Women make up nearly 50% of the global population, yet they remain underrepresented in leadership roles. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2023, women hold just 32.2% of senior leadership positions worldwide, with even fewer in political and executive roles. Despite these challenges, young women across the globe—and in Sierra Leone—are breaking barriers, shaping policies, and leading transformational change in their communities. On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate the remarkable young female leaders in Sierra Leone who are defying the odds, amplifying voices, and building a more inclusive and empowered society. Kadijatu Barrie Kadijatu Barrie is a dedicated civil rights activist and feminist with over…

“True leadership is about transforming challenges into opportunities, embracing change, and inspiring others to believe in the vision of a better future.” Matilda Z Kamara Matilda Zainab Kamara’s journey is a story of dedication, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of tax administration. With over 13 years of service at the Sierra Leone National Revenue Authority (NRA), she has been a part of the collective driving force in implementing significant reforms that have transformed the country’s tax landscape. Matilda is a courageous woman who has risen through the ranks through tough reforms. She is a woman in the process of making positive changes in both social…

“Shining your light” as demonstrated by Alimatu Farakhan Sesay is about embracing your identity, embracing your talents, and using your platform to uplift others and bring positivity and inspiration to the world around you. In a world overflowing with narratives waiting to be told, one woman’s vision and determination have birthed a phenomenon that’s rewriting the script of Sierra Leonean media. Alimatu Farakhan Sesay, a name that resonates with creativity and innovation, embarked on a journey that led to the birth of Lema’s Diary—a media entity that’s not just changing the game but rewriting the rules altogether. The story of Lema’s Diary is a testament to the power of passion,…

In a captivating exchange with esteemed SME clients of Ecobank on CNBC Africa on Tuesday 27th May 2023, we were all reminded of the extraordinary tales that define #Ellevate customers, all while commemorating the UN #MSMEDay. Among these remarkable individuals is Fatima Sesay, an exceptional entrepreneur at the helm of Unimax, a dynamic freight forwarding enterprise nestled in Sierra Leone. Through the unwavering support of Ellevate, Fatima has managed to overcome the daunting obstacles of financing that once impeded her progress. Initially, she received a lifeline of US$5,000 via Ellevate’s contract financing facility, effectively laying the groundwork for her flourishing enterprise. Today, that support has magnified to an impressive US$27,500,…

Do you remember? Your dreams as a little person? Those that took you to magical spaces and zones that asked a lot of your imagination. It’s quite surreal to accept that some were born blessed enough to land upon the pedestal of their dreams and others have to work tirelessly towards these goals. No matter the pathway, one thing is assured, if you are determined enough to dream big, these dreams might come true. We caught up with a big dreamer who is in the process of manifesting her childhood visions. Boi Beatrice Kenneh is a Filmmaker and Entrepreneur, she loves to tell stories and has a unique eye for…