Team

Bintu Kabba is a Guinean-American educator, author, and global community builder with over 19 years of experience in the education and youth development space. She is the visionary Curator of the Illuminated Goddess Retreat, a transformative wellness experience designed to empower women around the world.

Bintu began her journey in education as an assistant teacher in Washington, D.C.'s charter schools, where she developed a deep understanding of classroom dynamics and the need for equitable learning environments. Her passion for youth development led her to roles such as Youth Development Coordinator at the West Philadelphia Boys and Girls Club and later with the Epilepsy Foundation of Pennsylvania, where she honed her expertise in special education, inclusion practices, and holistic program development.

Her love for education and leadership eventually led her to become a teacher and later an assessment coordinator, roles in which she worked to elevate student achievement through data-informed strategies and instructional coaching. Bintu is also a published author of several books, including educational guides and inspirational resources.

Currently residing in Doha, Qatar, Bintu is the founder of Blacks in Qatar, a growing networking community and resource hub for Black professionals and people of color looking to live and work in the Middle East/Gulf region. Through this platform, she creates spaces for connection, cultural exchange, and empowerment for the Black diaspora abroad.

Her passion for global service is equally reflected in her years of volunteer work in Koforidua, Ghana, where she facilitated youth conferences and workshops, deepening her commitment to global education and empowerment. She is the founder of Global Youth Consulting LLC, an organization that supports youth and adult wellness retreats, educational program design, mentorship, and community outreach.

Bintu holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Howard University and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Phoenix. When she’s not leading retreats, teaching, or building communities, you’ll find her writing, traveling, and dreaming up the next big way to uplift and inspire others.

Mawuena Deegbe is a passionate Creative Director from Accra, Ghana with a love for nature, creativity, and innovation. Her journey as a Creative Director began with her deep appreciation for the beauty of nature and her desire to make a positive impact on the world. Growing up surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Ghana, she developed a profound connection with the environment, which fueled her passion for creativity and innovation. 

With a diverse background in Journalism, tourism, and management, Mawuena possesses a unique set of skills that allows her to approach projects from multiple angles. Her ability to tell compelling stories through various mediums has earned her recognition as a powerful storyteller, captivating audiences and inspiring change.

Driven by her belief in the power of storytelling, Mawuena is on a mission to inspire and connect with others through her extensive network. She believes that every individual has a story worth sharing and aims to bring these stories to life, creating a ripple effect of inspiration and unity. Outside of her professional endeavors, Mawuena dedicates her time to nurturing the next generation of environmental warriors.

Through her personal projects, she empowers young children to become guardians of the planet, instilling in them a deep sense of responsibility towards the Earth. Her dedication to this cause is a testament to her unwavering commitment to making a lasting difference in the world.

When she's not busy shaping the creative landscape, you can find Mawuena embarking on thrilling adventures, exploring uncharted territories, and immersing herself in different cultures. Her insatiable curiosity fuels her desire to seek new experiences, broaden her horizons, and fuel her creative spirit.In her downtime, Mawuena finds solace in the kitchen, experimenting with unique recipes and flavors. Additionally, she finds solace in the pages of a good book, where she can escape reality and immerse herself in the captivating worlds created by talented authors.