Supporting, mentoring, and empowering young lives.

Support & Mentor Foundation (SMF) is a non-governmental, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the well-being, protection, and empowerment of vulnerable children and young people in The Gambia.

SMF youth and community members gathered together in The Gambia

Our vision

A society where every child can grow with dignity.

We envision a society in which every child and young person — regardless of background, gender, ability, or socio-economic status — is protected from harm, supported to grow with dignity, and given equal opportunities to reach their full potential.

This vision reflects our commitment to social justice, inclusion, and the belief that every young person has inherent value and the right to a safe, supportive environment in which to thrive.

Our mission

Comprehensive, sustainable support for the long term.

We support, mentor, and empower children and young people through interventions that address both immediate needs and long-term development.

We improve access to quality education, strengthen child-protection systems, and equip young people with the life skills to make informed decisions and build independent, productive lives. Through mentorship, psychosocial support, and guidance, we foster confidence, resilience, leadership, and positive values.

SMF staff conducting a community outreach survey in The Gambia

Our aims

What we set out to achieve.

A set of interconnected aims designed to promote the holistic development of children and young people.

Educational support

Scholarships, learning materials, tutoring, and school-retention initiatives that keep children in education.

Life skills & leadership

Leadership development, entrepreneurship, and vocational training to enhance employability and self-reliance.

Protection from harm

Shielding children from abuse, exploitation, neglect, and harmful practices through awareness, advocacy, and engagement.

Inclusion & equal participation

Promoting the inclusion of marginalized and disadvantaged groups, ensuring no child or young person is left behind.

SMF team engaging with community elders and local leaders in The Gambia

Community-based

Sustainable change through local ownership.

We recognize that lasting change is best achieved through collaboration. We work closely with families, community leaders, government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners.

Together we design and implement programs that respond to local needs while aligning with national and global development priorities — building resilient communities that protect children now and into the future.

We remain committed to creating lasting positive impact, nurturing hope, and empowering the next generation to lead meaningful, dignified, and productive lives.

Mustapha Bah
Secretary General, Support & Mentor Foundation

Help us reach more young people.

Join a community of supporters investing in the safety, education, and futures of Gambian children.

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