Isatou M Bokum
Founder and Executive Director of Girls Talk Organisation, Isatou M Bokum is a dedicated feminist activist with a master’s degree in Gender Studies and Public Policy. With a robust background in international development and strategic communication, Isatou leads the organization with a vision to empower girls and young women, championing their rights and fostering social justice.
My Story
Growing up in The Gambia, Isatou M Bokum was deeply aware of the challenges faced by girls and women in her community, where early marriages and limited educational opportunities were the norm. At just seven years old, her life took a pivotal turn when her mother, needing gallstone bladder surgery, moved the family from their rural village to the city. Despite her mother’s illness, this move was a crucial chance for Isatou to escape the limitations of her former life.
In the city, Isatou’s world opened up. Witnessing firsthand the impact of structural injustices and harmful cultural practices, she became determined to use education as a tool for change. Her journey in advocacy began early—at the age of nine, she joined Whisper Girls, a group that empowered her to host radio talk shows addressing taboo topics relevant to girls' development. This formative experience fueled her passion for advocacy and cemented her resolve to make a difference.
After high school, Isatou dedicated a year to volunteer work and personal development before pursuing higher education. In 2018, she founded Girls Talk Organisation to fight for the rights and wellbeing of women and girls. Since then, her organization has made significant strides, using both on-site and online advocacy to combat prejudice and violence.
Isatou’s work has led to tangible change in communities across The Gambia. From mentorship programs that empower girls to pursue education and leadership roles, to advocacy that challenges harmful customs like female genital mutilation and child marriage, the impact has been profound. Her commitment is further reflected in the successes of the girls who have transformed their lives and communities through Girls Talk’s programs.
Isatou finds hope in the growing movement for gender equality across Africa and the increasing number of women in leadership roles. Through Girls Talk, she continues to advocate for stronger protections and cultural shifts, striving for a future where every girl can realize her full potential. Her journey is a powerful reminder that persistence and dedication can drive meaningful change, and that every step forward, no matter how small, contributes to a larger vision of equality and opportunity.
