Attention: This is an in-depth post dedicated to an individual with an impressive array of accomplishments and a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire.
Fatoumatta: Awa Sey (Tuculor): A Beacon of Pro-Democracy Activism and Leadership: Awa Sey Tuculor, renowned as the “Social Media Brigadier General,” stands as a powerful symbol in the Gambian fight against dictatorship and the quest for democratic restoration. Throughout her remarkable journey as an activist, Tuculor has unwaveringly represented the voice of the Gambian people, passionately advocating for good governance, women’s rights, justice, and the rule of law. Her fierce commitment to these principles sets her apart as a bold and inspiring leader in the relentless struggle for a brighter future in The Gambia.
Alagi Yorro Jallow.
Awa Sey, affectionately known as Tuculor Sey, embodies hope and resilience in the relentless pursuit of democracy and human rights in The Gambia. Her unwavering commitment to justice and fearless pro-democracy activism against Yahya Jammeh’s oppressive regime, along with her ongoing role as a democratic vanguard holding President Adama Barrow’s government accountable, have made a lasting impact on countless lives.
As we celebrate and honor Tuculor Sey and her remarkable legacy, we reflect on the profound influence she has had on many, inspiring a new generation of activists and leaders. This tribute captures the essence of Awa Sey’s journey and the enduring legacy she has forged. In celebrating extraordinary figures like Awa Sey, we recognize their unwavering dedication and monumental achievements that drive humanity’s progress.
Literature richly delves into the themes of fate and destiny, with insightful writers like Helena Lind observing that “the nature of humankind’s struggle for meaning and our more or less heroic quests to change or fulfill destiny have always been captivating aspects of the human experience.” It is no surprise that celebrated authors, poets, and creative minds draw inspiration from these profound themes, crafting masterpieces that provoke deep thought. One such masterpiece is Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” Like many great writers, Shakespeare grappled with the question of whether we are free agents or simply “victims” of a predetermined fate. At a critical moment, Macbeth contemplates fate, declaring, “If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me without my stir.” Instead of passively resigning to fate, Macbeth ultimately resolves to take action, realizing that he must actively participate in shaping his own destiny. This notion could very well be the driving force behind Tuckulor Sey’s unwavering commitment to pro-democracy activism within the Gambian Diaspora community—an inspiring choice to seize her own destiny. Although she has not yet achieved the status of a pro-democracy activist leader like Winnie Mandela, she comprehends that realizing one’s destiny demands relentless effort and determination.
It is fascinating how destiny often provides subtle hints to certain individuals, signaling what lies ahead. For others, like Tuckulor Sey, their rise from obscurity into a vibrant, purpose-driven life appears nearly miraculous. However, the reality is that these individuals labor tirelessly and unrecognized, like seeds nurturing below the surface before they finally surge into the light. Awa Tuckulor Sey has undoubtedly dedicated herself to hard work, and we wholeheartedly wish her success in her noble pursuits.
Fatoumatta: We lament the missed opportunities of those driven by fear and self-interest, who chose silence over action, becoming passive spectators in the face of injustice, oppression, and tyranny. By doing so, they allowed darkness to overshadow the fight for a brighter future. Awa Sey’s inspiring journey as a passionate pro-democracy activist and human rights advocate began with her courageous defiance against the oppressive regime of Yahya Jammeh. Her deft utilization of social media earned her the title of “Brigadier General” of Twitter, as she bravely unveiled corruption and human rights violations, garnering admiration and respect in the process. Some individuals enter our lives and leave an imprint that reverberates through time. Some we may know personally, while others may only be familiar through social media or tales shared by others.
Among these impactful figures are those whose footprints transform our hearts and minds, forever altering our paths. Awa Sey, fondly referred to as Tuculor Sey, is one of those extraordinary individuals who continues to leave a profound and lasting impact on many lives. Her advocacy, activism, mentorship, and unwavering character have significantly influenced countless young Gambians, particularly emerging activists, feminists, and human rights defenders. Awa Sey is not just a dedicated fighter for democracy; she is a civil society champion, a courageous voice for justice, and a patriotic citizen in every sense. From the outset, she has been steadfast in her pursuit of justice, advocating for the best interests of the Gambian people. She played a crucial role in various democracy and youth and women struggles against Yahya Jammeh’s tyranny and continues to hold the Adama Barrow government accountable. Through it all, she has remained resolute, refusing to submit to oppression or be silenced.
In the battle against Yahya Jammeh’s dictatorship, Awa Sey has consistently stood at the forefront, risking her life and freedom for the sake of justice. One cannot accurately recount the emergence of democracy in our time without prominently featuring Awa Tuculor Sey’s name. She embodies the spirit of unwavering commitment to freedom and the rule of law, demonstrating steadfast dedication to the Gambian people and playing a crucial role in various civil society initiatives. In the pursuit of personal and professional development, having a mentor who exemplifies integrity, wisdom, and selfless service is a rare gift. Awa Sey’s transformative leadership style reflects these virtues, guiding her throughout her illustrious career in The Gambia’s democratic struggle. Her extraordinary ability to inspire, not only through her powerful words but also through decisive actions, has profoundly impacted countless lives, particularly those of youth and women activists.
