Position: President / Networking and Partnership Coordinator
Michelle V. Gomez is a passionate advocate for the rights of women and girls. After years of working as an administrator in the banking sector and other organizations, she reached a turning point—deeply moved by the challenges faced by women in her community, she felt compelled to take action. Despite having little formal experience in advocacy, Michelle boldly stepped into the arena of women’s empowerment. Driven by a vision of equity, she founded a school dedicated to providing quality education to children from low-income families—ensuring that no child is denied opportunity due to their background. Today, Michelle serves as the President of the Hope Academic Centre Foundation. A natural team builder with a hunger for growth, she leads with resilience and an open mind. Guiding this noble initiative has been a challenging journey, but Michelle remains steadfast, committed, and full of purpose.
Position: Vice President / Program Manager
Eugene brings over 15 years of extensive experience in finance, administration, and advocacy to his work. He began his career at PKF Accountants and Business Advisers as a trainee accountant and went on to serve in several key roles, including Finance Manager for Young Volunteers for the Environment (YVE) – The Gambia, Administrator at A.J. Njie Law Chambers, Financial Manager at Alkan Gambia, and a Member of the School Management Committee for Emmanuel Mission Centre Nursery, Lower and Upper Basic School. He currently holds dual roles as Finance and Administrative Director at Public Private Integrity and Vice President/Program Manager at the Hope Academic Centre Foundation. Eugene is a passionate advocate for human rights, dignity, and anti-corruption. A committed Pan-Africanist and seasoned activist, he has a strong track record in community engagement and high-level policy advocacy. He believes that sustainable development is impossible without inclusive and participatory community involvement. Eugene has also played an active role in climate justice movements, representing these causes on both national and international platforms. His leadership and dedication continue to drive meaningful change in the communities he serves.
Advocacy and Capacity Building officer/ Coordinator of Learn and Lead Initiative
Monica Badjan is a passionate and driven advocate for human rights and community development. She is currently a third-year student at the University of The Gambia, pursuing a degree in Development Studies with a minor in Human Resource Management. Her academic journey began at St. Peter’s Technical Junior and Senior Secondary School, where her passion for social impact first took root. At the heart of Monica’s work lies a deep commitment to people-centered development and the protection of human rights. She is a self-motivated changemaker with a unique and powerful perspective on advocacy. Her resilience and unwavering dedication to ensuring that children grow up in healthy, safe environments make her stand out as a rising leader in her field. Monica currently serves as the Advocacy and Capacity Officer/Coordinator for the Learn and Lead Initiative, where she continues to use her voice and skills to empower others and drive meaningful change in her community.
Financial Controller
Emmanuel Bour Senghore is a dedicated and results-driven accounting professional, currently pursuing his ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification in The Gambia. With strong expertise in accounting, administration, and communication, he brings a well-rounded skill set to his work. Born in Dakar, Senegal, Emmanuel completed his secondary education at Ndow’s Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in The Gambia, and went on to study at the Grace Institute of Professional Accounting. There, he earned diplomas in Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, and Business and Technology. Emmanuel began his professional journey at Hope Academic Centre, where he currently serves as both Administrator and Finance Controller for the Hope Academic Centre Foundation. He is known for his creativity, strong leadership qualities, and effective communication skills. Outside of his professional life, Emmanuel is passionate about sports—especially soccer and basketball—enjoys watching movies, and actively participates in volunteer work. A committed Christian, Emmanuel is deeply passionate about people and community development.
Strategic And Education Officer
Mr. Neal Davies has dedicated his life to empowering students through both personal and professional experience. Known for his compassionate approach, Neal supports students in overcoming life’s challenges and helps them turn setbacks into opportunities for growth. Inspired by his late father, Mr. Ronald Davies, a respected educationalist and mentor, Neal has followed in his footsteps, committing himself to educational development and community service. He not only works with students in formal education settings but also champions adult literacy programs, ensuring that education is accessible to all within his community. Neal understands that there is no one-size-fits-all method to education and mentorship. His adaptive and inclusive approach has made him a trusted mentor, particularly among youth in his community. Throughout his career, Neal has served in various impactful roles including Acting Principal at Salvation Primary School, Assistant Head of Department, Business Club Coordinator, and Red Cross Coordinator, among others. He pursued his education at the University of The Gambia (MDI) and Stratford College The Gambia (U.K.), focusing on Management Policy and Analysis, Accountancy and Finance, and Educational Development (ED). Neal is currently a faculty member at Charles Fowlis Senior School and serves as the Strategic and Education Officer at the Hope Academic Centre Foundation, where his leadership continues to inspire positive change.