The People & The Purpose

Our founder, Fatmata Jibateh, grew up in Sierra Leone, where she experienced the civil war and was forced to leave as a refugee. Though she built a new life in Canada, family and a piece of her heart remain in Sierra Leone. She pursued education in Canada, achieving a Masters in Social Work. Her education, lived experience and work building community in Canada, have created a leader dedicated to uplifting girls and women, and to creating spaces where they can support one another.

Alongside her, Michelle Ball, a Canadian born social worker and close friend helps guide and grow the organization. With a background in community work and social justice, she brings both professional experience and a deep commitment to equity.

All our paid staff are Sierra Leonean - people living and working in the very communities we serve. We also create volunteer opportunities for girls in our programs, ensuring that every investment supports local capacity, skill-building and economic growth. Unlike many organizations that rely on external staffing, every dollar (or Leone) goes back into Sierra Leone.

Our leadership team is entirely volunteer and travels to Sierra Leone regularly to provide oversight, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that every program stays true to our mission and values.

At its core, Intercommunity is about possibility: teaching girls to lift each other up, ensuring access to education, and spreading hope across borders.