Ousman Darboe is a young Gambian, human and social justice activist residing in the United States of America.

Ousman was the country director for Heart to the Future International the Gambia, an international organization committed to maintaining peace and security and human rights.

Darboe was among the few young people who were publicly active in the fight against dictatorship in the Gambia and had written several articles which were published in online newspapers about the then repressive regime.

He also took part in the protest at the United Nations headquarters in New York and the White House in Washington DC. He obtained a Diploma in Human Right and Globalization from Plymouth State University.

He is a member of various local, national and international organizations including but not limited to United Nation Youth Council, where he took part in the draft resolution, on participation of young people in local and national political process. Ousman is also involved with Urban League of Greater Madison Young Professional, where he serves as a member of public policy and community service committee. He is also a board member at Madison-Kanifing Sister City committee, working on projects that promote social and economic development for both cities.

Ousman is currently pursuing a degree program in Accounting and Finance at Madison College, where he is elected as students representative at Madison College District Board, serving as a voice for more than 30, 000 students. He is presently the President for African Student Association and serves in Student Affairs Council, and Student Executive Leadership Team.

Ousman has received various local and national awards due to his active civil involvement and commitment to better the lives of people in his community and around the world. He received President’s Volunteer Service Award, from Barrack Obama, Humanitarian Award, Karen Robert Student Leadership Award (Outstanding student of the year) and Outstanding Achievement Award for Scholars of Mentoring Program.

By Sarjo D Bojang