Aurora Foundation https://www.aurorafoundation.is Aurora Foundation Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:12:21 +0000 is hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/wp-content/uploads/project-overview-aurora-logo.png Aurora Foundation https://www.aurorafoundation.is 32 32 Lettie Stuart Pottery School Exhibition https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/lettie-stuart-pottery-school-exhibition-2/ Fri, 22 Mar 2024 09:31:25 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10011363 We are delighted to share the resounding success of the recent Pottery School Exhibition held at Lettie Stuart Pottery in Waterloo on March 14th. The event, hosted by Aurora Foundation, was a vibrant celebration of the remarkable progress achieved by the students of the 18-month pottery program, which commenced in November 2023.

Eight passionate individuals embarked on this creative journey, and their dedication has yielded promising results in a remarkably short time frame. Their progress stands as a testament to their relentless commitment and the exceptional guidance provided by our esteemed instructor, Guðbjörg Káradóttir.

Hailing from Iceland, Guðbjörg Káradóttir is celebrated as one of Iceland’s finest ceramic artists and teachers. Her annual collaboration with the Aurora Foundation has been instrumental in nurturing budding talents at Lettie Stuart Pottery. Her expertise and dedication have empowered the students to explore their creativity and excel in their craft.

The exhibition attracted an enthusiastic audience, including proud parents, supportive friends, officials from SADEA, and senior management representatives from Aurora Foundation. Witnessing the joy and appreciation from families as they marveled at the intricate pottery creations crafted by the students was truly heartwarming.

The event not only showcased the remarkable progress of the students but also provided them with a platform to express gratitude for the invaluable learning experience provided at Lettie Stuart Pottery. Their enthusiasm and dedication have been truly inspiring, embodying the ethos of the pottery school.

We recognize the importance of fostering a supportive community that values artistic endeavors. Initiatives like the Pottery School Exhibition serve as catalysts for the students to shine and share their passion for pottery with the world.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Guðbjörg Káradóttir for her unwavering support and expertise.

We eagerly anticipate witnessing the continued growth and success of the pottery students as they embark on their creative journey.

   

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Business Model Canvas training – IR Bootcamp https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/10011326/ Tue, 12 Mar 2024 17:14:29 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10011326 On March 12th, the Aurora Foundation Training Center buzzed with entrepreneurial energy as we hosted a dynamic Business Model Canvas training session tailored for IR Bootcamp startup businesses. Facilitated by our adept Aurora Impact Programme Manager, Mavis Madaure, the training aimed to equip participants with essential skills to bolster their marketing strategies and prepare them for investment opportunities. 

The centerpiece of the training was the Business Model Canvas. Participants delved into crafting comprehensive Business module canvases for their ventures, outlining crucial elements such as revenue streams, cost structures, and overall business framework. Through hands-on guidance and interactive sessions, each attendee meticulously crafted their canvas, honing their business acumen and refining their value propositions. 

This immersive exercise served as a pivotal step in preparing the startups for the forthcoming Pitch Day. With their business models solidified, participants are now poised to articulate their vision with clarity and conviction. Pitch Day promises to be a platform where these budding entrepreneurs will showcase their comprehensive business strategies, vying for coveted investment opportunities at the upcoming Demo Day. 

The training session not only fostered practical skills but also nurtured a vibrant community of aspiring entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration and idea exchange. Participants left invigorated and empowered, armed with newfound insights and strategies to navigate the competitive landscape of startups. 

As we look ahead to the culmination of the IR Bootcamp, we are excited to witness the transformation of innovative ideas into thriving businesses. The Aurora Foundation remains committed to nurturing entrepreneurial talent and fostering a supportive ecosystem for startups to flourish. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the exciting climax of the IR Bootcamp journey! 

 

 

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Successful compelition of ICT Webpage Development Overview Course https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/successful-compelition-of-ict-webpage-development-overview-course/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 10:10:44 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10011168 We are excited to share the successful conclusion of our recent 2-week ICT Web Development overview and outline course, finalized on February 27th at the Aurora Office Training Center.

Participants joined us on February 12th for a week-long exploration of ICT Webpage development for beginners. The Aurora training center was filled with energy as individuals from various backgrounds came together to enhance their digital skills, culminating in their graduation on the 27th.

Out of the 16 graduates, we want to highlight the outstanding performance of three individuals who completed the course with a perfect 100% percentile on their final test, showcasing their dedication and the effectiveness of our training program.

