At Aurora Foundation, our Sweet Salone project has long been committed to nurturing the incredible talents within Sierra Leone’s artisan communities. One of our proudest collaborations has been with the vibrant Lumley Arts and Crafts community — a collective of skilled artisans bringing Sierra Leonean culture to life through their craft.
Among these talented individuals is Baindu Amara, whose story exemplifies the transformative power of partnership, perseverance, and creativity. Baindu grew up in the heart of Lumley, helping her mother craft necklaces, bracelets, and keychains while balancing her education. Five years ago, she connected with Aurora Foundation, and since then, her journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
Through our continued collaboration, Baindu has supplied a wide range of handmade crafts for the Aurora Foundation shop. Her artistry and entrepreneurial spirit have not only earned her recognition but also enabled her to grow her business from just one store to four stores. Baindu didn’t stop there — she self-funded her university education and recently graduated with a degree in Public Administration from the Institute of Public Administration and Management.
Today, Baindu stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity. Her goal is to further elevate Sierra Leonean arts and crafts on the global stage, showcasing the depth, beauty, and uniqueness of our local heritage.
We are proud to stand alongside Baindu and many others like her, as we continue to build bridges between Sierra Leonean artisans and international markets.
