“Every name you see here is a new line in a child’s story of hope.”
Board of Directors
Mariama Bah – Founder & CEO (United States)
Why I Serve: I serve because my own journey taught me how powerful it is for a child to feel seen, supported, and believed in. Beyond kINship is my way of turning compassion into action by creating spaces where children can learn, heal, grow, and know that their story is still being written.
Encouraging word: Purpose
Fun Note: I believe one moment of encouragement can change the way a child sees their future.
Amara George – Vice President (United States)
Why I Serve: I serve because I believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and caring environment. As Vice President, I am committed to helping advance Beyond Kinship’s mission by strengthening partnerships, supporting programs, and ensuring that young people have access to the resources and encouragement they need to succeed
Encouraging word: Empowerment
Fun Note: I enjoy supporting initiatives that create brighter futures for children and families.
Isata Bayoh – Secretary (United States)
Why I Serve: I serve because I believe every child should experience the good things in life, regardless of their circumstances. Through Beyond Kinship, I hope to help create opportunities, support, and hope for children who need it most.
Encouraging word: Optimism
Fun Note: I love seeing children smile and hearing their laughter also feeling valued.
My’Taquia Nelson – Treasurer (United States)
Why I Serve: I serve because I know how much a caring community can change a child’s life. Being part of Beyond Kinship gives me the opportunity to use my gifts behind the scenes so more children and families feel seen, supported, and never alone.
Encouraging word: Belonging
Fun Note: I’m a firm believer that kindness and consistency can change someone’s story.
Staff & Programing Team
Albert Joseph Kandeh – Operations Director (Sierra Leone)
Why I Serve: I serve because I believe every child deserves an equal opportunity to succeed regardless of their background. Beyond Kinship support less privilege kids through education, mentorship, and empowerment programs and I am proud to contribute to improving their lives and helping them reach their full potential.
Encouraging word: Opportunity
Fun Note: Changing lives, one smile at a time!
Kamorba Dabo – Program Manager (Sierra Leone)
Why I Serve: I serve because every child deserves a fair start, and small acts of support can change the entire direction of their future. And to make sure less privilege children know they belong and they matter.
Encouraging word: Believe
Fun Note: I carry stickers in my pocket for emergency smile situation.
Salamatu Bah – Secretary (Sierra Leone)
Why I Serve: I serve because I believe every child deserves support, encouragement and opportunities to succeed. Through Beyond Kinship , I hope to make a positive difference in young people’s lives and help them believe in their potential.
Encouraging word: Hope
Fun Note: I enjoy helping others and seeing them smile!
Saffa Bainda– Treasurer (Sierra Leone)
Why I Serve: I serve because leaders create leaders. Beyond Kinship gives me the chance to add value to kids who will become the next face of great leadership in Sierra Leone and beyond.
Encouraging word: Leadership
Fun Note: I’m convinced the future of Sierra Leone is sitting in a classroom we serve today!