Isata Kabia is the Founding Director of Voice of Women Africa (VoW Africa), a network dedicated to amplifying women’s voices, fostering collective action, and increasing women’s participation in politics. Through VoW Africa, she aims to build a cadre of confident female leaders and create pathways to leadership for girls.

Ms. Kabia has held significant government positions in Sierra Leone, serving as Minister of Social Welfare, Gender, and Children’s Affairs and as Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to advancing gender equality, education, and youth empowerment.

In 2015, she established the AFRiLOSOPHY Foundation, a social enterprise that provides training and job opportunities for young people, particularly women, through the manufacturing of hair and body care products, teas, and oils. The foundation has supported women and youth in starting their enterprises and currently runs a Rural Education Program (REP) that focuses on building local primary schools to enhance educational access in underserved communities.

Ms. Kabia’s political career began in the Office of Diaspora Affairs, where she worked as Special Advisor on Diaspora Affairs in the Office of the President. She resigned in 2011 to run for office and, in 2012, became the first female Member of Parliament for Constituency 050 in Port Loko District. She also represented Sierra Leone in the Pan-African Parliament, serving as Rapporteur for the Committee on Education, Tourism, and Culture. As an MP, she championed education, recognizing its critical role in driving sustainable development within her constituency.

Ms. Kabia holds an honors degree in biochemistry and an MBA in global business and impact Entrepreneurship from the University of Milan. She is an Acumen West Africa Fellow and a Vital Voices Engage Fellow, reflecting her dedication to impactful leadership and social change.

Entrepreneurship in politics, social enterprise, and advocacy, Isata Kabia continues to inspire and empower women and youth in Sierra Leone and across Africa.