I am Mariama Marie Kargbo, the founder of Bright Horizons Youth Development Organization (BHYDO). My journey began in Sierra Leone, a nation of resilience and beauty, but one that has endured the scars of civil war. Growing up in this environment, I witnessed the struggles of families torn apart, young people robbed of opportunity, and communities striving to rebuild amidst trauma. These experiences shaped me profoundly, instilling both empathy and a determination to create change.

After the war, I relocated to Canada, carrying with me the memories of Sierra Leone and the hope of new beginnings. Over the past 25 years, I have worked with people of all ages in Canada—supporting communities through housing initiatives, youth engagement programs, and social services. These experiences gave me practical tools and a broader perspective on how mentorship, education, and compassion can transform lives.

Today, as I pursue studies to become an international social worker, I am building a bridge between my two homes: Canada, where I gained knowledge and skills, and Sierra Leone, where my roots and heart remain. This bridge is Bright Horizons Youth Development Organization—a nonprofit rooted in healing, advocacy, and hope. It is my promise to uplift youth through education, mentorship, and creativity, empowering them to discover their potential and become leaders in their communities.

Sierra Leone’s young population faces immense challenges: unemployment, limited access to psychosocial support, and the lingering effects of trauma. Yet, I believe in their strength, resilience, and capacity to lead. BHYDO exists to provide structured counselling, life skills training, and mentorship circles that equip youth with the tools they need to thrive emotionally, socially, and economically.

This organization is more than a project—it is a legacy. It is my way of giving back to my home country, using the knowledge I have acquired abroad to build a stronger, more resilient generation of young people in Sierra Leone. Every program we launch, every mentorship we provide, and every safe space we create is a step toward a brighter horizon for youth who deserve opportunity, dignity, and hope.

Together, with the support of donors, volunteers, and partners, we can transform futures—one young person at a time.