Y Square POD
By YSquare Podcast
Y Square PODDec 19, 2019
Episode 40 - Relocating to Salone
Episode 40 - Relocating to Salone
In this segment of the "Y Square POD + Friends" series, Walid Joseph (Restaurant Owner) and Ajara Marie (Social Entrepreneur) join Yasmin and Yasmine to discuss tips and tricks for moving/relocating to Salone and navigating everyday life while sharing their individual stories as to what brought them back to Sweet Salone.
Check out this new episode for more insight on what it means to move or relocate to Sierra Leone.
Disclaimer: The conversations in the Y Square POD + Friends segments are in English, Krio, and sometimes Kringlish. Enjoy!
Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @ysquarepod
© Y Square POD
Episode 39: A Conversation with David Moinina Sengeh!
In this segment of "A Conversation with", Y Square POD had the pleasure to talk to our nation's Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary School Education (BSSSE) -- Dr. David Moinina Sengeh!
Minister Sengeh is also the Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) of the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI). In this episode, Minister Sengeh discusses with Y Square POD the strides his team since the enactment of the Free Education policy as well as his on going projects as a member of Government and his personal life as a rapper and fashion life. As a youth himself, Minister Sengeh highlights the challenges faced by young people and shares his vision for Sierra Leone. Check out this episode to know more!
Episode 38 - Africa Wants Better, Africa Demands Better, Africa Deserves Better
From #EndSARS in Nigeria to sexual violence surges in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Zambia, the duo discuss a handful of some of the various social issues occurring concurrently across the continent.
This episode laments on Africa’s time to demand change amidst being haunted by a colonial and imperial past while proposing possible solutions for the present and future. Listen for more and please share your thoughts 🌍
Interesting fact: Sierra Leone is home to the second drone corridor in all of Africa.
Salone proverb: Wata nor dae jomp ol
#AfricaIsTheFuture
Episode. 37 - A Conversation With: Bintu Mansaray (Behind the Doctor)
In this episode, the duo learn more about the health infrastructure from doctor and author Bintu Mansaray!
Bintu is a consulting Health doctor at Rainbo Initiative - the only center in Sierra Leone that offers probono psychosocial support and medical treatment to victims and survivors of Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV). Bintu tells Y Square POD about the challenges faced in the health system in Sierra Leone while highlighting some solutions and she shares with us her new found project -- her book; Amie and the Safe Keepers Project: Defeating the Coronavirus! Looking to contribute to children's literacy in Sierra Leone? Find out more in this episode!
This episode is proudly sponsored by Clifftech Pro.
Episode 36 - Lessons of 2020
Happy October!
In this episode, the Y Square POD duo talks about “WHAT A YEAR” 2020 has been. From reflections to lessons learned, Yasmin and Yasmine discuss the moments of opportunities for growth and gratitude the year has presented them and they suggest tips to ending the year strong. Enjoy this episode! What has the year 2020 taught you?
Interesting Fact: Travelers coming to and leaving Sierra Leone must pay $80 for a COVID-19 test.
Salone Proverb: Waetin briz don blo, e don blo
This episode is proudly sponsored by Clifftech
© Y Square POD
Episode 35 - Tourism in Salone
In the second segment of the "Y Square POD + Friends" series, Yasmin and Yasmine invite their friends Ernest Henry (Content Creator and Producer) and Aminata Kamara (Marketer and formerly at National Tourism Board) to give their take on the past, present and future outlook and perspective on tourism in Salone. Domestic tourism is relatively a new phrase and reality amidst Uncle Coro (COVID-19) but especially for Sierra Leoneans. Check out this new episode for more about what Sierra Leone has to hold for Sierra Leoneans and visitors alike.
Disclaimer: The conversations in the Y Square POD + Friends segments are in English, Krio and sometimes Kringlish. Enjoy!
This episode is proudly sponsored by Mercury International.
Episode 34 - A Conversation With Mabel Ironn Sky (Behind the Artist)
In this episode, Mabel Ironn Sky a painter and business consultant joins us! Salone is a beautiful country where we believe should be an artist’s playground. Though that may be true, artistry does come with its constraints — from economic to social acceptance which happens not just in Salone. Mabel shares her perspective on how to empower artists and amplify their voices in this not to miss episode. 😉
This episode is sponsored by Mercury International
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Episode 33 - Rape Culture in Sierra Leone (From a Survivor's Lens)
Eager to know who our guest is? You have to listen to the episode to find out and to learn more about her pragmatic approach and perspective to make Sierra Leone safer for women and girls :)
Interesting Fact: Despite Sierra Leone being historically predominantly Muslim, though very secular nowadays. Sierra Leone has only had one Muslim head of state (the late Ahmad Tejan Kabbah), all of our heads of states have been Christian.
Salone Proverb: No yu sef norto cos
Episode 32 - A Conversation With Martin Michael: Behind the Man
Episode 32: A Conversation with Martin Michael. Behind The Man
The duo was delighted to interview a fellow #SaloneTwitter member. Martin Michael is a lawyer and CEO of Mercury International.