As a devoted mentor to both young girls and boys, I can confidently assert that I have never encountered a more tireless advocate against injustice and oppression than Awa Sey. Her leadership is marked by a compelling combination of vision and humility, empowering those around her to strive for excellence and lead with purpose. Through her relentless pro-democracy activism, Awa Sey has emerged as a guiding light, shaping future leaders who are well-equipped to confront the challenges of tomorrow. Her unwavering dedication to public service and her commitment to nurturing the next generation of change-makers stand as a powerful testament to her enduring legacy.
As John Quincy Adams wisely stated, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” This powerful sentiment beautifully embodies the essence of Awa Sey’s leadership. Through her unwavering commitment and inspiring actions, she ignites a passion in Gambians and many others, encouraging them to aspire to greater heights, deepen their knowledge, and serve their communities with unparalleled dedication. With immense pride and gratitude, we embrace the opportunity to learn and grow under her exceptional guidance. We strive not only to emulate her principles of leadership and service but to carry forward her remarkable legacy. Awa Sey’s mentorship transcends personal impact; it leaves an indelible mark on our society that will influence future generations. While Tuckulor has not held public office since the government change, her presence has been a steadfast beacon in our collective consciousness throughout the last two decades of democratic progress. She truly embodies the essence of citizenship—a passionate patriot who knows that her life is incomplete and her humanity truly meaningful only when she actively engages with fellow citizens to champion the common good of her community and nation.
Throughout the oppressive 22-year reign of Yahya Jammeh, Tuckulor Sey has emerged as a powerful advocate for change and a beacon of hope for those yearning for freedom. Her spirit embodies the principles outlined in Adam Grant’s influential book, “Give and Take,” which distinguishes between Givers and Takers. Givers are defined by their selflessness and unwavering commitment to uplifting others without seeking recognition, while Takers often prioritize their own interests. The book celebrates remarkable Givers such as C.J. Skender, the late Stu Inman, and George Meyer—individuals who exemplify altruism and service. Awa Sey stands out as a radiant example of these extraordinary Givers, inspiring countless individuals in the pursuit of justice and democracy.
As a trailblazer in pro-democracy activism within the Gambian diaspora in the United States, Awa Tuckulor Sey has dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the restoration of democratic governance in The Gambia while bravely opposing Yahya Jammeh’s oppressive regime. While we may have some disagreements with her political ideology and philosophical approach to activism, we, along with hundreds of thousands of admirers both in The Gambia and the global Gambian community, hold her in high esteem. She is a remarkable role model for both young and older pro-democracy activists and advocates for feminism and women empowerment. Moreover, the profound lessons we have learned from her tireless fight for democracy will continue to inspire and guide us, along with others, as we navigate our own struggles for justice. In a time when The Gambia desperately needs patriotic sons and daughters to reclaim the country from tyranny, Awa Sey’s legacy stands as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have in the relentless pursuit of freedom and democracy.
Fatoumatta: Awa Sey emerged as a powerful force in the everyday life of The Gambia, especially during a time when women rarely occupied leadership roles of her stature. Many pro-democracy advocates in the diaspora, myself included, were captivated by her through platforms such as the Gambia L and the Mighty Gambia Post before the explosion of social media like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok. As we navigated the dark days of Yahya Jammeh’s oppressive regime, we were fascinated by Awa Sey’s ability to command her position with remarkable purpose and unwavering conviction. We distinctly remember our active engagement on the Gambia L and the Mighty Gambia Post, and later on social media, where we marveled at her courage to articulate her views with such proficiency and eloquence. She captivated audiences during livestreams and on the Fatu Network, presenting her ideas with both authority and passion, and doing so in a landscape dominated by men. Even as young and somewhat inexperienced pro-democracy activists, we revered her principles and resolve. It was evident that Awa Sey was a dynamic woman reshaping the narrative around women’s roles, inspiring many—including myself—to delve deeper into questions of governance. Although we sometimes disagreed, our admiration for Awa Sey remained steadfast. It wasn’t until later in our life that we grasped the true depth of her impact on the Gambian struggle for democracy. When we finally had the chance to read her posts and commentaries, we were left in awe, realizing that we were engaging with someone we had long revered. Awa Sey is nothing short of a legend—a title few can claim. One of her most powerful attributes was her unwavering commitment to her principles. She displayed extraordinary courage, fearlessly standing by her beliefs in the face of public scrutiny. Her steadfast adherence to her core values was both her greatest strength and, perhaps, her greatest vulnerability. Beyond her remarkable presence, Awa Sey’s influence spanned many dimensions. She embodied the importance of diligence and a relentless pursuit of excellence. She did not suffer fools lightly and possessed an astute understanding of how to counter disapproval without wavering from her convictions. This was one of the most valuable lessons we learned from her. Her confidence in embracing her uniqueness inspired us to be unafraid of standing out and making our own choices. Awa Sey’s profound care for her people and commitment to her country were palpable; she believed deeply in the purpose of her endeavors for both The Gambia and her adopted homeland, the United States.
