By Foday Moriba Conteh

In what is being hailed as a groundbreaking moment for Sierra Leone, celebrated journalist and reality TV personality Joy Gborie on Sunday, April 20, 2025, concluded an extraordinary 168-hour interview marathon in a bold attempt to set a new Guinness World Record.

The seven-day event, which began on April 14 at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, saw Joy Gborie tirelessly engage with over 100 guests drawn from diverse walks of life, including media, governance, academia, entrepreneurship, entertainment and hospitality.

Her attempt aims to shatter the existing world record of 55 hours and 24 seconds, currently held by Nigerian media entrepreneur Clara Chizoba Kronborg, who earned the title in Marbella, Spain, in March 2024.

“This is the loudest conversation in Sierra Leone,” Joy Gborie proclaimed to a cheering crowd after completing the final interview. “We did this for Sierra Leone to bring all hands on deck. I am happy and proud to put my country on the map for global recognition.”

Among the high-profile personalities interviewed were Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh and Freetown’s Mayor, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE, both of whom praised the bold initiative as a beacon of inspiration and resilience.

The event drew widespread public interest, with many Sierra Leoneans expressing pride in Joy Gborie's attempt. Crowds gathered at the venue and followed online streams to witness what many described as a defining cultural moment for the country.

“I don’t know how she did it, but this woman just proved that Sierra Leoneans can achieve anything,” said Mariatu Kargbo, a university student. “She spoke for all of us and gave us hope.”

“I was so inspired,” said Samuel Bockarie, a young entrepreneur who attended one of the sessions. “Her energy, her consistency; it’s something we can all learn from. It was not just about interviews; it was about unity and elevating Sierra Leone.”

Beyond the world record goal, the marathon served as a platform to highlight the achievements and challenges of Sierra Leoneans across sectors. Joy Gborie used her platform to spotlight youth leaders, unsung heroes, women change makers and entrepreneurs driving change across the country.

“This was more than just an attempt to break a record,” said media analyst Ibrahim Sankoh. “It was a national dialogue, a showcase of Sierra Leonean excellence and a moment of national pride.”

Joy Gborie’s team has submitted the necessary documentation and footage to Guinness World Records for verification. The review process typically takes several weeks, but anticipation is already building across the country.

If confirmed, Joy Gborie will not only etch her name in history but also become the first Sierra Leonean to hold this particular world record. Until then, Sierra Leone celebrates her as a champion of national pride and perseverance. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/joy-gborie-concludes-168-hour-interview-marathon-in-bid-for-guinness-world-record/