Home: Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Age: 39. Birthplace: Guediawaye, Senegal. Profession: Entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist. Organization: MIR Holding SAS, MRD Foundation. Title: Founder & CEO. Languages spoken: French, English, Wolof.
Current project: Advising governments across Africa on the construction and agriculture sectors. Latest accomplishment: MRD Foundation provided a hospital in Senegal with the latest technology to help diagnose breast cancer. The first in the region to have the technology. Latest contribution to others: Funding a school rehabilitation and introducing advanced breast cancer diagnostics in Senegal. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Leaving Senegal to study and build my career abroad. Hobbies: Reading and traveling. Recent travel or adventure: Watching Senegal win AFCON.
How do you define an ideal business relationship? Built on trust and shared values. What is your greatest joy? Spending time with my family. What is your greatest fear? A life lived without impact. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Teaching. What is at the top of your bucket list? Building a world-class university in Senegal.
What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Football, played in the streets with friends. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? A map of Africa. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Never forget where you come from. What modern technology innovation do you most appreciate? Renewable energy solutions for housing.
What is your big idea?
Every venture should respond directly to real social and economic needs.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Asking “what do the people of this country actually need?”. What change would you like to see in the world? Better education for all. What mega-trend most excites you? Technology transforming the way we live.
Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? Nelson Mandela. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? My journals. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? With my family, in Dakar. What advice would you give your younger self? Be patient.
Personal mission: To build businesses that empower communities and create opportunities for the next generation. Favorite quote: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” (Nelson Mandela).
