Our Background
The story behind the Danielsen Center — a legacy of peace, compassion and service to communities in Sierra Leone.
A Centre Founded on a Legacy of Peace
The Danielsen Center for Nonviolent Communication and Development (DCNCD–Sierra Leone) was founded by the late Gert Skoczowsky-Danielsen and his team in Sierra Leone with a vision of promoting peace, nonviolent communication, youth development and community transformation.
Gert Skoczowsky-Danielsen dedicated much of his life to the people of Sierra Leone — a country that has experienced tremendous resilience in the face of significant challenges. He believed deeply that nonviolent communication was not merely an interpersonal skill but a societal necessity — a tool for healing, reconciliation and sustainable development.
Following his passing, colleagues, family and community partners came together to ensure that his vision and legacy would continue. The Danielsen Center was established to honour that commitment and to carry forward the work he began.
Gert Skoczowsky-Danielsen
In Memoriam — Founding Figure of DCNCD–Sierra Leone
Gert Skoczowsky-Danielsen's belief in the power of communication, empathy and human connection continues to inspire the work of DCNCD. The centre was established in his name to preserve his legacy and continue programs for young people, vulnerable communities and those working toward peace in Sierra Leone and across Africa.
* Additional biographical information and photography will be added when provided by the family.
Centre Opened in April 2026
The official opening of the Danielsen Center took place in April 2026 in Makeni Town, Northern Province, Sierra Leone — marking the formal beginning of DCNCD's public programmes and its presence in the community.
Based at 23 Soldier Street in Makeni Town, the centre serves as a hub for training, dialogue, youth programmes, community engagement and the coordination of national and international partnerships.
Important Milestones
71 Youth Leaders Trained
A foundational training milestone: 71 youth leaders received training in nonviolent communication in December 2025, building the core of a new generation of peace advocates.
65 Youths Trained in Freetown
DCNCD expanded its reach to the capital, training 65 young people in Freetown in nonviolent communication principles, conflict management and empathic interaction.
85 Youths Trained in Makeni
In Makeni Town, DCNCD's base, 85 youths participated in training programmes covering communication skills, self-awareness, relationship building and community development.
Official Opening of the Centre
The Danielsen Center for Nonviolent Communication and Development officially opened at 23 Soldier Street, Makeni Town, Northern Province, Sierra Leone.
Expanding Programmes & Partnerships
Preserving a Legacy, Building a Future
DCNCD is committed to preserving the Danielsen family legacy while growing into a leading centre for nonviolent communication, education and development — not only in Sierra Leone but across Africa.
The organisation's long-term vision includes expanding its reach to more communities across Sierra Leone, strengthening its international partnerships, developing educational facilities for vulnerable children, and training a new generation of facilitators, community leaders and peacebuilders.
Every programme, every training session and every partnership is a step toward a more peaceful, empathetic and resilient Sierra Leone — and a living tribute to the vision of the centre's founder.
Be Part of This Story
Join DCNCD as a volunteer, partner or supporter and help continue the legacy of peace and development in Sierra Leone.