“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.