Gambian Activist Fatou Baldeh Named to TIME 100 Most Influential People of 2025
Banjul, April 2025 — Gambian women’s rights advocate Fatou Baldeh has been named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025, a prestigious global list celebrating leaders, trailblazers, and change-makers making a significant impact in the world.
Baldeh, the founder and executive director of Women in Liberation and Leadership (WILL), has long been at the forefront of the fight against female genital mutilation (FGM), an issue affecting millions of women and girls globally. Her fearless commitment to eradicating harmful traditional practices and empowering women has garnered international respect and recognition.
In January 2020, she was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by the British High Commissioner to The Gambia, Sharon Wardle, following the 2019 UK Special Honours List. The award acknowledged her advocacy for Black, minority, and ethnic communities in Scotland, where her work has also made waves in policy and grassroots organizing.
Now, her place on the TIME 100 list marks a new chapter in a journey that has always been about uplifting marginalized voices and fostering real, lasting change. Fatou’s recognition is not just personal—it shines a global spotlight on the struggles and strength of African women and the importance of culturally rooted, community-led activism.
Kudos to Fatou Baldeh for this monumental achievement and for continuing to raise the Gambian flag high. The world is watching, and The Gambia stands proud.
