What I Do
Areas of Passion and Service
Education
Sona T. Sesay’s identity as an educator is rooted in systemic reform and a deep commitment to student welfare across Liberia. Drawing on advanced training from Boston College in educational leadership and policy, she serves as Assistant Minister for Student Personnel Services within the Ministry of Education. In this capacity, Sona designs scalable policy frameworks, strengthens learning institutions, and addresses critical challenges surrounding school enrollment and student retention. Her career bridges the gap between high-level governance and grassroots action, having previously pioneered holistic academic and life skills curricula at the LEAD Monrovia Football Academy. By coordinating efforts with global development entities like UNICEF and the World Literacy Foundation, she champions equitable, high-quality learning environments that equip children with the essential reading and critical thinking tools required to thrive in a modern world.
Women & Youth Empowerment
As an Amujae Leader and dedicated public servant, Sona focuses intensively on dismantling systemic barriers to create clear, accessible pathways for young people and women to excel. Her approach combines strategic leadership mentorship with actionable civic programming to build unshakeable confidence and institutional representation for the next generation. Through prestigious international networks, including the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program and the Gratitude Network, she actively advocates for structural changes that foster inclusive spaces in public service, education, and community governance. Sona’s work directly addresses the unique socio-economic challenges confronting girls and young student groups across West Africa. By providing direct mentorship, spearheading high-impact youth development workshops, and creating supportive institutional frameworks, she ensures that emerging leaders possess the personal resilience, necessary professional networks, and practical tools required to challenge existing boundaries, champion local progress, and lead with purpose.
Women & Youth Empowerment
As an Amujae Leader and dedicated public servant, Sona focuses intensively on dismantling systemic barriers to create clear, accessible pathways for young people and women to excel. Her approach combines strategic leadership mentorship with actionable civic programming to build unshakeable confidence and institutional representation for the next generation. Through prestigious international networks, including the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program and the Gratitude Network, she actively advocates for structural changes that foster inclusive spaces in public service, education, and community governance. Sona’s work directly addresses the unique socio-economic challenges confronting girls and young student groups across West Africa. By providing direct mentorship, spearheading high-impact youth development workshops, and creating supportive institutional frameworks, she ensures that emerging leaders possess the personal resilience, necessary professional networks, and practical tools required to challenge existing boundaries, champion local progress, and lead with purpose.
Entrepreneurship
Believing that economic independence is foundational to personal dignity, Sona blends creative innovation with social responsibility as the Founder and Creative Director of ST. Pearls Modest Fashion Company. She established this purpose-driven enterprise to make stylish, high-quality, and modest apparel accessible to women, proving that business can effectively champion personal values and confidence. Beyond standard retail operations, her venture acts as a practical incubation space for female empowerment and accessible entrepreneurship within the local economy. Sona manages everything from brand positioning to sustainable customer experience frameworks, demonstrating how creative sectors can drive meaningful financial inclusion. By connecting commercial enterprise with community advancement, she models responsible leadership, inspires young creatives, and provides clear evidence that passion-led businesses can successfully foster economic self-reliance, social dignity, and long-term community impact.