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 school 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.
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.