At FOHSEN, we believe that real, lasting change starts with those closest to the challenge. Few people embody this principle better than Mbaye Babacar Gueye—a dedicated leader and community builder who has become a cornerstone of our efforts to transform rural healthcare in Senegal.
A Journey from Finance to Community Leadership
Mbaye’s story begins in Senegal, where he pursued a degree in finance from Cheikh Anta Diop University. His early career as a financial analyst at the Bank of Dakar (BDK) gave him a strong foundation in strategy and numbers, but his heart sought something deeper—a chance to create real impact in the communities that raised him.
In 2018, he chose to redirect his talents toward community development, volunteering with FOHSEN. This was not just a career pivot, but a personal mission inspired by a desire to honor his father’s legacy and strengthen the social fabric of his home country.
“When I was at the bank, I never saw the impact of my work. At FOHSEN, the results are tangible. I can see healthier communities, stronger connections, and a shared sense of purpose.”
What began as a six-month volunteer commitment quickly grew into a full-time leadership role at FOHSEN, where Mbaye now oversees construction efforts, including the Nganda Maternity project. His work goes beyond project management—he is a community builder, using his strategic vision to drive meaningful change where it matters most.
Building Trust and Connection in communities
In the rural community of Nganda, Mbaye is known as “Boy Nganda”—a nickname that speaks to his deep, personal connection to the people he serves. He isn’t just a project manager or finance expert; he is a community advocate, building not just structures, but trust and relationships.
As the lead of FOHSEN’s construction efforts, Mbaye ensures that every project is community-driven. He coordinates across committees, oversees infrastructure projects, and leads the Ambassador Program, mobilizing supporters around the world to invest in rural healthcare. His approach goes beyond bricks and mortar—it’s about empowering people to own their health systems and shape their futures.
“We don’t impose projects. We ask people what they need. And when you see so many people—staff, volunteers, partners—dedicating themselves to this work without expecting anything in return, you realize this project truly belongs to the people.”
Leadership Beyond Titles
Mbaye’s path is a testament to the power of flexibility and growth. He has helped FOHSEN raise over thousands for community-led initiatives, using his financial expertise to build sustainable funding models while gaining new skills in leadership, cross-cultural collaboration, and project management.
His message to others looking to make a difference? “Be open. Be flexible. Be willing to grow.” It’s this mindset that has allowed him to thrive in a dynamic, mission-driven environment where community always comes first.
Looking Ahead: A Community-Centered Vision for FOHSEN
As FOHSEN continues to expand, leaders like Mbaye are essential to its mission of building stronger, more resilient communities. With a focus on local voices, collaborative leadership, and long-term impact, Mbaye is helping us redefine what healthcare looks like in Senegal’s most rural regions.
“For me, this isn’t just about building clinics. It’s about building connections—creating spaces where communities can thrive, not just survive.”
Leaders like Mbaye remind us that true progress is not just measured in numbers, but in the lives changed and the bonds strengthened along the way.
