Hawa Dramé is a Franco-Guinean biologist and philanthropist, founder of the International Foundation Tierno and Mariam (FITIMA), who has dedicated her career to social inclusion and community development in West Africa. Born in France and raised between Côte d'Ivoire and Guinea, she earned a Master's degree in Molecular Biochemistry and Genetics before committing herself to supporting people with disabilities.
A pioneer in the field, she has implemented innovative programs in Burkina Faso and Guinea, providing education, rehabilitation, and support to hundreds of families. Internationally recognized, she has received several awards, including the Order of Merit of Burkina Faso and the Franco-German Human Rights Prize, symbolizing her remarkable commitment to empowering vulnerable people and promoting social development.
Introduction
Hawa Dramé is a biologist, researcher, and philanthropist born in France, whose exceptional career exemplifies a deep commitment to social inclusion and community development in West Africa. Her remarkable journey has made her a leading figure in supporting people with disabilities and a recognized leader in the field of social development.
Education
Born in France, Hawa Dramé experienced an international upbringing. Her early schooling took place in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, where her father served as Guinea's ambassador. She completed her primary education at the Mafanco School and the Place des Martyrs School, continuing her secondary studies at the Boulbinet School.
Her academic path naturally led her toward the sciences. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Cocody in Côte d'Ivoire before pursuing further studies in France. There, she obtained a Master's degree in Molecular Biochemistry and Genetics, complementing her education with studies in sociobiology, management, and social marketing.
Professional Career
Hawa Dramé's professional career is marked by a steadfast commitment to health and social inclusion. She played a key role in establishing the French Federation of Patient Associations, particularly within the Rare Diseases Alliance. At the European level, she contributed to the development of the European Organization of Patients' Associations for Rare Diseases, holding a strategic position in therapeutic development.
In September 2009, she launched an innovative project: the West African Network for the Management of Myopathies (ROAMY), bringing together members from six countries in the region. In April 2012, she established and coordinated the Center for Aid, Integration, and Reintegration (CAIRE) in Conakry, Guinea. Simultaneously, she worked as a consultant for reputable international organizations such as WHO and UNICEF.
International Foundation Tierno and Mariam (FITIMA)
In 2003, Hawa Dramé founded the International Foundation Tierno and Mariam (FITIMA) in Burkina Faso, with two main objectives: supporting children with disabilities and promoting community development, particularly women's rights.
FITIMA quickly gained significant recognition, achieving NGO status in Burkina Faso. After seven years of success, Hawa Dramé replicated the model in her home country, Guinea. In 2013, FITIMA was named the best NGO by a collective of Guinean associations.
To date, FITIMA has achieved remarkable milestones. As of 2024, the organization has:
- Supported 300 families
- Trained 50 students in physiotherapy
- Welcomed 278 patients
- Assisted 40 specialized students
Awards and Recognitions
Hawa Dramé's outstanding contribution has been acknowledged through several prestigious awards:
- Order of Merit of Burkina Faso (2008)
- Winner of the Franco-German Human Rights Prize
- Woman Leader of Excellence in Guinea (2015)
Personal Life
Although details about her private life are limited, it is evident that Hawa Dramé is driven by a profound passion for social service and inclusion. Her journey reveals a determined woman capable of transforming challenges into opportunities for vulnerable communities.
Conclusion
Hawa Dramé embodies excellence and social commitment. Her work transcends borders, offering hope and opportunities to people with disabilities in West Africa. Through FITIMA, she has not only developed concrete programs for assistance and rehabilitation but has also helped reshape societal perspectives on disability.
Her current project to create a reference center in Guinea symbolizes her ongoing vision: to build a more inclusive society where every individual, regardless of ability, can reach their full potential.
