On October 26, 2024, the Guineans Succeeding in America (GSA) conference in Manhattan brought together hundreds committed to growth, empowerment, and unity. Students, entrepreneurs, professionals, and government officials filled the venue, driven by a common purpose: to learn, share, and connect, reigniting momentum that had been paused by the pandemic.
The conference began with a moving speech from Chairman Abdoulaye Pathé Barry, who shared a story of GSA’s impact on a young mother. Unable to attend school due to childcare limitations, she received online English classes and a laptop from GSA, enabling her recent college admission—a story that illustrates GSA’s lasting influence on lives. A young student from Guinea testified similarly, describing how GSA helped him secure admission to English schools and college, even offering financial aid to support his journey. Stories like these reveal GSA’s impact, not only supporting individuals but nurturing a future of empowered leaders.
The conference featured distinguished panelists, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise to inspire the largely student- and professional-based audience. Keynote speaker Gassim Bah, Vice President and Regional Banking Manager at Wells Fargo, captivated the audience with his journey from dishwasher to high-ranking banking executive. Mr. Djiba Millimono, founder of “Le Grand Concours”in Guinea, inspired attendees with his work funding young entrepreneurs and sparking economic growth in his community. Each story was a testament to resilience and purpose.
The theme, “Rebuilding Momentum for Growth,” struck a deep chord. “Today, we reignite our momentum,” GSA founder Abdourahamane Diallo said. “With hundreds of attendees committed to this experience, we are back, stronger than ever.” GSA President Laye Oumar Koulibaly described the organization as more than a network—it’s a family. “Together, we form bonds that last. We create friendships.”
GSA’s mission is to empower the Guinean community through education and professional development. “We welcome those dedicated to empowering others,” said Abdourahamane. “We are a merit-based organization. Here, only commitment and contribution matter—not ethnicity, race, or religion.”
With every conference, GSA continues to shape the narrative for a generation of leaders determined to bridge gaps and lift each other higher, embodying what it truly means to succeed together.