By Sahrfoa Matturie
The Association of Mass Communicators at the University of Makeni has honoured Charles Champion as one of the “25 Most Outstanding Communicators of 2026” during its annual Dinner and Awards Night held at the university.
The event brought together students, media practitioners, academics, and institutional representatives to celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to communication, media practice, and public information service in Sierra Leone.
Speaking after receiving the award, Champion described the recognition as a testament to his commitment to bridging information gaps, raising public awareness, and ensuring citizens remain informed on national and community issues.
He noted that the honour reflects not only his personal dedication, but also the collective support of colleagues and institutional leaders who have contributed to his professional growth.
Champion expressed appreciation to his superiors, particularly Hon. Chernor Bah and the Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, for their leadership and the opportunities they provided him within the communication sector.
According to him, their support has played a major role in shaping a career he deeply values.
He also thanked his colleagues and professional associates, emphasizing that their encouragement and collaboration contributed greatly to his achievement. He further highlighted the importance of mentorship and professional solidarity within the communication industry.
A notable part of his remarks focused on his appreciation for the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, Mr. Manika, whom he described as both a friend and a brother.
Champion said such relationships within the journalism and communication community continue to strengthen professionalism and ethical standards in the field.
The awards ceremony forms part of the University of Makeni Association of Mass Communicators’ broader efforts to promote excellence among emerging and established communicators while encouraging responsible media engagement in national development.
Champion concluded his remarks on an optimistic note, stating that there is “so much more ahead” for communicators dedicated to informing and empowering the public.
The event is widely regarded as an important platform for recognizing communication talents and reinforcing the role of media practitioners in shaping public discourse in Sierra Leone.