The curriculum of the course centered around practical training on WordPress dashboard customization, profile and plugin edits, utilizing custom fields, previewing and publishing techniques. These skills are essential for navigating the digital landscape and establishing a strong online presence.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates, we extend our gratitude to all participants, trainers, and supporters who contributed to the success of this initiative. Your dedication to learning and growth is truly commendable.

Stay tuned to our official site for updates on upcoming courses and initiatives aimed at empowering individuals through education. Thank you for being an integral part of the Aurora Foundation’s mission to foster digital literacy and skill development.

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Celebrating Women’s Entrepreneurship: The Inspiring Journey of Jeneba Osho Pratt Catering Services https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/celebrating-womens-entrepreneurship-the-inspiring-journey-of-jeneba-osho-pratt-catering-services/ Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:12:24 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10011365 Jeneba Osho Pratt Catering Services is a sole proprietorship business established in 2021 in the capital city of Freetown. Jeneba has always had an innate passion for the culinary arts. Her love for cooking began at a young age with inspiration from family gatherings and cultural traditions. This passion eventually led her to pursue formal culinary training, where she honed her skills and developed a unique culinary style characterised by innovative flavours and meticulous attention to detail. However, she makes local and continental food, and her catering services include preparing, delivering, and serving dishes. Jeneba Osho Pratt Catering works with clients, planning various events, from corporate lunches to wedding receptions, parties, and specialised ceremonies.

Jeneba Osho Pratt embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2020, four years ago, turning her passion for cooking into a successful catering business. Over the years, she has built a reputation for excellence, earning the trust and loyalty of a diverse clientele through her exceptional culinary creations and personalised service. She was enrolled in the Cohort 5 start-ups program at Aurora Foundation in 2023. She later progressed to the investment readiness boot camp which is meant to support and ready start-ups for business growth. Due to her significant milestones and success in the four-month Cohort 5 start-up accelerator project focusing on entrepreneurship training, she got an award for the most committed business amongst the cohort.  Her business is thriving, with a steady stream of clients and a growing service demand. She currently works with ten staff members, 6 of whom are casual workers and 4 of whom are contract staff members.

Jeneba Osho Pratt embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship, turning her passion for culinary arts into a flourishing catering business. Her journey from humble beginnings to entrepreneurial success is a testament to her unwavering dedication, resilience, and pursuit of excellence. With her culinary expertise and business acumen, Jeneba Osho Pratt is poised to elevate her Catering business to success, empowered by the knowledge and resources gained from the Investment Readiness Bootcamp.

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Successful Completion of Aurora Foundation’s ICT Intermediate Course https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/successful-completion-of-aurora-foundations-ict-intermediate-course/ Wed, 28 Feb 2024 12:02:53 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10011165 We are thrilled to share the success of our recently concluded 2-week ICT Intermediate course, which wrapped up on February 27th at the Aurora Office Training Center. This achievement resonates with the Aurora spirit, boasting a commendable 100% attendance rate.

Eager students from diverse walks of life joined us on February 12th for an enriching journey into the realm of ICT for intermediate users. The Aurora training center was abuzz with enthusiasm as participants immersed themselves in the comprehensive program, culminating in their graduation on the 27th.

Out of the 22 participants, we proudly announce that 19 individuals successfully completed the course, showcasing their commitment to advancing their ICT skills. Remarkably, two participants excelled with a perfect 100% percentile on their final test, a testament to their dedication and the effectiveness of our training.

The training curriculum focused on intermediate-level courses for Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint, providing participants with practical skills essential for professional and personal development.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates, we extend our gratitude to the students, trainers, and everyone who contributed to the success of this program. Your commitment to learning and growth is truly inspiring.

Stay tuned to our official site for updates on upcoming initiatives and opportunities. Thank you for being an integral part of the Aurora Foundation’s mission to empower individuals through education.

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Empowering Startups: Aurora Foundation’s Success Story from IRB Operations Management Training https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/empowering-startups-aurora-foundations-success-story-from-irc-operations-management-training/ Thu, 15 Feb 2024 11:22:58 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10011228 We are thrilled to share the success story of Aurora Foundation’s recent Operations Management Training, a key component of the Investment Readiness Bootcamp. On February 12, we collaborated with Elba Limited to provide startups with valuable insights into operations management, tailoring the training to meet the unique needs of each business.

