Fatou Talla

FOUNDER & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

I am a devoted educator passionate about promoting equity in education, with 10 years of experience leading student success programs in nonprofits and a strong background in college and university curriculum requirements. My father made the courageous decision to bring our family to the United States to enhance our education, but my parents’ lack of schooling made it challenging for them to support me during middle and high school. Despite these obstacles, I successfully completed high school with the invaluable support of the Harlem Children’s Zone, which paved the way for me to enroll at John Jay College of Criminal Justice as the first woman in my family to graduate with both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Inspired by my journey, I founded the Educational Development Initiative for Senegal (EDIS) to empower my community. As an immigrant from Senegal, I have actively engaged in community building, volunteering with the Senegalese Association in Harlem to help families learn English.

My goal is to support young individuals in completing their K-12 education and ensuring they are well-prepared for higher education or the workforce. Through EDIS, I aspire to create a platform that empowers Senegalese youth and opens doors to a brighter future.

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.

Dajanee Cochran

Mentorship Coordinator

I joined EDIS because of my passion for providing future generations with the same care and support that I was privileged to receive. Many people face challenges in life due to a lack of accurate information and opportunities. I am grateful to have had wonderful mentors who guided me academically, professionally, financially, and spiritually, inspiring me to become a well-rounded individual. Growing up in Harlem, it has been incredibly rewarding to spend five years working at a nonprofit dedicated to helping Black and Brown youth get to and through college and secure fulfilling employment. I am excited to work with Senegalese youth in my Harlem community, providing them with the resources they need to become self-sustaining adults.

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.