About Ib

A Civil War Survivor and Refugee

The hardships I experienced during the first 16 years of my life is a reminder of how hard it is to be a child caught in the middle of adults’ conflict.

I lost my father at the age of 3. A few years later, I lost a father figure and mentor due to the brutal civil war in my native country of Sierra Leone.

My brother and I then fled by boat through the rough waters of the Atlantic Ocean to The Gambia where I struggled with self-esteem and adjusting to my new home.

It’s these experiences that I use to inspire students, parents, and caring adults–to remind them about the strength that lies within them.

Turned Journalist

At the age of 14, I found myself living in The Gambia as a refugee, with nothing but a dream to make a positive impact on the world. It was then that I made a decision to stop feeling sorry for myself and instead focus on finding the good in every situation.

With unwavering determination and a burning passion to make a difference, I set out to spread hope through my writing. It was this passion that led me to become the Africa correspondent for a large international internet media company located in New York at the age of 17.

As time went on, my voice grew louder and my message became even more impactful. I soon found myself as the Africa Editor for the leading international soccer website, where I shared inspiring stories about the impact of war and the power of football in Africa.

Through it all, I never lost sight of my mission to inspire and uplift others. That’s why I launched the Ib Talk Online platform, a place where I continued to share stories of hope, encouragement, and inspiration with the world.

And today, my work has been published in numerous newspapers and international magazines, reaching people from all walks of life and spreading a message of positivity and possibility.

Determined to Achieve Academic Success

Perseverance. Motivation. These qualities are essential for success, but as students, we often face difficulties and setbacks that can make it hard to maintain them.

As an international student, there were many times when I struggled to keep going. From adapting to American English from British English to struggling with my coursework due to my undiagnosed disability at the time.

There were many times when giving up seemed like the easier option, but in the end, I achieved success.

The tools and strategies that helped me as a student I’m now sharing with our youth.

Making an Impact as a Hearing Health Advocate across the World

Our struggles and limitations can only define us if we allow them to.

Back in 2013, I was diagnosed with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss—a diagnosis of a disability I was quietly tackling on my own for many years unknowingly. But one that impacted me emotionally. 

Thanks to God and my family, I was determined not to let my hearing loss be an excuse but a tool I could use to become an influential leader.

I have been appointed by the governor of Georgia as a commissioner for the Georgia Commission for the Deaf or Hard of Hearing and serve on the board of directors of the Hearing Loss Association of America to advocate for access, equity, and opportunity for deaf and hard of hearing in America.

Delivering A Message of Hope: Empowering Others to Find Purpose and Overcome Adversity

As a testament to my personal journey of overcoming adversity, I strive to inspire individuals to dream big and persevere. Through my motivational speeches, I aim to instill hope and courage in both students and adults alike.

In addition to speaking engagements, I host the highly regarded Purpose Graciously Revealed podcast. This platform allows me to interview exceptional leaders and individuals who have defied the odds and embraced a purposeful life. Their inspiring stories and valuable insights resonate with listeners from diverse backgrounds.

1

To Inspire

The stories I share are personal and encourage students to tackle their challenges with resilience and hope.

2

To Encourage

My message focus on motivating students to never give up on their dreams, no matter how hard they seem.

3

To Uplift

I strive to leave every student feeling inspired and more confident to take on whatever comes their way.