On October 21, 2024, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio delivered a powerful guest lecture at Brigham Young University (BYU), one of the largest Christian universities and the third-largest private university in the United States.

Located in Provo, Utah, and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, BYU boasts an impressive campus that spans 738 acres and enrolls over 35,000 students from around the globe.

During her lecture, Dr. Bio emphasized the critical importance of gender equality on a global scale, advocating for equal opportunities for women and addressing persistent stereotypes in Africa that depict women primarily as domestic caretakers and childbearers.

Provo, United States – October 2, 2016: LaVell Edwards Stadium on the campus of Brigham Young University. BYU is a private research university owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

She shared insights into the strides made by her husband’s administration in Sierra Leone, including the landmark ban on child marriage and the establishment of a framework to ensure that every girl has access to quality education.

“My lecture focused on the global significance of gender equality,” Dr. Bio stated. “I highlighted the achievements of my husband’s government in banning child marriage and ensuring educational opportunities for girls.”

In a personal reflection, she recounted her journey of escaping child marriage, pursuing her education, and ultimately becoming an award-winning First Lady. Her story resonated with the audience, inspiring many to consider their roles in advancing women’s rights and gender equality.

Following her lecture, Dr. Bio met with Shane Reese, President of BYU, who shared insights into the university’s foundational values and the historical significance of its mission. Their discussion underscored the alignment of BYU’s principles with the efforts to promote social justice and equality worldwide.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s visit to BYU not only highlighted her commitment to empowering women but also reinforced the global dialogue on gender equality, inspiring future leaders to advocate for change in their communities.