The First Lady of Sierra Leone, Fatima Maada Bio, has called on young women to pursue leadership roles with confidence, resilience, and determination, while encouraging students to build strong character and align themselves with people of integrity.

She made the statement on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, while delivering a public lecture at the Institute of Public Administration and Management on the theme, “Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers, Building the Future.”

Addressing students during the lecture, the First Lady said she places great importance on engaging university students because they represent the next generation of leaders expected to take responsibility for the country’s future.

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“As an advocate for the empowerment of women and girls, I place great value on engaging university students. You are the generation being prepared to take the helm of affairs in the coming years,” she stated.

She said it was important to speak openly about the realities of leadership, the challenges often faced by women in advocacy, and the way society responds to women who choose leadership roles.

The First Lady also urged students to pay close attention to their reputation and personal associations while still in university, noting that character plays a major role in shaping future opportunities.

“Your reputation is built now, while you are in university. Align yourself with people of integrity and clean records. The company you keep today can shape the path you walk tomorrow,” she told the audience.

Speaking on women’s participation in leadership and decision-making, Mrs. Bio encouraged young women not to limit themselves because of societal expectations. She urged them to make use of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act and remain confident in pursuing opportunities.

“Dream without limits. Do not shrink yourselves to fit expectations. Be present in decision-making spaces and claim your place at the table,” she said.

Reflecting on her advocacy work through the Hands Off Our Girls campaign, the First Lady said she faced significant resistance when the initiative was launched, particularly from individuals who doubted that girls could be protected and valued equally within society.

She, however, stated that public support strengthened the campaign and helped break barriers affecting the protection of girls in Sierra Leone.

“Today, the simplest way an underage girl can assert her right to protection is to say, ‘I am Fatima Bio’s daughter.’ That is the change we have achieved by breaking barriers together,” she remarked.

Mrs. Bio further expressed confidence that her contribution to the protection and empowerment of women and girls would continue to be recognized both in Sierra Leone and across Africa.

She reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that every girl grows up safe, educated, and free to achieve her full potential.