Martin discusses with Y Square POD the instrumental role the digital age has played in business, public life, and how it has shaped our cultural dynamic. He also talks about transitioning from his professional career in law to business and entrepreneurship and stresses the importance of leaving a legacy.
Listen to learn more about Martin’s incredible journey.
This episode is sponsored by Mercury International
*© Y Square POD*
Episode 31: Dating in Salone
In the new segment "Y Square & friends", the duo invite their friends to discuss on a hot topic.
Dating Culture in Salone features Endimiyon Johnson and Mohamed Shour. In this episode, the duo along with their guests discuss the dating scene for young people primarily in Freetown, as well as tips and woes. Of course, it wouldn't be dating if ENTANGLEMENTS were not involved. Hook up culture in context to Sierra Leone is discussed as well as "underground".
Episode 30 - A Conversation with Vickie Remoe: Behind the Woman
In our 30th episode, Y Square Pod interviews a person such as ourselves — multifaceted, Sierra Leonean, and a woman!
Vickie Remoe is a marketing and communications strategist who splits her time in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and Accra, Ghana. Vickie tells us about her current project: C19 Dignity Project and the importance of controlling the narrative and pushing made in Sierra Leone content through her career of journalism and a TV show host.
Listen to her compelling story of what it means to be young, a woman, and your own boss in West Africa.
© Y Square Pod
Episode 29: Cancel Culture - Is It Necessary?
In this episode, Y Square Pod discuss the very millennial and digital age driven term "Cancel Culture". Cancel Culture is when an individual or group is virtually made irrelevant by keypad warriors when their point of view differs from a mainstream collective's own without or rarely given the opportunity to be [re]educated. The duo also highlighted circumstances where Cancel Culture is essential and what it means to be "cancelled".
Interesting Fact: Sierra Leone has amended its COVID19 curfew restrictions and uplifted domestic travel bans.
Salone proverb: If yu sabi wass yu an, yu kin it wit big pipul dem.
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Episode 28 - A Conversation with ‘Gbenga Sesan: Behind The Paradigm
*Episode 28 - A Conversation with ‘Gbenga Sesan: Behind The Paradigm*
In this episode, the duo met with and interviewed ‘Gbenga Sesan from Nigeria during his visit to Sierra Leone in March 2020.
‘Gbenga is a social entrepreneur and digital rights/tech guru. He was featured in CNN as one is the Top 10 African Tech Voices on Twitter. Learn more about his inspiring story at @ysquarepod
This episode is sponsored by C&E Solutions.
For advertisement and collaboration enquiries, email us at ysquarepod@gmail.com
© Y Square Pod
Episode 27 - Racism & Discrimination in Sierra Leone
Inspired by the recent protests and calls for racial and social justice in the United States, the duo discuss institutionalized systems of discrimination in the Sierra Leonean context and why #BlackLivesMatter is equally important to people of African descent on the continent and the world at large. They also propose an agenda for change for future generations.
The duo discuss issues on tribalism, regionalism, colorism and some forms of racism in Sierra Leone. If you're also tired of being tired, this episode is for you.
Interesting Fact: Sierra Leone's only International airport is situated in Lungi, Northern Sierra Leone and not the capital Freetown.
Proverb: Monki wok, babu it.
Episode 26 - The Rant Episode
As the title implies, the duo spend this episode ranting about what grinds their gears in Mama Salone. From direct (mis)communication/(mis)information to “you’ve put on weight” to “hi dear”, the duo do not hold back the punches in this comical episode. For those living in Sierra Leone or from Sierra Leone living abroad, this will hit home for you. And for future visitors/residents of Sierra Leone listen with an open heart and mind.
Interesting Fact: Sierra Leone has the highest deaths in the West African Sub region in Mano River Union (Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire).
Proverb: No ide yu layt unda bushel
Episode 25 - A conversation with Ngozi Cole: Behind The Pen
Y Square Pod is joined by the writer and communications specialist Ngozi Cole who talks about her love for writing, her background and everything you need to know about working in communications for the development sector. Our guest a shares useful tips on how to position yourself as a young professional. Ngozi is also the mastermind behind the online literature platform Poda Poda Stories.
Enjoy a conversation with Ngozi Cole.
Find our guest: @ngozicole
Poda Poda Stories: @podapodasl - www.poda-poda.com
Find us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @ysquarepod
Y Square Pod
Episode 24 - Faith & Religion in Sierra Leone
Episode 23 - A conversation with Trevor Stuurman: Behind The Lens
This episode is sponsored by Consult DSA.
Episode 22 - Uncle Coro(na), is this life?
S03E07 - We Answer Your Questions! feat. YSquare Pod!
In the final episode of the season, the duo answer questions they received from listeners. They reminisce on the past year piloting 3 seasons, their existing and past projects and what awaits them in the future as they transition from a podcast to a content creation collective.
Interesting fact: Leaf based dishes (*Plasas*) are popular meals in Sierra Leone.
Proverb: Put yu yai dong mek yu si yu nos
S03E06 - Transforming Freetown ft. Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE
Interesting Fact: Sierra Leone is one of the world's youngest democracies since 2007.
Salone Proverb: Put yu yai doing mek yu si yu nos.
