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The First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone and President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), Fatima Maada Bio, joined fellow First Partners from across the world for the official opening of the Global First Partners Academy.
The academy, described as a certified executive leadership training platform, brings together First Partners internationally to exchange ideas, align strategies on global issues, and strengthen their collective influence in driving systemic change.
Addressing participants at the opening session, Dr. Bio challenged conventional views of leadership, stressing that real power is not rooted in formal authority but in the ability to create meaningful social impact.
She noted that discussions at the academy strongly highlighted the importance of “soft leadership,” emphasizing that when guided by purpose and moral integrity, advocacy, empathy, and collaboration can serve as powerful tools for transforming public policy, changing societal mindsets, and creating opportunities for vulnerable women, children, and communities.
Speaking in her capacity as President of Organization of African First Ladies for Development, Dr. Bio said her participation in the global gathering goes beyond representation, describing it as an opportunity to deepen solidarity and promote growth among African leaders.
“It is incumbent upon me not only to stand in solidarity with my fellow African First Ladies but also to lead by example,” she stated. “Our presence here is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to learning, growing, and strengthening the impact we make in the lives of those we serve.”
Dr. Bio also expressed appreciation to the organizers and partners of the Global First Partners Academy, noting that the initiative seeks to build a strong international network of leaders committed to using their influence for social progress rather than personal gain.
She concluded on an optimistic note, saying the knowledge, partnerships, and collective actions emerging from the academy would play a significant role in advancing a more just, equitable, and inclusive world.
