12/01/2026
Ballanta Academy of Music Honours Malakai Bayoh
By Eagleville
The Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts (BAMPA) on Thursday, 8 January 2026, honoured internationally acclaimed young vocalist Malakai Bayoh at a special ceremony held at the Ballanta Academy in Freetown.
The event attracted notable figures from the music and creative arts industry. It was graced by Double King, a voice tutor at the academy and music director; Pastor Jeremiah Sesay; other members of BAMPA; and celebrated Sierra Leonean artist Drizilik. The highlight of the occasion was Malakai’s moving performance of Ave Maria, which earned him warm applause and admiration from the audience.
Speaking at the ceremony, Magdalene Bayoh, Malakai’s mother, gave a detailed account of her son’s journey into music, describing it as one that began unexpectedly.
According to her, Malakai initially worked as a photographer and videographer for his elder sister, who was already performing at schools and public events. “She used to sing in schools and other gatherings, and Malakai would serve as her photographer and videographer. That was what he did until he gradually became interested in singing,” she explained.
She revealed that the first song Malakai learned was 7 Years by Lukas Graham. After noticing his natural ability, she encouraged him to join the church choir. His talent soon became evident when he performed his first solo at a BCC Christmas Special, where he stood out remarkably among other performers.
From that point, Malakai’s career began to grow rapidly. He started performing on various platforms locally and internationally and later appeared in a number of film and television productions, including projects associated with Netflix. He is also expected to feature in an upcoming animated movie, further showcasing his versatility as a young performer.
Magdalene disclosed that Malakai’s growing reputation attracted invitations from major international talent platforms, including America’s Got Talent and Britain’s Got Talent. “Both shows invited him to audition, but I chose Britain’s Got Talent. That decision proved right, as Malakai received the Golden Buzzer from Simon Cowell, a moment that brought global recognition to his talent,” she said.
She emphasized that while she provided guidance and support, Malakai’s success is largely the result of his own passion, discipline, and determination. “He has genuine passion for singing and pursued it wholeheartedly. I tried my best to support him, but he truly did well for himself,” she added.
Magdalene also paid tribute to Dr. Julius Spencer, Chairman of BAMPA, noting that she herself is one of many Sierra Leoneans who have benefited from his mentorship in acting and theatre. “Dr. Spencer made this journey easier for my family. His mentorship brought us this far, both directly and indirectly. I am extremely proud of him, and my very first job in life came through him,” she said.
In his address, Dr. Julius Spencer congratulated Malakai on his achievements, describing him as a global superstar for his age. He advised the young singer to always combine talent with discipline and consistency. “Talent must go hand in hand with discipline and consistency, and I see those qualities in you, Malakai. Do not lose them. Sierra Leone is your country, and the world should know it. Keep making us proud and showing that talent truly pays,” Dr. Spencer said.
In his response, Malakai expressed heartfelt gratitude to BAMPA and the people of Sierra Leone for the honour accorded him. “I am very happy to be honoured in my homeland, and I am excited to be in Sierra Leone,” he said. He noted that he began singing at the age of seven, inspired by his sister, for whom he once worked as a photographer and videographer.
He also appreciated BAMPA for its efforts in nurturing talents in Sierra Leone.
Located at 27 Liverpool Street, Freetown, BAMPA has long been recognized as a hub for talent development, offering instruction in instruments such as piano, guitar, flute, violin, trumpet, and voice training. Over the years, it has trained many musicians who now serve as performers, teachers, and cultural ambassadors both at home and abroad. The academy has nurtured numerous students who have gone on to become celebrated musicians, including household names such as Drizilik and Rozay, among others.
On Friday, November 8, 2024, BAMPA received formal accreditation from the National Council for Technical, Vocational, and Other Academic Awards (NCTVA). This landmark achievement grants the academy the authority to award certificates that are nationally and internationally recognized in Sierra Leone, enhancing its standing as an institution dedicated to cultural and artistic development.
BAMPA’s academic offerings have traditionally focused on music, with students earning qualifications from esteemed UK bodies such as the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) and the Music Teachers Board (MTB). However, the accreditation expands BAMPA’s scope, enabling it to introduce new courses in Dance, Theatre Arts, and Filmmaking.
Since its inception, BAMPA has been instrumental in cultivating local talent and preserving West African music and dance traditions.
Beyond academics, BAMPA contributes vibrantly to Sierra Leone’s arts scene through concerts, festivals, and competitions that draw diverse audiences and foster a deeper appreciation for the performing arts. As a hub of creativity and innovation, the academy blends indigenous and international music, empowering students with practical skills and preparing them for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in the arts.
Through hands-on training and a strong commitment to artistic excellence, BAMPA remains a shining example of cultural preservation and creative expression in Sierra Leone.
