Ajara Marie Bomah is a seasoned professional with over 18 years of experience in business development, media communications, and diaspora engagement. She is the founder of Women Mean Business (WMB), a consulting firm that bridges cultural and operational gaps for international businesses exploring African and Diasporan markets. Under her leadership, WMB has built a reputation for its holistic approach—combining deep local knowledge with global best practices to drive inclusive and sustainable growth. The firm actively facilitates strategic partnerships, manages implementation processes, and crafts communications that resonate with local audiences. With strong relationships across government, private sector, and community stakeholders, WMB has become a trusted partner for impactful market entry and development initiatives in the region.
A humanitarian at heart, Ajara holds a master’s degree in clinical social work and has dedicated her life to transforming the lives of young people—especially girls—across Africa. Upon returning to Sierra Leone, she committed herself to national rebuilding by nurturing local talent, mentoring youth, and empowering women and girls. She currently serves as the volunteer Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Youth Advocate Program (SLYAP), where she applies her clinical background to support youth through advocacy, mental health awareness, and life skills development. The initiative promotes civic participation and leadership among young Sierra Leoneans.
Ajara’s work spans collaboration with governments, NGOs, and international organizations—driven by a shared commitment to inclusive development rooted in equity, opportunity, and well-being. She is recognized for her visionary leadership and continues to inspire the next generation by creating platforms for innovation and sustainable growth. She has served in influential roles with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Power Women 232—a network focused on women’s empowerment and community impact—and the African Women Leadership Academy.
Ajara is a 2024 Vital Voices Visionary Fellow, President of the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter, and was named one of the 50 Most Influential Sierra Leoneans. Her work has been instrumental in advancing youth leadership, gender advocacy, and digital innovation across Africa and the U.S.
An advocate for digital inclusion, Ajara leverages technology to tackle societal challenges and create economic opportunities for women and youth. Through her leadership at the Internet Society, she champions digital access and capacity building in Sierra Leone. She also engages in public speaking, business coaching, and development training connecting emerging African entrepreneurs to new markets and sharing her expertise with audiences across U.S. college campuses.
Ajara has been featured in numerous local and international media outlets and co-starred in the award-winning documentary “Am I Too African to Be American or Too American to Be African?” She believes in embodying the change she wants to see and plays an active role in shaping Sierra Leone’s development through service and mentorship.
She currently serves on the boards of She Can, We Can SL, the Afromeric School of Cosmetology, the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, and the Sierra Leone Electricity and Distribution Agency. She also serves as the Executive Coordinator for the British Chamber of Commerce Sierra Leone.
A passionate changemaker, Ajara has played a key role in launching several high-impact initiatives including the Women on Boards Network SL, Big Sister SL Empowerment Show, She Who Builds, and the Women Mean Business Honors.
In her personal time, Ajara enjoys traveling and cherishing meaningful moments with her vibrant daughter, family, and close friends.
