Abdulai Deadehwai Swaray hails from Sierra Leone, a dedicated family man and proud father. He is the founder and Executive Director of the Pikin-To-Pikin Movement, a Child-Centered Community Development Non-Governmental Organisation. The name “Pikin-To-Pikin” translates from the local lingua franca to mean “Child-to-Child.”

The origins of Pikin-To-Pikin Movement date back to 1994, a period of severe rebel warfare in Sierra Leone. It later achieved legal recognition as a Non-Governmental Organisation in 1998, registered with the Sierra Leone government under the Ministry of Development and Economic Planning.

Abdulai is a well-established Social Worker and Development Practitioner, boasting over a quarter-century’s experience in development programmes. He is well-versed in the implementation of programs aimed at improving the lives of community members, especially women and children, both at the policy and operational levels.

Pikin-To-Pikin is a longstanding member of SLANGO, adhering strictly to the organisation’s rules and regulations. Abdulai has accepted his nomination for the position of the Board Chair, confident in the extensive experience his organisation brings to the table. He understands the workings of SLANGO, its achievements, and challenges.

In the past, Abdulai has provided valuable leadership as Board Chair for organisations such as WANEP-SL and the Children Advocacy Forum (CAF). In his role as Board Chair, he would ensure the secretariat functions effectively, overseeing the correct management of the organisation in close collaboration with the head of the secretariat and the general membership.

Given the opportunity to lead SLANGO, Abdulai is poised to bring about transformative change in the organisation. Armed with the skills, strengths, talents, and a wealth of professional achievements, he stands prepared to steer the ship and foster a conducive environment for the operation of NGOs in Sierra Leone.

Having worked as a National NGO Executive Director for over 25 years, Abdulai is no stranger to the challenges faced by NNGOs in the country. He aims to provide the necessary leadership to create an environment conducive for NNGOs to operate and realize their full potential. He is committed to working with INGOs, other development partners, and the Government to decolonize aid in Sierra Leone. His enthusiasm for continual learning makes him an excellent candidate for the SLANGO Board.