Community Innovation Hub

The Community Innovation Hub (CIH) is a free vocational training program designed to equip underserved and out-of-school youth in Sierra Leone with practical, marketable skills to improve their livelihoods and contribute to local development. Hosted by LEAD Sierra Leone in Makeni, the program targets young people—particularly women and NEET youth (Not in Education, Employment, or Training)—who face barriers to economic opportunity.

Through a three-month intensive training cycle, participants gain both technical vocational skills and soft skills in leadership, communication, and entrepreneurship. The program blends hands-on learning with mentorship and personal development to empower youth to pursue self-employment, launch small businesses, or secure meaningful jobs.

This initiative is open to young people aged 16–30 who are committed to building a better future for themselves and their communities through skill acquisition and innovation.

What We Offer

Participants can choose from hands-on vocational tracks:

Fashion Design
Cake Making
Arts & Crafts
Computer Literacy (Microsoft Packages)

In addition to technical skills, trainees participate in bi-monthly core modules:

Effective Communication
Leadership Development
Entrepreneurship & Business Basics

CHI Alumni Testimonials

"Before joining the Community Innovation Hub, I had no skills and little hope of finding a job. LEAD Sierra Leone didn't just teach me how to sew—they gave me the confidence to dream big and the tools to make those dreams a reality. The entrepreneurship training was just as valuable as the tailoring skills. I now understand how to price my work, manage my finances, and serve my customers professionally. I am proud to be a CIH graduate and a role model in my community."

Sallieu Turay

Fashion Design

"I joined the CIH as a teenage mother with no income and very little support. The program welcomed me without judgment and gave me a second chance. I learned how to bake, decorate cakes, and run a small business from home. Now, I receive orders for birthdays, weddings, and special events—and I can support my child with dignity"

Fatima Jalloh

Cake Making

"Leaving with a disability, I often felt invisible—people looked past me, assuming I had nothing to offer. The Community Innovation Hub was the first place that saw my potential. They welcomed me without hesitation, provided a space that accommodated my needs, and gave me the training I needed to build a future. I learned tailoring from skilled facilitators who treated me with patience and respect."

"The Community Innovation Hub opened doors I never knew existed. Before CIH, I had basic computer knowledge, but the ICT training gave me advanced skills in Microsoft Office, digital communication, and online research. I am considering further studies in information technology. The CIH gave me a foundation that I am building upon every day. I am grateful to LEAD Sierra Leone for believing in young people like me and providing free, quality training that truly changes lives."

Ibrahim Kamara

Amie Thoronka

Fashion Design

Computer Microsoft