Mamadou was born in a small town in central Guinea called Gongore. It was difficult for his father to financially support his family, so Mamadou learned at an early age that you have to work hard in order to succeed. Eventually he moved to the United States to find work and education.
When Mamadou arrived in the United States he did not speak any English. While this was a huge obstacle, his determination didn’t waver, and he quickly progressed through the ESOL programs at El Centro and Labouré Adult Education Programs.
Guinea contends with poverty, government corruption, a lack of medical equipment and personnel, and infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, and cholera. Mamadou grew painfully aware of the poor state of Guinea’s healthcare system when it affected his own family. His aunt died from complications after an unnecessary and incorrect surgery, and his cousin developed an infection from a shot and ultimately lost the ability to walk. Witnessing these preventable tragedies, Mamadou decided to pursue a nursing degree so people like his aunt and cousin can have access to the competent medical care they deserve.
With the help of a First Literacy Scholarship, Mamadou is getting one step closer to his dream of earning a nursing degree, so he can help provide everyone with the healthcare they deserve.