Ajara Alghali
Detroit, MI, USA
Ajara’s Story
Ajara Alghali is a cultural planner and artist committed to preserving and advancing Black dance traditions. As the Director of the TéMaTé Institute for Black Dance and Culture, she champions cultural sustainability through dance. A Detroit native and first-generation immigrant, her work spans local community initiatives and global engagements, including a Fulbright Fellowship in West Africa.
Through filmmaking, research, and teaching, she explores the intersections of African and African-American identities, using storytelling and movement to drive social change. Her innovative approach to cultural planning and heritage preservation positions her as a key voice in shaping a more inclusive and culturally enriched future.
- Can you share a bit about your journey? What inspired you to pursue your career or passion?
“My journey into the arts wasn’t a straight path—I never saw being an artist as a viable career. However, after struggling to find a job, I realized that all my opportunities were coming from the dance and arts world. On a friend’s advice, I took a leap of faith. While the journey has been challenging, it has also been deeply rewarding, reinforcing the power of believing in yourself and embracing your passion.”
- What does being honored as a Salone Woman of Excellence mean to you?
“Being honored as a Salone Woman of Excellence is an acknowledgment of my work and dedication. It serves as a reminder that my efforts in cultural preservation in arts are making an impact. More importantly, it reinforces the power of representation—when people see you recognized, it inspires them to keep pushing forward on their path. This honor motivates me to continue uplifting my community and preserving our rich cultural heritage.”
- What advice would you give to young Sierra Leonean women striving for success in your field?
“To focus on mastering their craft beyond social media. While visibility is important, true success comes from deep knowledge, continuous learning, and meaningful contributions to your field. Invest in your skills, seek mentorship, and gain real-world experience—because experience is your best teacher. Build a legacy rooted in purpose, education, and impact, and your work will stand the test of time.”
- What legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of Sierra Leonean women?
“I hope to leave a thriving cultural ecosystem where Sierra Leonean women feel empowered to embrace, and preserve, our traditions. I want our artistry to remain visible, valued, and vibrant—rooted in heritage yet evolving with time.”
- In what ways do you believe Sierra Leonean women can continue to uplift and support each other?
“Sierra Leonean women can uplift and support each other by creating collaborative opportunities and sharing resources. Programs like this are essential for strengthening connections, especially within the diaspora. Despite being based in Michigan, I am eager to collaborate with other women—whether we share the same interests or not—because collective action drives meaningful change. By mentoring, amplifying each other’s voices, and building spaces for cultural and professional growth, we can help one another reach our goals and ensure lasting impact.”
- What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
“I’m deeply interested in documenting Sierra Leonean culture—exploring who we are as a people and what unites us. Preserving and sharing our stories is essential for future generations, and I hope to see more initiatives that support this effort, perhaps even with government backing. Fingers crossed! In the meantime, I’m excited to continue my work in cultural preservation through film, dance, and storytelling. We have a concert this October in Detroit that I’m looking forward to choreographing. I’m hopeful my work will grow larger and more visible on a global scale.”
Mamei Willie Bonglo
Crofton, MD, USA
Mamei’s Story
Although born in Maryland, Mamei spent her formative years living in Sierra Leone, West Africa and attended international schools until age 10. Upon returning to the United States, she lived in Lowell, MA before returning to the DC metropolitan area in 2008.
Mamei has worked in local government for much of her professional career, currently employed as a federal contractor for the General Services Administration. Other notable roles have been as Special Assistant for the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, and a Program Analyst at the DC Department of Human Resources. She graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst with a degree in Sociology, and holds a Master of Public Administration degree (cum laude) from the University of the District of Columbia. A life-long learner dedicated to continuous improvement, Mamei is currently exploring a career shift into the technology field, having recently been granted a full scholarship in a cybersecurity training program.
In addition to her work as a federal contractor, Mamei is also a business owner. Recently launching “Advanced Strategies, Inc.” A consulting firm focused on cybersecurity risk assessment, situational awareness, and asset protection.
In her spare time, Mamei enjoys traveling, cooking, and creating memories with her 6-year old son. She also loves live music, theater, dining out, and taking in museum exhibits and cultural performances. She is proficient in English and Krio, and conversational in Spanish. Mamei describes herself as an “eternal tourist”, constantly finding new adventures and things to do in the DC area and traveling outside of the US.
- Can you share a bit about your journey? What inspired you to pursue your career or passion?
