FODELF 2026 in Numbers
“You do not have to wait for the perfect moment to grow. You simply need to make the right decision.”
That powerful message defined the opening of the 5th edition of the Forum for Female Entrepreneurship and Leadership (FODELF). Far from traditional conferences filled with predictable speeches, FODELF has evolved into one of Guinea’s most dynamic platforms for professional transformation and female empowerment.
Since its creation in 2019, the organization has pursued a clear mission: turning women’s empowerment from a theoretical concept into tangible economic and managerial progress. For the 2026 edition, the organizers completely redesigned the experience. Long formal conferences were replaced with an interactive “Talk Special Brunch” format focused on real conversations, networking and actionable insights.
A masterclass designed to break the glass ceiling
The event gathered 116 participants and stood out for the exceptional level of its speakers. Hosted by Fatoumata Diaraye Sacko, the day featured keynote guest Aminata Ouattara, a certified coach and Pan-African speaker, alongside a high-level masterclass by Jeanne Sissoko-Zézé, a personal branding expert and former executive at Standard Chartered Bank.
The central message throughout the discussions was clear: posture matters.
In demanding professional environments especially in industries still dominated by men women must learn to own their voice, strengthen their leadership presence and strategically build their personal brand.
Showcasing Guinea’s female excellence
FODELF also serves as a platform to highlight the women actively shaping Guinea’s economic future. Moderated by Dr. Fatou Sanogo, physician and social entrepreneur, the panels featured inspiring profiles from multiple industries:
Marguerite Kaba : Partnerships Manager at the Chamber of Mines of Guinea, with an advanced financial background trained in Canada.
Makale Diallo : Logistics specialist at Rio Tinto’s Simandou Project and certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
Hann Dienaba Keita : Executive Director of Expertise Guinée with nearly two decades of banking experience.
The forum also spotlighted influential women throughout March, including Haoussa Ly (CEO of IBS Group), Hadja Salimatou Kanté Kourouma (Managing Director of ASKHAM Global Logistique) and Conté Diénaba Sangaré (Director of the Bonfi Fishing Port).
Supported by strategic partners such as the Islamic Bank of Guinea, FODELF 2026 demonstrates that success is built collectively. Beyond inspiration, the forum creates real economic opportunities by enabling women to exchange contacts, build partnerships and access practical tools capable of accelerating their careers.
The place of women in leadership is no longer something to request. It is something to claim with courage, discipline and ambition.
Analyse d'Impact Général
Ce que cette actualité signifie pour vous
- For young professionals : Stop waiting for the “perfect moment” to evolve. As highlighted during the event, legitimacy is not given it is earned. Participating in platforms like FODELF is not an expense; it is an investment in your future. It is also one of the best places to find mentors who can guide your professional journey.
- The power of networking : Leadership is never built in isolation. The “Brunch” format chosen by the organizers was strategic. Some of the strongest business relationships are created during informal conversations. Before attending this type of event, always prepare a clear and concise pitch about your skills and ambitions.
- Learn from the women building Guinea : Mining, logistics and industrial sectors are no longer male-only territories. Profiles highlighted by FODELF such as Makale Diallo at Rio Tinto or Haoussa Ly, CEO of IBS Group prove that Guinean women are leading complex operations and excelling in strategic industries.
Conseils pratiques & Opportunités concrètes