By: Mohamed Sahr
Mariama Sahid is a notable figure actively involved in social and political advocacy, particularly focusing on women’s health, equity, and leadership in Sierra Leone.
Sahid has been a vocal advocate for the inclusion of women in peace processes. She has worked with initiatives like the Localisation of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act 2022 agenda. This highlights her commitment to creating spaces for women to be actively involved in governance and peace-building efforts.
Role in Campaign for Good Governance (CGG): Sahid has served in various capacities at CGG, notably as a Communications Officer. In this role, she has contributed to significant projects, including Building Young Feminist Leaders’ Capacity for Democracy. Her work is centered around empowering young women to take on leadership roles and push for governance reforms.
Youth Representation and International Involvement: She has been a Youth Representative at the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), funded by the African Women’s Development Fund, which places her on a global platform advocating for women’s rights and social change.
Throughout her journey, she has been guided and supported by key mentors such as Madam Marcella Samba-Sesay and Mr. Sahr Kendema, both of whom have had a significant influence on her leadership path.
Mariama was honoured with the Nova Award 2025, a prestigious award recognising social innovation in women’s health and equity. This award highlights her contributions to gender equality and social justice.
“I am deeply humbled to share that I have been selected as a recipient of the Nova Award 2025, alongside the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs of Sierra Leone, Dr. Isata Mahoi. Recognised as the global gold standard for social innovation in women’s health and equity, this honor is not just mine but a reflection of an incredible journey and the people who have shaped it.” She said.
Her path began as a mentee in the Young Women in Politics initiative, which later evolved into the Young Women in Democracy Forum at the Campaign for Good Governance (CGG). From there, I took on the role of Communications Officer for the People-to-People Peace Building Project, contributing to meaningful community engagements and dialogues for sustainable peace.
She had the privilege of advancing my work through the Localisation of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act 2022 Agenda, advocating for women’s inclusion in peace processes. Today, Sahid serves as Communications Officer for CGG, leading initiatives such as the Building Young Feminist Leaders’ Capacity for Democracy Deepening and Accountability in Sierra Leone Project, empowering the next generation of feminist leaders to champion equality and governance reforms.
Her journey would not have been possible without the unwavering guidance of Madam Marcella Samba-Sesay, whose leadership has been a source of inspiration, and Mr. Sahr Kendema, whose consistent support and motivation have strengthened my resolve for impactful leadership.
“While I may be receiving this award, it is my current role as a Youth Representative, funded by the African Women’s Development Fund at the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), that grants me the honour of accepting it in person.” She added.
The award is more than just recognition; it’s a call to continue building movements, fostering collaboration, and driving meaningful change. “Together, let’s shape a future where every woman and girl has equitable access to health, leadership, and opportunity. The movement continues,” madam Sahid urged.