“If I could describe my journey in one word, it would be “serendipity”. I knew from an early age that I wanted to become a public servant, and eventually an elected official. My trajectory has essentially followed those aspirations. In school, I was always studious and excelled academically. My parents, both career civil servants, provided direct inspiration and encouragement. My dad served as a diplomat for most of his professional career, and my mom was a stenographer for the embassy, then became a social worker. They both inspired me to pursue a career in public service.”
- What does being honored as a Salone Woman of Excellence mean to you?
“This distinction means the world to me! While I’m an American by birth, I take great pride in my Sierra Leonean ancestry. Both of my parents are from Sierra Leone: my Dad being a proud Mende man from Bo, and my Mom a dynamic Mende/Sherbro woman from Kenema. They both made sure my brother and I were knowledgeable and proud of our heritage, insisting on having us live back home in Sierra Leone as children. Being honored as a Salone Woman of Excellence means that I’ve managed to successfully embody a deep, sincere cultural identity, while integrating in the diaspora.”
- What advice would you give to young Sierra Leonean women striving for success in your field?
“My advice would be foremost to trust in your abilities and remain confident in your gift(s). As the world becomes increasingly integrated, competition is bound to remain steep. Therefore, it is important to know your craft, cultivate productive (and symbiotic) networks, always be willing to learn/improve, and treat others with respect and kindness.”
- How do you balance personal life, career, and community impact?
“It’s an evolving art, honestly! I know what my goals and aspirations are, but I also want to live a well-rounded life. So it’s important for me to work towards work-life efficiency. I honestly don’t think there’s such a thing as balance when it comes to all three. I prefer to just find meaningful ways to engage in those three areas in ways that fulfil, excite, and inspire me. Everything else will just fall into place organically.”
- What legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of Sierra Leonean women?
“I hope to inspire other Sierra Leonean women to reach for the stars. As a people, we are capable of such great things. History has shown! For Salone women, I hope I can remind them that they are truly capable of whatever they set their minds towards. I believe that as long as you are well-intentioned in your endeavors, the universe will conspire in your favor.”
- What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it shaped you?
“The best advice I’ve ever received is a rather simple, yet dynamic phrase: “Closed mouths don’t get fed.” When I first started working for the DC government, my mentor, Willair St. Vil, routinely said this. In a nutshell, it is a reminder to always be your own best advocate. Ask for what you need/deserve, and don’t wait for handouts. If you don’t ask, you won’t get.”
- What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
“I’m excited to grow my new business venture, Advanced Strategies, Inc. My focus is on cybersecurity awareness and asset protection. In today’s digital world, it’s important to protect your data, maintain trust, and understand the increasing risks of cyber threats in both our professional and personal lives.”
Aminata Kondeh
Laurel, MD, USA
Aminata’s Story
Aminata “Amie” Kondeh is an experienced IT and cybersecurity professional, leader, and visionary dedicated to leveraging technology for innovation and social impact. With over 20 years in IT, systems analysis, desktop support, cloud engineering, and cybersecurity, she currently serves as a Security Engineer at AccelerEd, President of SLinT, and Partner & CIO at TpGROUP Sierra Leone.
Born and raised in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Amie is passionate about bridging the digital divide and using technology to drive sustainable development and economic growth. Through SLinT, she connects technologists across the diaspora with innovators in Sierra Leone, creating opportunities, mentorship programs, and events like the SLinT Tech Expo to position Sierra Leone in the global tech space.
She holds an Associate Degree in IT/Networking, a Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity, and a Master’s in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigations. However, she believes that true growth comes from experience, exploration, and embracing challenges.
Beyond tech, Amie aims to mentor more women and minorities in STEM and contribute to Sierra Leone’s future through initiatives in healthcare, education, and economic empowerment. A passionate tennis player and outdoor enthusiast, she sees movement as a metaphor for life— always evolving, always reaching new horizons.
At her core, Amie is a dreamer, doer, and believer in purpose-driven impact, determined to leave a lasting legacy—one initiative, one connection, and one breakthrough at a time.
- Can you share a bit about your journey? What inspired you to pursue your career or passion?
“My journey has been one of curiosity, resilience, and purpose. Growing up in Freetown, Sierra Leone, I witnessed firsthand the challenges of limited access to technology and education. That experience ignited my passion for IT and cybersecurity, not just as a career but as a tool for empowerment and transformation. Over the past 20 years, I’ve built a career that spans systems analysis, cloud engineering, and cybersecurity, while also leading initiatives that bridge the digital divide. My inspiration comes from the belief that technology can change lives, and I am committed to using my expertise to pave the way for others, especially underrepresented communities.”
