierra Leone’s most beloved comedians. Fans at the AWOL America 8th Annual Achievement Awards Ceremony enjoyed a night filled with hilarious anecdotes, witty observations and unforgettable punchlines.
The announcement of Richie Obama’s presence at the AWOL America 8th Annual Achievement Awards Ceremony generated significant buzz on social media platforms days before the event, with fans expressing their excitement and anticipation for the event.
Richie Obama holds a Diploma in Networking from Amity University, India, a holder of Diploma in Graphics Design from Banktec College and a holder of Diploma in Computer Engineering from African Information Technology Holdings.
He is also a holder of Bachelor of Social Sciences in Social Work from Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone.
He works for and with corporate institutions as a Professional and a career Professional Comedian of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
Richie said: “I may not be an expert in English Language but I am pleased to say that I have had many credit hours in English Language at the University and have had comfortable and impressive sessions with the use of the language both on stage and as a Professional.
“Yes, I have had great stage performances using the English Language as a means of communication on countless occasions and they form part of the reasons why different shades of gatherings including the United Nations Office in Sierra Leone would trust me with their microphones”.
