Scaling nature-based solutions for climate resilient infrastructure

Role: Research assistant, Sierra Leone
Project: Assessing the financial feasibility of interconnected minigrids in a peri-urban community in Sierra Leone
Affiliation: Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre
ORCID ID: N/A
Email: sjtarawalie@gmail.com 

John Sheka Tarawalie is a journalist by profession with over 15 years of experience in the field. He studied Mass Communication at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, specialising in print media. John is also a highly experienced data collector.

Within the African Nature Futures Lab, he assisted as an intern through the Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre with a study examining the financial feasibility of solar mini-grids. His responsibilities included conducting interviews, undertaking transect walks, and translating from English to Krio and vice versa. During this work, he conducted interviews with a range of stakeholders, including representatives from the UN, the EU, and the Government of Sierra Leone.

At present, John is participating in a three-month survey as a Team Leader. The survey, titled the Sierra Leone Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment, is led by the National Public Health Agency in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone, the United States Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, and ICAP Global Health at Colombia University. Outside of work, he is active in community service and enjoys exploring ideas in public policy, sustainable development, and technology. He is also engaged in knowledge sharing, helping colleagues expand their capabilities and confidence, through mentorship. 

A devoted advocate for inclusive development, John prioritises initiatives that create durable social and economic value. He engages stakeholders with empathy and respect, fostering environments where diverse perspectives inform stronger decisions. In the future, he values partnerships that emphasise integrity, innovation, collective action and sustainable outcomes across local and global contexts for lasting societal benefit.