The startups immersed in a transformative experience, receiving customized insights on operations management precisely aligned with their business needs. The session, led by Edleen B. Elba, Managing Director of Elba Limited, delivered an invaluable session to the aspiring startups.

The IRB Operations Management Training provided startups with practical guidance and industry-specific knowledge. The positive feedback from participants highlights the effectiveness of the training in helping them navigate operational challenges and optimize their processes.

In addition to the comprehensive training, the IRB bootcamp includes a unique feature: linking startups with mentors. This networking opportunity connects startups with mentors both within Sierra Leone and abroad, enabling them to cultivate skills and industry insights from experts in their respective sectors.

We are delighted to share a remarkable story from the bootcamp: Chernor Issa Jalloh from CIJ Digital Hub Logistics Limited had the chance to meet his longtime mentor, Olga, from Iceland. Olga, who shares the same sector as Jalloh, has been a steadfast supporter and mentor. Not only has she provided guidance, but Olga has also generously contributed resources to Jalloh’s business, including projectors, keyboards, monitors, and other tech items that will significantly support his ventures.

This exemplifies the power of mentorship and collaborative initiatives. Aurora Foundation remains committed to fostering innovation and empowering startups on their journey to success.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

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Sweet Salone Impact Assessment 2023 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/sweet-salone-impact-assessment-2023/ Mon, 12 Feb 2024 10:51:53 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10011290 We are excited to present the impact assessment of Sweet Salone for the year 2023. This year has witnessed significant strides in our mission to empower local artisans and foster sustainable practices in Sierra Leone.

Sweet Salone experienced two primary areas of growth in 2023: growth in the production of our core catalogue of goods, especially by Lettie Stuart Pottery center and Brama Town, as well as recommencing work on the production of pillows and blankets that incorporates three distinct sets of artisans along the production line.

Production in the two largest artisan groups expanded substantially in 2023. Notably, the Lettie Stuart Pottery exhibited an impressive 50% increase in total production compared to 2022. Brama Town, too, witnessed an astounding 286% surge in production. This growth in production reflects the growing demand for the Sweet Salone products, and therefore, the growing impact on the lives and livelihoods of our artisans and their families.

In 2023, the number of artisans working with Sweet Salone expanded by 22%, showcasing the growing influence of our artisan community. Notably we resumed work on Hugdetta pillows and throws, after few years of pausing these items. The cotton pillows and throws incorporate the natural dying of cotton by a team of skilled traditional dye artisans, country cloth weaving by Ibrahim Kallon, and stitching into the final form by tailor Foday Thoronka.

Please click here. for a detailed background on each of these artisans and to see the full details of the 2023 Sweet Salone Impact Assessment.

Thank you for being a vital part of our journey towards sustainable empowerment. Your support continues to inspire us to reach new heights and make a lasting impact in Sierra Leone.

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February 2024 Aurora Annual Retreat Recap https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/february-2024-aurora-annual-retreat-recap/ Thu, 08 Feb 2024 16:23:18 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10011077 Greetings Aurora Family,

We are thrilled to share the incredible moments from our 2024 Aurora Foundation retreat, held at the breathtaking Lux Villa compound. On February 2, the entire Aurora team, including our dedicated members from Iceland, gathered for a day of reflection, planning, and camaraderie.

Nestled in the serene ambiance of Lux Villa, the retreat provided the ideal setting for us to reconnect and strengthen our bonds. Against the backdrop of nature’s beauty, we delved into a comprehensive review of our 2023 achievements and set our sights on the exciting journey that lies ahead in 2024.

The highlight of the day was our one-day work retreat, where every member actively participated in defining their individual goals, aligning personal aspirations with the collective vision of Aurora. The Lux Villa’s inspiring surroundings fostered creativity and collaboration, creating a conducive environment for meaningful discussions.

Team building exercises added a touch of fun and excitement, reinforcing the Aurora spirit. Laughter echoed as we celebrated life the Aurora way, appreciating the diversity and strength that each team member brings to our collective mission.

As we return to our respective roles with renewed energy and focus, let’s carry the spirit of unity and purpose forward. The 2024 Aurora journey is set to be extraordinary, and together, we shall continue to illuminate the path towards positive change.

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Investment readiness bootcamp https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/imofa-2-investment-readiness-bootcamp/ Mon, 05 Feb 2024 10:07:56 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10010993 Greeting!

