What I do is from my heart. I’m not doing it because of my position; I’m doing it because I understand what victims go through—because I have been a victim before. I have always believed that life for women and girls will not improve by chance. It will get better by intentional change. We need to change the laws and keep up with education, particularly civic education, if we want to instill in these men the idea that ladies belong in school rather than running the household. Africa will be smoke if you leave all your women in the kitchen.
H.E. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio
International Spokesperson Women United Foundation
THE FIRST LADY OF SIERRA LEONE
Her Story
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, is a dynamic and dedicated advocate for social causes, particularly focusing on the empowerment of women and girls. Born in Koidu Town, Kono District, Sierra Leone, Fatima’s early life was marked by both challenges and opportunities that shaped her into the influential leader she is today.
She spent her formative years in Sierra Leone before moving to the United Kingdom for further education. She attended the Roehampton Institute in London, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Performing Arts. Her passion for education and personal development led her to further her studies at the University of Arts, London College of Communication, obtaining a degree in Journalism. This educational background equipped her with the skills and knowledge to effectively communicate and advocate for the causes she is passionate about.
Dr. Fatima’s life has not been without significant challenges. At the age of 11, she was married off to a man much older than herself, a situation that she courageously escaped from. This experience deeply influenced her commitment to fighting against gender-based violence and child marriage, as she understands firsthand the devastating impact these practices can have on young girls' lives.
International Spokesperson of Women United Foundation
In a powerful and inspiring speech given at the Smithsonian at "Honoring Iconic First Ladies of Africa" event hosted by Women United Foundation, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio delivered a heartfelt address celebrating the achievements and contributions of African First Ladies.
In her speech, the First Lady emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among African nations to address common challenges such as gender-based violence, child marriage, and education for girls.
She also shared personal anecdotes from her journey, underscoring her commitment to advocacy and the strides made through her "Hands Off Our Girls" campaign. Her passionate call to action resonated with the audience, as she urged for continued efforts in creating a safer, more equitable environment for the next generation of African women.
The W/U event celebrated not only the achievements of these First Ladies but also their ongoing efforts to drive change and improve lives. Dr. Fatima's speech is a testament to the collective power and influence of women leaders in Africa, and it reinforced the significance of supporting one another in the quest for social justice and equality.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
H.E. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has received numerous awards and recognition for her tireless efforts and significant contributions to the empowerment of women and girls, as well as her advocacy for human rights and social justice. Here are some of her most notable accolades:
Warrior Award at the International Women of Power Luncheon: Awarded in California, U.S.A., this honor recognized her bravery and outstanding contributions towards women and girls in Sierra Leone.
Woman of the Year by the Global Woman Award: Presented in London, this award celebrated her global advocacy efforts and her ongoing work for women's rights and empowerment.
Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters (D.HumL.): Conferred by the American International University in West Africa in recognition of her outstanding humanitarian and philanthropic interventions across the globe.
African Woman of Excellence Award: Celebrated for her significant contributions to promoting gender equality and women's rights.
Champion for Sanitation and Hygiene by the African Union: Acknowledged for her efforts in promoting sanitation and hygiene across Africa.
UNAIDS Champion for the Empowerment and Engagement of Adolescent Girls and Young Women: Appointed by UNAIDS, reflecting her commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of young women and girls.
Global Top 100 Most Influential Women of African Descent: Honored for her influence and advocacy in various fields, including gender equality and women's rights.
PERSONAL LIFE
H.E. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio is married to H.E. Julius Maada Bio, the President of Sierra Leone. Together, they form a dynamic duo dedicated to improving the lives of their fellow Sierra Leoneans. President Julius Maada Bio, a former Brigadier in the Sierra Leonean army, has been a supportive partner in her various initiatives. Their shared vision for a better Sierra Leone is evident in their collaborative efforts, such as the "Hands Off Our Girls" campaign, which aims to end child marriage and gender-based violence. Their partnership extends beyond politics, embodying a shared commitment to social justice and the empowerment of women and children.
The couple has children, and despite their busy schedules, they make family a priority. She often speaks about the inspiration she draws from her family, particularly her husband’s unwavering support. Together, they have implemented several national programs that have had a lasting impact on the country. These include initiatives to improve public education, provide free sanitary pads to schoolgirls, and enhance maternal and child healthcare services. Their joint efforts have not only brought about policy changes but have also created a supportive environment for future generations of Sierra Leoneans.
The First Lady is known for her vibrant personality and down-to-earth nature. She is often described as approachable and relatable, qualities that have endeared her to many. In her spare time, she enjoys acting, a passion that led her to a successful career in the entertainment industry before becoming First Lady. She is also a skilled communicator, using her platform to effectively advocate for her causes. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, combined with her resilience and hard work, has made her a beloved figure both in Sierra Leone and internationally. Fun facts about her include her love for the arts and her talent in scriptwriting, showcasing her creative side alongside her humanitarian efforts
The "Hands Off Our Girls" campaign, initiated by First Lady Fatima Maada Bio in December 2018, is dedicated to combating gender-based violence, early marriage, and teenage pregnancy, while promoting the empowerment of girls and women in Sierra Leone. The campaign has successfully influenced significant legislative changes, such as amending the Sexual Offences Act to increase penalties for rape and establishing a Fast-Track Special Court for rape cases. Additionally, it has facilitated the distribution of free sanitary pads to schoolgirls and trained medical professionals to support survivors of gender-based violence. The campaign has garnered international recognition, including presentations at the United Nations General Assembly, and continues to advocate for the rights and well-being of girls globally.
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