Fatou Talla

FOUNDER & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

As an immigrant from Senegal, I grew up understanding both the value of education and the challenges of navigating it without adequate guidance. My father brought our family to the United States to pursue better educational opportunities, but my parents’ limited formal education made it difficult for them to guide me through middle school and high school. With support and resources from my community, I persevered and became the first women in my family to earn both undergraduate and graduate degree.

Inspired by my journey, I founded the Educational Development Initiative for Senegal (EDIS) to ensure that youth in Senegal and New York City have access to the educational resources, financial support, and mentorship they need to succed and build brighter futures.

Isaiah Davis

chief Operating Officer

I joined EDIS because I am passionate about opportunity. Education is an essential gateway to opportunity. Education is not just for financial or political gain, but also for personal growth and improvement. All humans deserve that opportunity no matter where they are, and this is one step towards creating that opportunity.

Yacine Diouf

Communications & Public Relations Director

I joined EDIS to give back to my community and help the next generation navigate the challenges I faced while growing up and learning to navigate the system in America.

Astou F. Talla

Chief of Outreach

I joined EDIS because I firmly believe in the fundamental right to education. Education not only safeguards one's dignity and success but also equips individuals with the tools to thrive. With EDIS, I am committed to facilitating access to resources and fostering an enriching learning environment for the people of Senegal. Together, we can empower them to make significant contributions to the global community.

Donovan Griffin

Special Projects & events director

I joined EDIS because I believe in its creation and mission. The success of the next generation of young people depends on the investment we give through mentorship, workshops, and dedicated and passionate professionals who want to see them win. EDIS represents that to the fullest, and I am honored to have been chosen to help EDIS grow, make a positive impact, and have fun with our scholars.

Oumy Sakho

GENERAL SECRETARY

I joined EDIS because of my deep affection for Senegal and my fervent dedication to the country's development and its people have inspired me to become a part of EDIS! Just like their counterparts elsewhere, Senegalese youth deserve access to top-notch education. Education is not only a fundamental human right but also a societal benefit. Recognizing that young people are the future, I firmly believe that providing them with quality education is an investment that will enable them to realize their full potential and lead gratifying lives.

Yaye Ndiaye

Mentor

I joined EDIS as a mentor to empower students, encourage their personal and academic growth, and help them explore educational and career opportunities. With over 16 years of leadership and mentoring experience in the U.S. Navy, I hope to inspire students to recognize their potential, build confidence, and pursue their goals. As a first-generation American with Senegalese roots, giving back to my community is especially meaningful to me.

Thiawo Lecor

Vice Chair

I joined EDIS because it is dedicated to ensuring a bright future for our youth. Before coming to the USA in 2016, I spent five years teaching in Southern Senegal. I was inspired by the enthusiasm of families, even in rural areas facing extreme poverty, who were committed to sending their children to school every day. I encountered passionate teachers who, despite lacking educational resources, consistently achieved strong results.

However, after relocating, I realized that Senegal's educational system faces significant challenges. These challenges can only be addressed when we, as members of the Senegalese diaspora and our supporters, come together to provide our young brothers and sisters with access to quality education and opportunities for a better future.