It is our pleasure to share an exciting update on the Aurora Foundation’s impactful endeavor – the Investment Readiness Program. This second installment, executed in collaboration with the Icelandic Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is a testament to our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and propelling the growth of Cohort 5 startup businesses in Sierra Leone.

In June 2023, the second cycle of the Investment Readiness Startup Growth Program embarked on a transformative journey, providing intensive training and coaching sessions to 14 diverse startup businesses representing various sectors. The program aims to equip these budding entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed for early-stage success, fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability.

The cornerstone of this journey has been the Investment Readiness Bootcamp – a comprehensive series of in-class sessions aided with M&E visits that have laid the foundation for our entrepreneurs’ growth. These sessions commenced with a deep dive into „Understanding the Investment Readiness Bootcamp and its Outcomes,“ setting the stage for a purposeful entrepreneurial journey.

Participants engaged in specialized sessions covering crucial topics such as „Business Regulatory and Statutory“ essentials, ensuring a solid understanding of the legal landscape that underpins business operations. The program also focused on „Product Readiness Training,“ empowering startups to fine-tune their offerings to meet market demands effectively.

Financial acumen is key to sustainable business growth, and the „Financial Management Training“ provided participants with the tools to make informed decisions for their ventures. „Human Resource Management“ and „Marketing for Entrepreneurs“ rounded out the curriculum, arming our cohort with essential skills for managing and promoting their businesses successfully.

In the spirit of transparency and continuous improvement, participants shared their honest feedback on the training sessions and discussed the practical applicability of the knowledge gained in their unique business contexts. This open dialogue has been instrumental in shaping a program that meets the dynamic needs of our entrepreneurs.

As the program progresses, the focus shifts to the remaining in-class sessions on „Operations Management Training“ and „Creativity, Innovation, and Collaboration for Start-ups.“ These modules aim to provide a holistic understanding of business operations, fostering creativity and innovation as cornerstones of entrepreneurial success.

Looking ahead, our entrepreneurs are gearing up for the highly anticipated Pitch Competition. This event will see each startup refining their business models and preparing compelling pitches for potential investors, applying the wealth of knowledge gathered throughout the program. An intensive pitch competition will follow, culminating in the selection of the top 5 startups that have demonstrated promise through their pitches.

The journey reaches its zenith with the Demo Day, where the selected startups will present their refined business models to an expert panel of judges, business influencers, and industry thought leaders. This event not only offers recognition for their efforts but also provides a valuable opportunity to secure funding and propel their businesses to new heights.

For more information on the Aurora Foundation and the Investment Readiness Program, please stay tuned to our official website and the Aurora Impacts social media pages [https://www.facebook.com/aurora.impact/] and [https://www.instagram.com/aurora.impact/?ref=d5o1mk9mfafd&hl=es] . Your support and interest in our mission are crucial as we work together to empower Sierra Leonean entrepreneurs and catalyze sustainable economic growth.

Thank you for being an integral part of this transformative journey.

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A remarkable 3 day acting workshop https://www.aurorafoundation.is/frettir/nr/a-remarkable-3-day-acting-workshop/ Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:04:57 +0000 https://www.aurorafoundation.is/?p=10011075 Greetings, theater enthusiasts!

We’re thrilled to share the exciting highlights from the recent 3-day acting workshop that concluded with immense energy and applause. The workshop, hosted by the dynamic Elva Maria Birgisdottir, one of the distinguished visitors from Iceland, was a whirlwind of creativity and passion.

For the past four weeks, Freetown, Sierra Leone, has been a melting pot of cultural exchange and artistic exploration, thanks to the talented group of Icelandic visitors. The 3-day acting workshop marked the grand finale of their enriching stay.

The workshop was a burst of youthful enthusiasm, with vibrant participants eagerly soaking in the wisdom and techniques shared by Elva Maria. From intense character development sessions to improvisation exercises, every moment was a celebration of the art of acting.

As the participants honed their skills, they formed a close-knit community, fostering connections that transcended borders. The camaraderie reached its peak on the final day with a captivating showcase,As we bid farewell to our Icelandic friends, we express our gratitude for sharing their expertise and leaving an indelible mark on the local acting community. Until the next cultural rendezvous, let the spirit of creativity continue to shine bright!

Stay tuned for more artistic adventures!

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