On 10 June 2026, Aurora House welcomed entrepreneurs, partners, and guests for Aurora Foundation’s 2026 Startup Accelerator Demo Day, marking the culmination of a year-long journey of learning, mentorship, and business growth.
The day began with a pitching competition, where six entrepreneurs from the cohort of 17 participants were selected to present their businesses before a distinguished jury comprising the Icelandic Ambassador Ásdís Bjarnadóttir, FUR Sierra Leone Country Director Joseph Cole, and Aurora Foundation’s Executive Director, Regina Bjarnadóttir. Each entrepreneur presented a scalable business solution addressing challenges in Sierra Leone, with ventures ranging from agriculture and food processing to fashion and financial inclusion. Following each presentation, the jury engaged the finalists with thoughtful questions, giving them the opportunity to further demonstrate the strength and potential of their businesses.
In the afternoon, the event opened to invited guests as all 17 entrepreneurs showcased their businesses through exhibition booths featuring their products, services, and promotional materials. Representatives from the Embassy of Iceland, British High Commission, Embassy of Ireland, SLADEA, Freetown City Council, Stakeholders, Partners and government representatives explored the displays, engaged with the entrepreneurs, and celebrated the progress made throughout the programme.
As guests gathered on the balcony of the Aurora House, anticipation grew ahead of the announcement of the pitching competition winners.
Lucy Pessima, CEO and Founder of WANASALA THO-KIOLI Ltd, was awarded first place, receiving a $5,000 cash prize generously sponsored by FUR Sierra Leone. Theresa Mbomaya, Founder and CEO of Tee’s Apparel, and Andre Williams, Co-founder of True Value Farms SL Ltd, were recognised as joint second-place winners, each receiving US$2,500.
Aurora Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to the Embassy of Iceland in Freetown, FUR Sierra Leone, members of the jury, and all partners and guests whose presence contributed to the success of the event. Their continued support helps create opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow innovative businesses and contribute to Sierra Leone’s economic development.
The 2026 Startup Accelerator Demo Day was more than a showcase of business ideas. It celebrated a year of perseverance, learning, and innovation, while reaffirming Aurora Foundation’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses and create lasting impact.
Want to learn more about this year’s pitch winners and their businesses? Click here https://www.aurorafoundation.is/wp-content/uploads/Pitch-Winners–scaled.png
