Merritt Frey, Executive Director
Merritt joined Mali Rising as our Executive Director in February 2015. Merritt coordinates fundraising and communications activities for Mali Rising, and oversees program operations.
Merritt brings nearly twenty-five years of experience in clean water issues and nonprofit management to Mali Rising. Her experience includes work at the Union of Concerned Scientists, Natural Resources Defense Council, Utah Rivers Council, and River Network.
Merritt lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with her beloved dogs Arrow and Jack and a very grumpy cat, Daisy.
Hindaty Traore, Girls Project Manager
Before being hired in August 2016, Hindaty was a volunteer intern with Mali Rising Foundation for nearly two years, demonstrating an amazing commitment to our students.
Hindaty’s background is perfect for working with students in our remote schools – although born in Bamako (the large capitol city), Hindaty spent part of her childhood in a small village just like our villages. She then returned to Bamako and received a bachelors’ degree before joining Mali Rising. Hindaty coordinates our Girls Project, serving as the main face of the project with the girls and the villagers.
Adama Kone, Teachers' Project Manager
Adama joined Mali Rising in 2019 as our Teachers’ Project Coordinator. Previously, Adama was an English teacher in a small, rural school…just like our schools. This means Adama is very well -positioned to help our teachers because he really understands the challenges they face.
Adama coordinates our annual teacher training, host regular peer meetings for teachers and principals, and provides tools and materials our teachers need to succeed. Adama also serves as our primary translator — putting his English skills to great use.
Adama lives in Bamako with his wife and four children, including a new pair of twins who arrived just as Adama joined Mali Rising!
Fatoumata Kone, Operations Coordinator
After serving as an intern for several years, Fatoumata joined our staff full-time in 2023 as the Operations Coordinator.
Fatoumata’s role is a diverse one. She keeps our Mali office running smoothly by coordinating all administrative activities. She also oversees our school construction contractors, coordinates our Alumni Networks, and monitors our Inspiration Scholarship students and their progress. Fatoumata is also our chief data collector.
