Today, we were to opportune tp organize a drug education forum with pupils in Waterloo.. This was done with the lovely hands of our coalition the Compassion for Soul Ministries. This team is focused on youth empowerment, children’s welfare, community engagements, advocacy, etc.

The forum was held at the Jeffery Secondary School in Waterloo. The session began with an introduction to the harmful effects of drug abuse, tailored to the local context. We discussed common misconceptions and the reality of substance addiction, emphasizing the impact on health, education, and social relationships. Many students shared stories of friends or family affected by drug abuse, highlighting the urgency of the issue in their communities.

One of the most poignant moments was when a young man bravely spoke about her own experience with peer pressure to try drugs. His honesty sparked a candid discussion about strategies to resist such pressures and seek help if needed. It was evident that these discussions were not just informative but also empowering for the students, giving them tools to make informed choices.

We also addressed the role of education and community support in preventing drug abuse. The students expressed a strong desire for more interactive workshops and ongoing support systems within their schools. This highlighted the need for sustained efforts beyond a single forum.

Overall, the forum was a success in fostering open dialogue and equipping young people with knowledge and resilience against drug abuse. It reinforced my belief in the power of education and community engagement to address complex social issues like substance abuse, particularly in underserved areas like Freetown. I look forward to seeing how these discussions continue to empower and protect Sierra Leone’s youth in the future.