Breaking Barriers in Engineering: Christiana Isatu Kanu’s Journey to the Top of Bureh Beach Project

In a field where women are often underrepresented, Ing. Christiana Isatu Kanu is forging a path of excellence, resilience, and innovation. As the only female engineer on-site at the Bureh Beach Project, she is not just overseeing the transformation of one of Sierra Leone’s most scenic coastal destinations – she is shattering gender norms and inspiring a new generation of female engineers.

The Making of an Engineer

Christiana’s journey into engineering began at Annie Walsh Memorial Secondary School, where she cultivated a deep love for mathematics and science. Determined to break into the male-dominated world of engineering, she enrolled at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.
Her first major breakthrough came during her final year when she secured an internship with Absolute Barrkee Industries, the lead contractor for the Bureh Beach Project, a large-scale World Bank-funded initiative under the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP). From the moment she stepped onto the site, Christiana knew she was where she belonged.

Rising Through the Ranks

Unlike many interns who observe from the sidelines, Christiana dove headfirst into the project’s complex engineering demands. She quickly distinguished herself by mastering construction materials, methodologies, and technical site management. Her relentless work ethic and sharp problem-solving skills did not go unnoticed. Within a short time, she was entrusted with supervisory responsibilities, surpassing even some of her more experienced colleagues.
Her transition from an intern to a part-time site engineer while still completing her studies was a remarkable feat. By the time she graduated, she had secured a full-time role and had become an integral part of the Bureh Beach Project team.

Building More Than Infrastructure

As the Site Engineer for Absolute Barrkee Industries, Christiana plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Bureh Beach Project is executed to the highest standards. This transformative development includes:
•⁠ ⁠A 420-meter wooden boardwalk along the beach, offering breathtaking views.
•⁠ ⁠A 60-meter jetty, enhancing access for tourists and fishermen.
•⁠ ⁠A 32-space car park and three timber market sheds, creating economic opportunities for local vendors.
•⁠ ⁠A retaining wall to reclaim land eroded by the rains, protecting the coastline.
•⁠ ⁠A rigid pavement road (0.18 km) to improve accessibility.
•⁠ ⁠A Surf Club structure, further positioning Bureh Beach as a top surfing destination in West Africa.
•⁠ ⁠Additional facilities such as community toilets and boreholes to improve local infrastructure.

Beyond her technical expertise, Christiana is responsible for managing the project’s Environmental, Health, Safety, and Social (EHSS) policies and ensuring compliance with the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP). She is at the forefront of worker safety, gender inclusion, and social safeguards, ensuring a work environment free from risks such as gender-based violence and harassment.

A Force to Reckon With

Despite being the only female engineer on-site, Christiana commands the respect of the 60+ male workers she is coordinating. According to Ing. Saidu Conteh, SLEDP’s Project Engineer, Christiana exhibits an unmatched level of energy, leadership, and confidence, qualities essential for managing large-scale infrastructure projects.

“Engineering is not just about knowledge; it’s about resilience, strength, and problem-solving. Christiana embodies all of these qualities,” says Ing. Conteh. “She coordinates an entire team of men, overseeing various construction activities, ensuring deadlines are met, and maintaining quality control—all while setting a powerful example for women in STEM.”

Redefining the Future for Women in Engineering
Christiana’s journey proves that engineering is not just for men—it is for anyone with passion, determination, and skill. She has embraced the physical, mental, and technical challenges of the field with grace and grit, proving that women can and should take up space in civil engineering.
Her story is an inspiration to young girls across Sierra Leone who dream of building, designing, and innovating. She is a trailblazer, a mentor, and a game changer—a woman helping to shape the future of Sierra Leone’s tourism and coastal infrastructure while proving that women can excel anywhere, even in the toughest of fields.
As Bureh Beach evolves into a premier hub for adventure and relaxation, Christiana stands tall, knowing she played a key role in its success.

Her advice to young women

“Never be afraid to pursue your dreams, no matter how male-dominated the field may seem. Engineering is for those who dare to create and innovate. If you have the passion, go for it and never look back.”