Ambassador Bryan D. Hunt delivered remarks at the 2025 Alumni Awards Reception held in the atrium of the U.S. Embassy in Freetown on July 30, 2025. The event brought together alumni, guests, and embassy staff to recognize the achievements of individuals who have participated in U.S. government exchange programs.
During his speech, Ambassador Hunt expressed appreciation for the Sierra Leone-United States Alumni Association (SLUSAA) and its president, Salwa Campbell, for organizing the event and supporting ongoing connections among alumni. He said: "First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Sierra Leone-United States Alumni Association or 'SLUSAA' for organizing this wonderful event. Under the leadership of your president, Salwa Campbell, and her dedicated board, SLUSAA has continued to thrive as a vibrant community of changemakers. Salwa, your vision and commitment have been instrumental in fostering connections among alumni and amplifying the impact of U.S. exchange programs in Sierra Leone. Thank you for your hard work and for bringing us together this evening."
Ambassador Hunt also acknowledged Nandi Zulu, Alumni and Exchange Coordinator at the embassy: "I would also like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of Nandi Zulu, our Alumni and Exchange Coordinator at the embassy. Nandi, your dedication to supporting alumni and ensuring the success of our exchange programs is truly remarkable. You have been a bridge between the embassy and the alumni community, and your work has strengthened the bonds that tie us all together. Thank you for your invaluable contributions."
He highlighted how various exchange initiatives—including Fulbright Program, Mandela Washington Fellowship, International Visitor Leadership Program—have helped equip participants with skills that benefit both countries: "As we gather this evening, we are reminded of the transformative power of exchange programs. Whether through the Fulbright Program, the Mandela Washington Fellowship, the International Visitor Leadership Program, or other initiatives, these programs have equipped individuals with the tools to lead, innovate, and inspire. They have fostered mutual understanding and created opportunities for collaboration that transcend borders. At their core, they make both the United States and Sierra Leone stronger, safer, and more prosperous."
Ambassador Hunt noted that alumni use their experiences from U.S.-based programs to contribute as educators, entrepreneurs, advocates, and leaders in Sierra Leone: "The alumni we honor tonight are living proof of this impact. You have taken the knowledge, skills, and experiences gained during your time in the United States and applied them to make a difference here in Sierra Leone. You are educators, entrepreneurs, advocates,and leaders in your communities. Your work is a testament to the enduring partnership between our two nations and shared commitment to building a brighter future."
Looking forward to future collaboration on issues such as education reform or economic development within Sierra Leone's society was another theme: "As we celebrate your achievements let us also look toward opportunities that lie ahead.The challenges we face,whether in education health governance or economic development—require innovative solutions collaborative efforts I am confident that this alumni community will continue play pivotal role addressing these challenges driving progress."
He closed by encouraging ongoing cooperation between both nations through their respective communities: "Tonight is a celebration of your accomplishments,but it is also call action.Let us continue work together strengthen ties between Sierra Leone United States.Let us continue inspire next generation leaders changemakers.And let us continue build world where opportunity understanding know no bounds."
"In closing,I want thank each you contributions this partnership work you do every day make Sierra Leone world better place.To award recipients congratulations on well-deserved recognition.You are inspiration us all."
"Thank you enjoy rest wonderful evening."