Home: Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Age: Early forties. Old enough to have learned, young enough to keep dreaming. Birthplace: Guediawaye, Senegal. Profession: Investor, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Organization: MIR Holding SAS, MRD Foundation, Majestic Living Properties. Title: Founder & CEO. Languages spoken: French, English, Wolof.
Current project: Expanding Majestic Living Properties into new markets. Growing the MRD Foundation’s education programs in Senegal. Latest accomplishment: Successfully completed a charitable event. Latest contribution to others: Funding school programs and mentorship opportunities for underprivileged youth. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Leaving the comfort of corporate opportunities to build impact-driven ventures back home in Africa. Hobbies: Reading, traveling, and sharing knowledge with aspiring entrepreneurs. Recent travel or adventure: Senegal, reconnecting with roots while launching community housing projects. Last book read: The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho.
Personality profile: Grounded, determined, generous. How do you define a perfect friendship? Loyalty, honesty, laughter. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Built on trust and shared values. What is your greatest joy? Helping others achieve dreams they thought were impossible. What is your greatest fear? A life lived without impact. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Teachers. They shape the future every day. What is at the top of your bucket list? Building a world-class university in Senegal. How do you relieve stress? Long walks by the sea and prayer.
What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Football in the streets with friends. What book have you repeatedly read? The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho. What movie have you repeatedly watched? The Pursuit of Happyness. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? A map of Africa, which serves as a reminder of my responsibility to give back. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? My mother. Her strength and sacrifices shaped who I am. 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?
Affordable, eco-friendly housing communities across Africa.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Making real estate accessible, sustainable, and people-centered. What change would you like to see in the world? Greater equality in education. Every child deserves the chance to dream big. What message do you want to send out into the world? Success is not measured by what you have, but by how much you give. What mega-trend most excites you? Technology transforming how we live, especially smart housing.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? Beyond Borders. What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Idris Elba. 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. They hold my reflections and lessons. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? With my family, in Dakar, sharing stories and laughter. What advice would you give your younger self? Be patient, and invest in people earlier. What day in your life would you choose to re-live? The day MRD Foundation opened its first school project in Senegal.
Personal mission: Build businesses that empower communities and create opportunities for the next generation. Personal motto: If you rise, take others with you. Favorite quote: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” (Nelson Mandela). Desired epitaph: He built more than businesses; he built hope.