- What does being honored as a Salone Woman of Excellence mean to you?
“I feel deeply honored by this recognition, not because of the title, but because it reflects the impact of my work and the people I serve. To me, being a Salone Woman of Excellence is not just a personal achievement it’s a responsibility. It means continuing to uplift, mentor, and create opportunities for others. It’s a reminder that our work is bigger than us and that every effort we make contributes to a greater legacy.”
- What challenges have you faced in your field, and how have you overcome them?
“The tech and cybersecurity industry can be a challenging space, especially for women and minorities. I have faced doubts, biases, and the pressure to constantly prove my expertise. One of the biggest challenges has been balancing leadership, technical growth, and community impact while navigating a fast-evolving industry. I’ve overcome these challenges through continuous learning, resilience, and strong networks of support. Instead of seeing barriers as limitations, I view them as opportunities to innovate and push forward. “
- How do you stay motivated and continue to push for excellence in your work?
“My motivation comes from my purpose knowing that my work is not just about me, but about empowering others and driving change. I stay motivated by setting clear goals, surrounding myself with like-minded people, and embracing challenges as growth opportunities. I also make time for self-reflection, learning, and wellness because maintaining balance is essential to sustaining excellence. “
- What role has mentorship or community support played in your journey?
“Mentorship and community have been pivotal in my journey. I’ve been fortunate to learn from mentors and peers who have challenged and encouraged me. That’s why I’m passionate about paying it forward through SLinT and other initiatives. Also, I aim to create spaces where young professionals can connect, learn, and grow. Community support fuels innovation and resilience, and I firmly believe that no one achieves success alone.”
- What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it shaped you?
“One of the best pieces of advice I’ve received is: “Trust your journey, even when the path isn’t clear.” This has shaped my mindset in both my career and life. There have been moments of uncertainty, but I’ve learned that growth happens in discomfort and that every experience, good or bad, contributes to our evolution and purpose.”
- What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
“I’m excited about SLinT’s ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships with other nonprofit organizations. By collaborating with like-minded organizations, we aim to bridge the digital divide, enhance tech accessibility, and create sustainable impact in Sierra Leone. I plan to be actively involved in supporting these initiatives and ensuring that SLinT grows as a driving force in shaping the country’s technological future.
One of our key initiatives at SLinT is the SLinT Tech Expo, a platform designed to connect local and global technologists, industry leaders, and aspiring professionals. The Expo is more than just an event, it’s a movement to elevate Sierra Leone’s role in the global tech ecosystem, providing opportunities for networking, collaborating, and innovation. Through these efforts, we are committed to building a future where technology drives growth, inclusion, and transformation.
I’m also looking forward to the exciting future of TpGROUP. The company is growing, and I am optimistic about its vision and potential to drive impactful changes. As we expand, I see tremendous opportunities to innovate and contribute meaningfully to the evolving technological landscape.“
Sia F. Momoh
Freetown, Sierra Leone
Sia’s Story
Sia Fanta Momoh is a passionate youth advocate and the founder of the Sierra Leone Youth Advocacy Network. Committed to empowering young people, she has dedicated her efforts to addressing the challenges faced by youth in Sierra Leone and beyond.
In addition to her advocacy work, she is a student and serves as a reporter and news anchor at HKN Online TV, where she brings important stories to the forefront and amplifies the voices of her community. Her role as the national representative for females in Africa highlights her dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Through her multifaceted work, she strives to inspire and mobilize the next generation of leaders, fostering a culture of activism and engagement among youth. Her unwavering commitment to social change and ability to connect with young people make her a prominent figure in the movement for youth rights and representation in Sierra Leone and across Africa.
- Can you share a bit about your journey? What inspired you to pursue your career or passion?
“My journey began with a desire to make a difference in my community. Growing up in Sierra Leone, I witnessed the struggles faced by young people, particularly women. This fueled my passion for advocacy and led me to establish the Sierra Leone Youth Advocacy Network. I wanted to create a platform where youth voices could be heard and empowered.“
- What does being honored as a Salone Woman of Excellence mean to you?
“Being recognized as a Salone Woman of Excellence is a profound honor. It validates the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my advocacy efforts. This recognition not only motivates me to continue my work but also highlights the importance of female leadership in our society.“
- What role has mentorship or community support played in your journey?
“Mentorship and community support have been invaluable. I have been fortunate to have mentors who guided me and provided encouragement during challenging times. The support from my community has also been crucial, as it has helped me connect with like-minded individuals and amplify our collective impact.“
- In what ways do you advocate for women’s empowerment, and why is it important to you?