S0E05 - What do YOU deserve? feat. The Cowfoot Prince
Interesting Fact: Sierra Leone has been inhabited for over 2500 by West African settlers.
Salone Proverb: Get get nor want. Want want nor get.
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S03E04 – A Multifaceted Woman Of STEM In Sierra Leone feat. Rakie Sesay
Guest: Rakie Sesay
Interesting Fact: Sierra Leone’s housing architecture tends to be tribal by nature.
Salone Proverb: If yu listen pan makit noise, yu nor go buy wetin yu want.
Guest socials: @thatafrogirlkiks
Y Square Pod : @ysquarepod
S03E03 - Being Intentional About The Life You Want feat Alfred Akibo-Betts
This episode features chartered accountant, tax expert and serial entrepreneur Alfred Akibo-Betts. Alfred shares his story of working in the public sector, to making his side hustle his main and venturing into the world of business and entrepreneurship. He is the co-founder of Freetown Business School.
Learn more about Alfred's story.
Interesting Fact: Whoopi Goldberg and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. have Sierra Leonean roots! :)
Salone proverb: Tok haf, lef haf.
S03E02 - Creating Social Impact Through Tech, Entrepreneurship And Agriculture feat. Morris Marah
Guests for each episode of Season 3 will join us. This Season will be dedicated to creators in Sierra Leone making an impact in the country.
S03E02 - Creating social impact in Sierra Leone through tech, entrepreneurship and agriculture feat. Morris Marah
Interesting fact: River Rokel is the longest River in Sierra Leone.
*Salone proverb:* “Push push di stop pan wi wall”.
Guest Details: @sensitechhubsl | @saful_resort_sl | www.marahfarms.com
Find us @ysquarepod on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
© Y Square Pod
S03E01 – In between continents feat. Kadija Kanu of @kk_afrique
Guests for each episode of Season 3 will join us. This Season will be dedicated to creators in Sierra Leone making an impact in the country.
S03E01 – In between Continents feat. Kadija Kanu of @kkafrique
Interesting fact: Humpback whales visit the coast of Sierra Leone every October and November.
*Salone proverb:* 'Wata weh na fo yu nor go run pass yu'.
Guest Details: www.kkafrique.com
Find us @ysquarepod on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
© Y Square Pod
S02E07 - Lessons From Sierra Leone
S02E07 - Lessons from Sierra Leone 🇸🇱
Interesting Fact: The location setting for an original 'Bounty Chocolate' TV advertisement in the 1970’s was shot on River #No.2 beach, Sierra Leone.
African Proverb: “MI NA WATASAISTON: A Nכ DE MUV. “ I am a waterside stone: I'm immoveable. - Sierra Leone.
Thanks for listening to Season 2!
We will be back with Season 3 early October!
©Y Square Pod
S02E06 - Sex & Education
S02E05 - Taking Breaks & Rainy Season
S02E04 Sababu & Nostalgia
S02E03 – Humble & Honest (The Game Episode)
S02E03 – Humble and Honest (The Game Episode)
In this episode the duo share their June affirmations before playing the game that exposes the differences in American and British English. In the theme of language, they also discuss the national language spoken in Sierra Leone (Krio) and where some of the words are derived from. Yasmin and Yasmine touch on how language and food impact culture and identity.
Interesting Fact: The year Sierra Leone gained Independence (1961) and the year Sierra Leone became a Republic (1971).
African Quote: “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” – By Nelson Mandela
Don’t forget to use #YSquarePod
S02E02 Our Entrepreneurial Journeys In Sierra Leone
S02E02 – Our Entrepreneurial Journeys in Sierra Leone
In the episode the duo discuss the pros and cons of being self-employed in Freetown Sierra Leone. We also talk about support systems, mentors, our respective businesses and the glamorization of entrepreneurship.
Interesting Fact: The flag colours and their meaning.
African Quote: “Only entrepreneurship can create opportunity where none seemingly exists” – By Tony Elumelu
Notes from episode:
AWEC – African Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative
Opportunities of Africans
Tony Elumelu Foundation
Don’t forget to use #YSquarePod
S02E01 - Travel in Africa
S01E07 - Salone Tide, Salone Trade (Salone Then, Salone Now)
S01E06 - Mediocrity Is The New Excellence
In this episode, the duo (Yasmin Metz-Johnson of @yasmin_tells and Yasmine Bilkis Ibrahim of @minabilkis) discuss mediocrity in some aspects in Salone and question why is the bare minimum is accepted and celebrated here in Sierra Leone. How it effects us and why the lack of patriotism of the nation may be one of the contributing factors to low standards alongside, politics, education and more.
Interesting Fast: The 3 Seasons in Sierra Leone
References in episode 6:
Board Houses: ‘Bod Ose’ in Krio
Bunce Island: Slave Fortress
Gola Rainforest:
Black and British: A forgotten History Documentary by David Olusunga
Sierra Eye: Sierra Leonean Magazine
Terms used:
‘The Make Do Complex”
Sycophancy
SLPP: Sierra Leone People’s Party
APC: All People’s Congress
African Proverb: “For tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.”
Follow and join the conversersation! @ysquarepod #ysquarepod