By Roving Reporter Media House
Positive energy, colour, glamour, beautiful cultural vibes and the warmth of sisters in unity welcomed one to the Unique United Sisters’ annual Africana Ball held on August 23rd, 2025; the event brought together members of the diaspora community in New Jersey and surrounding states to celebrate their heritage and make positive impacts.
As soon as guests stepped into Shagun Banquet Hall, they were welcomed by the vibrant thematic atmosphere of culture and unity that radiated positive rhythm throughout the hall. Everyone in the room felt immersed in African vibes as drumbeats hit everyone’s ears in the powerful lyrics of Afrobeat music by DJ Romantic.
Looking regal in her Africana attire, Vice President of Unique United Sisters Mrs Aminata Amara welcomed guests and introduced MCs, Mrs Kadiatu Matilda Pratt and Mr James Kargbo. She praised them for being with the organisation since its formation and their expertise.
The ballroom shimmered with energy when Mrs Mariama Fadika Kallon, President of the Unique United Sisters, led members of the association to the dance floor, setting the tone for a night of unity and celebration. Guests then joined in the fun.
The keynote speaker for the night was the former chairman of the SLPPNA New Jersey Chapter, Mr Henry Stevens, who was introduced by Ms Mattie Kallon. In his well-received speech, Mr Stevens spoke about the importance of the diaspora community’s support in developing Sierra Leone. He also talked about the need for community leadership and how each and every one of us can play a role in making a positive difference.
But the true heart of the event was its fundraising initiative. Led by Ms Mattie Kallon, the goal was to support children in Sierra Leone through education and health programmes. Contributions poured in from various organisations and individuals, including members of both the SLPP and APC political parties—demonstrating a rare moment of bipartisan unity in support of humanitarian goals. Humanitarian efforts had always united both sides of Sierra Leone’s political spectrum for historic moments in the diaspora.
At the end of it all, Mrs Mariama Fadika Kallon thanked all the guests for their support after a one-of-a-kind entrance with her husband by her side. The hall resonated with applause and a collective sense of achievement.
Guests continued to revel in the night’s celebrations as they enjoyed each other’s company and the beautiful African-themed dance ensembles. It was an amazing evening with great company and beautiful African vibes and culture, as well as a night of giving to those in need of support. The Unique United Sisters have once again set the bar high with their Africana Ball 2025.
One cannot report on this event without mentioning the executive members, who had worked tirelessly:
1. Mrs Mariama Fadika Timbo Jalloh Kallon – President
2. Mrs Aminata Mabondo Tarawally Amara – Vice President 1
3. Mrs Asiatu Bah – Vice 2
4. Mrs Esther Conteh – Secretary General
5. Madam Cecilia Mustapha – Financial Secretary
6. Mrs Mariama Bassie Konjor – Outreach Coordinator
7. Mrs Aminata Kaloko Kamara – Organising
8. Ms Zanaib Sesay – Deputy Secretary General
9. Ms Mattie Kallon-PRO
The Roving Reporter was on site to capture the elegance, emotion, and impact of the evening. From the arrivals to the final dance, the Africana Ball proved to be more than just a social gathering—it was a powerful statement of solidarity and service to humankind.
Roving Reporter
8/26/2025