“I advocate for women’s empowerment through various initiatives, including workshops, awareness campaigns, and collaborations with local organizations. Empowering women is essential because it leads to stronger communities and promotes equality. When women thrive, society as a whole benefits.“
- What changes or progress do you hope to see for women in Sierra Leone over the next five years?
“In the next five years, I hope to see increased representation of women in leadership positions, improved access to education and healthcare, and stronger legal protections against gender-based violence. I envision a society where women can fully participate in all aspects of life.“
- What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it shaped you?
“The best advice I received was to “stay true to your purpose.” This has shaped my journey by reminding me to remain focused on my goals and to prioritize the needs of the community I serve. It has instilled resilience and determination in me.“
- What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
“I am currently working on launching a mentorship program for young women in Sierra Leone, aimed at providing guidance and resources to help them achieve their goals. I’m also excited about collaborating with other youth organizations to create a national youth summit focused on advocacy and leadership development.“
Saffie Sesay
Freetown, Sierra Leone
Saffie’s Story
Saffie Sesay is the National Director of the Inclusive Gender Network, leading initiatives that promote gender equality, women’s rights, and social justice. As an AU-EU Voice Lab Mobilizer, Saffie actively engages in cross-continental dialogues to amplify the voices of African and European youth on critical global issues.
Currently a third-year student at Fourah Bay College, studying Gender and Development Studies, Saffie is deeply committed to advocacy and social change. Serving as the Executive Director of the Young People Advocacy Network (YPAN), Saffie works on youth empowerment, climate action, and policy influence.
Passionate about human rights, Saffie has been instrumental in championing campaigns against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and other harmful practices, striving to create a more inclusive and just society. Through this work, Saffie continues to inspire young leaders and changemakers, reinforcing a strong commitment to social transformation and sustainable development in Sierra Leone and beyond.
- Can you share a bit about your journey? What inspired you to pursue your career or passion?
“My journey as a gender activist is deeply rooted in my passion for equality, justice, and the empowerment of women and girls in Sierra Leone. Growing up in a society where gender disparities and cultural barriers often limit opportunities for women, I witnessed firsthand the challenges that many young girls and women face including discrimination, limited access to education, and harmful traditional practices like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). These experiences ignited a sense of responsibility in her to challenge these injustices and advocate for change.“
- What does being honored as a Salone Woman of Excellence mean to you?
“Being honored as a Salone Woman of Excellence is a profound recognition of my journey, dedication, and impact as a young female leader in Sierra Leone. It signifies more than just an award, it is a validation of my relentless advocacy for gender equality, youth empowerment, and social justice.“
- How do you stay motivated and continue to push for excellence in your work?
“Staying motivated and pushing for excellence in my work as a gender activist, youth leader, and advocate for social justice requires a combination of passion, discipline, consistency, and a strong sense of purpose in whatever I set my mind to do.“
- What changes or progress do you hope to see for women in Sierra Leone over the next five years?
“Over the next five years, I hope to see transformative progress for women in Sierra Leone, particularly in the areas of gender equality, economic empowerment, leadership, and the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). My vision is to witness a society where women and girls are no longer limited by cultural, social, or systemic barriers.
Women must be equally represented in government, corporate leadership, and community decision making structures. I hope that in the next five years, Sierra Leone will have more female ministers, parliamentarians, and CEOs, proving that women’s leadership is not just possible but essential for national progress.“
- What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it shaped you?
“One of the best pieces of advice I ever received was: “Your voice is your power, never be afraid to use it.” This simple yet profound message has shaped my journey as a gender activist, youth leader, and advocate for social justice in Sierra Leone“
- In what ways do you believe Sierra Leoneans can continue to uplift and support each other?
“I believe that Sierra Leoneans can continue to uplift and support each other by fostering a culture of unity, empowerment, and collective progress. True national growth happens when we work together with unity, empowerment, and collective progress. True national growth happens when we work together to build a society where everyone regardless of gender, background, or social status has the opportunity to thrive.“
- What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
“As the National Director of Inclusive Gender Network, I am excited about several upcoming projects and initiatives that will advance gender equality, women’s empowerment, and social justice in Sierra Leone. These initiatives align with my vision of creating an inclusive society where women and young people have equal opportunities to thrive.
Upcoming projects:
- Expanding our Anti-FGM and GBV Advocacy Campaign.
