Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, David Moinina Sengeh has been named on the TIME100 NEXT list of leaders.

Like the annual list of the TIME100 most influential people in the world, the TIME100 Next list features surprising pairings of the list members and guest contributors TIME selects to write about them.

This year’s selection has captured Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister for his great work in pushing education, technology and innovation in his country.

Sengeh received congratulatory message from Melinda French Gates upon his selection. In his message, the Chief Minister thanked Gates for the generous, kind gesture and reflection, adding that, he is very grateful being part of this years’ TIME100 NEXT list of leaders.

He also appreciated Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio for believing in young people and making the way for them to showcase their expertise in the governance system.

“What’s next? Thank you, Melinda French Gates, for this very kind and generous reflection. Honoured to be part of this years’ TIME 100 NEXT list. Thank you, president bio for believing in young people. Proud Sierra Leone leader!”