Fatoumatta: As one of the most impactful political activists and human rights defenders during the era of despot Yahya Jammeh and beyond, Awa Sey profoundly shaped the political landscape of The Gambia. Tuckulor Sey, as she is also known, embodies fierceness, determination, focus, and brilliance. She is an extraordinary and courageous woman, not merely because of her accomplishments as a woman in a challenging political environment, but because she uniquely dominated the opposition and evoked powerful emotions—both supportive and adversarial. Whether one agrees with her principles or not, it is unmistakable that an era concluded with the relentless pursuit of a dictator and the quest for accountable democracy.
Her legacy has profoundly shaped the politics of the Gambian diaspora and influenced countless colleagues. Tuckulor Sey’s radical and often confrontational approach not only defined her role in the Gambian struggle but also established her as a key figure in holding the current government of president Adama Barow accountable. Her fierce determination and refusal to engage in patronage politics, while making her a divisive figure, ultimately bolstered her effectiveness in promoting pro-democracy activities. Although her more controversial actions attracted criticism, the integrity and passion with which she pursued her aims are nothing short of inspiring. Those who knew her intimately paint a starkly different picture than the formidable public persona that the diaspora recognizes.
To the public, Tuckulor Sey is seen as an unyielding iron lady, fiercely loyal to her country, sometimes to the detriment of her relationships. Yet, in private, she was known for her warm sense of humor, kindness, and an extraordinary ability to make everyone around her feel valued and cherished. Over the twenty years I observed Tuckulor Sey’s engagement in political life, I personally, was consistently struck by a defining trait: her unwavering convictions and relentless pursuit of her dreams. She stood firm for what she believed in and embraced life’s opportunities with a grace that is truly admirable. The impact of extraordinary individuals often inspires us toward greatness. With her remarkable achievements and the ideals she represented, Tuckulor Sey exemplifies what it means to be a role model. Her life and work will undoubtedly resonate with future generations. Whether in her leadership style, steadfastness, or unwavering commitment to her cause, it is impossible to write the history of Gambian diaspora activism and politics without acknowledging Awa Sey—a figure whose legacy transcends the narrative of patriotism, conviction, and determination.
Fatoumatta: Awa Sey’s extraordinary journey from the vibrant communities of Basse and Banjul, particularly on Haddinton Street, to Brikama Lamin village and Gunjur is a testament to her inspiring spirit. Raised in a distinguished family that blends religious, political, and intellectual influences—most notably as the granddaughter of the late venerable Hatab Bojang—Awa was deeply immersed in a legacy that instilled in her a passionate commitment to governance. Her upbringing ignited a fierce determination to combat injustice, bad governance, exploitation, misogyny, sexism, and violence against both women and boys. This rich heritage not only fueled her curiosity but also provided her with invaluable knowledge and
that would pave the way for a transformative era of progressive leadership in The Gambia. Awa Sey truly embodies the spirit of resilience and strength, standing as a beacon of hope and empowerment. She played a pivotal role in The Gambia’s quest for democratization and good governance, making significant sacrifices that often went unrecognized. Her endeavors extend beyond mere political advocacy; they stem from a profound love for her country and its people, driving her relentless pursuit of a brighter future for all.
As a professional and a woman who values independence, I have drawn immense inspiration from her unwavering commitment, integrity, and the virtues she exemplified. Her legacy teaches us to embrace excellence, build resilience, and cultivate a sense of patriotism. I reflect on my journey—growing as an administrator, activist, wife, and mother—by leaning on the principles she so passionately advocated. The lessons she imparted will resonate with me and many others for a lifetime, especially her courageous fight during the Third Liberation of The Gambia. Like many, I will forever cherish the memories of Tukulor Sey. It is a privilege to have witnessed her extraordinary leadership and to have personally experienced her remarkable presence. Her dedication to restoring democracy has left an indelible mark on countless lives. We celebrate and honor Awa Sey, recognizing the profound impact she has had on our nation.
Fatoumatta: In conclusion, Awa Sey’s legacy is a powerful testament to courage, integrity, and an unyielding dedication to democracy and human rights. Her relentless efforts in the face of challenges have not only shaped the history of The Gambia but also inspired many to advocate for justice and truth. As we reflect on her extraordinary life and contribution, we are reminded of the transformative power of one individual’s determination to instigate change. Awa Sey’s spirit will continue to guide future generations, ensuring her legacy of justice and equality remains alive and vibrant. Today, we celebrate, honor, and pay tribute to Awa Sey—a heroine whose impact will forever resonate in our hearts and minds.
