A New Kind of Homecoming: Building with Purpose in Sierra Leone

There’s a growing movement among Sierra Leoneans abroad — not just to “go back,” but to build forward. In a recent conversation between two Sierra Leonean-Americans, one story stood out: a hospitality professional who’s returning to Freetown to build a boutique hotel named after her mother.

After more than a decade in the hotel industry, she wants to create something missing from many travel experiences. In this space, travellers feel fully welcome, where service feels personal, and where Sierra Leoneans themselves can take pride in ownership.

Meet Mariam Bah: A Sierra Leonean-American military brat turned entrepreneur, building AC2 Hotel (named after her mother) in Freetown. Her mission? Luxury tourism that benefits locals—not just foreigners. She calls it responsible tourism — building with intention, fair pay, and respect for local culture. Her goal isn’t just comfort, but contribution: to create jobs, train staff, and show that luxury can be ethical too.

The conversation also touched on the realities. Doing business in Sierra Leone takes patience, persistence, and good partners. But there’s a strong network of returnees and local entrepreneurs helping each other make the process smoother — a quiet but powerful community shaping Sierra Leone’s future.

As she puts it, “There’s an opportunity in Sierra Leone — not just to visit, but to build something that lasts.”

Sierra Leone doesn’t need grand speeches. It needs people who will do the work – fairly, visibly, and with pride. That’s how hospitality becomes a national calling card.

— With appreciation from the GO-FOR-GOLD Club Team

Insights and perspectives from leaders shaping Sierra Leone’s investment future.