- Women’s Leadership and Political Participation Program
- Economic Empowerment for women and girls
- Gender and Climate Justice Initiative
- Inclusive Gender Network’s Digital Expansion”
Kadija Yilla
Cambridge, MA, USA
Kadija Yilla’s Story
Kadija Yilla is an MBA candidate at Harvard Business School, where she serves as Co-President of the African American Student Union and will graduate in May 2025. Born in Sierra Leone, she immigrated to the United States at age eight and is a proud first-generation college graduate. Kadija earned dual degrees in Economics and Mathematics from Pomona College, where she discovered her passion for creating inclusive communities and advancing opportunities for underrepresented groups.
After roles at Goldman Sachs Asset Management and the Brookings Institution, Kadija joined McKinsey & Company, focusing on strategic transformations and diverse leadership initiatives. Her dedication to uplifting others inspired her to serve on the leadership team of The Sadie Collective, a nonprofit that supports Black women in economics and related fields. As Chief Strategy Officer, she helped develop partnerships, mentorship pipelines, and funding models that broaden access for aspiring professionals. Through her advocacy and professional work, Kadija strives to build equitable organizational cultures and foster economic empowerment—particularly for Black women and communities in Sierra Leone. Driven by her experiences, she envisions a future where inclusive leadership and stronger networks empower individuals to flourish.
- Can you share a bit about your journey? What inspired you to pursue your career or passion?
“I was born in Sierra Leone and immigrated to the United States with my mother when I was eight. Adapting to a new culture without an immediate support system underscored the importance of compassion, community, and resilience—values I now carry into every aspect of my life. While studying Economics and Mathematics at Pomona College, I realized data could be a powerful tool to highlight disparities and drive meaningful change. That discovery, coupled with my personal experiences, inspired me to focus on building pathways for underrepresented groups, especially Black women. My professional journey—spanning Goldman Sachs Asset Management, the Brookings Institution, and McKinsey & Company—has been guided by a passion for creating equitable spaces. Along the way, I’ve embraced small, sustainable habits like journaling and daily mindfulness to protect my mental health and remain aligned with my long-term vision. Ultimately, I want to ensure others have the sense of belonging I once struggled to find.“
- What does being honored as a Salone Woman of Excellence mean to you?
“It is both a profound honor and a deep affirmation of my roots in Sierra Leone. This recognition validates not only my personal achievements but also the collective journey of so many women who helped shape me. I see it as a call to action: to leverage my platform, share resources, and continue lighting the way for others. By celebrating my story, I hope to inspire more Sierra Leonean women to lead, innovate, and uplift our communities around the globe.“
- How do you stay motivated and continue to push for excellence in your work?
“My motivation comes from a clear sense of purpose: building equitable, empowered communities. I take intentional pauses for reflection—through journaling, therapy, or conversations with mentors—to ensure my work aligns with this mission. When I see a young woman gain confidence after participating in a program I helped develop, it fuels me to keep learning, leading, and striving for excellence. I also continually invest in my own growth by seeking out challenging roles, staying curious about new ideas, and surrounding myself with people who hold me accountable.“
- In what ways do you advocate for women’s empowerment, and why is it important to you?
“The best advice I’ve received is to “seek feedback intentionally, but not every piece of feedback is meant for you. Take what resonates and leave what doesn’t.” I always strive for personal and professional development, and that inevitably means seeking perspectives from others. However, not everyone has a holistic idea of who you are or the person you aim to become. So it’s crucial to discern which feedback aligns with your values and goals—and which feedback to set aside. This approach has helped me incorporate what truly fosters my growth while staying authentic to the future I envision for myself.“
- What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it shaped you?
“I’ve learned to be intentional with my time and set boundaries that allow me to honor each dimension—my well-being, my professional responsibilities, and my commitment to community. Therapy has helped me manage stress and remain focused on my priorities. At work, I align the projects I take on with my long-term mission of equity and inclusion; in my personal life, I set aside space for rest, family, and creative outlets like crocheting. This integrated approach ensures I’m not just “adding on” community impact work, but rather making it an organic extension of my life.“
- How do you balance personal life, career, and community impact?
“I’ve learned to be intentional with my time and set boundaries that allow me to honor each dimension—my well-being, my professional responsibilities, and my commitment to community. Therapy has helped me manage stress and remain focused on my priorities. At work, I align the projects I take on with my long-term mission of equity and inclusion; in my personal life, I set aside space for rest, family, and creative outlets like crocheting. This integrated approach ensures I’m not just “adding on” community impact work, but rather making it an organic extension of my life.“
