The article aims to build on current understandings of the experiences and aspirations of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) trainees in conflict-affected countries, focussing on the case study of Sierra Leone. Employing the capabilities approach pioneered by Amartya Sen, it casts light on the different benefits beyond employability which young people acquire through TVET. This includes the development of their 'capacity to aspire'. At the same time, the article shows the poor conditions and social stigma that continue to surround TVET and the profession of 'skilled man' in the country of Sierra Leone. By doing so, the article shows the potential of capabilities approach and the concept of 'capacity to aspire' to more systematically look at the wider benefits of TVET to young people. It also reveals the simplistic nature of the international community's expectations with regards to TVET's role in post-conflict societies.