The purpose of this Sierra Leone MySpace is to create an interactive resource about the Republic of Sierra Leone: it's past, it's present and it's future.
At this point in history, Sierra Leone is most known because of the devastating decade-long civil war that took place there in the 1990's. In popular culture, Sierra Leone's civil war was the backdrop for the Hollywood motion picture "The Blood Diamond" which starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Djimon Hounsou. The film was based on the award winning documentary "Cry Freetown" by Sierra Leonean journalist Sorious Samura Sierra Leone is also one of the countries to be visited by UN Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie on her first, transformational trip to West Africa.
But there is another, lesser known history of Sierra Leone. A history of achievement. This small costal nation had the distinction of being a regional center of learning during the first half of the last century. It was also the first West African country to have an institute of higher learning: Fourah Bay College. Sadly, poor leadership led to social and economic decline. However, with two successful democratic elections under it's belt, Sierra Leone is shaping up to regain her former glory.
As was illustrated in "The Blood Diamond", Sierra Leone is famous for it's natural resources especially rare minerals like gold and diamonds. Sierra Leone produced the third largest diamond ever found, The Star of Sierra Leone.
The greatest wealth in Sierra Leone are it's citizens. They are heartfelt, hard working and determined to build a better future for their great nation.
Sierra Leone is still a young country, after all, it has only been independent for less than 50 years. The future is bright and full of possibility. There is much to be done, and it is our belief that this great people will rise to the challenge.
