Mabindu Sherif is an incoming First Year student at Babson College. Originally from Monrovia, Liberia, Mabindu was raised by her extended family: her father, a former teacher turned peace builder after Liberia’s civil war; her mother, a petty trader; and her cousin. Despite significant economic challenges, she earned full scholarships and graduated as the valedictorian of her class at Muslim Congress High School.

Mabindu is an active community member and leader. In 2021, she served as president of the Go Girls Lead Mentorship Program Cohort 2, an initiative under Books Before Boys and Libpedia. In 2022, she coordinated a quizzing tournament in her community (Rock Spring Valley) to promote educational activities and encourage youth aged 13-18 to engage in intellectual pursuits.

During high school, Mabindu served as the speaker for the student government and led a project to renovate the school cafeteria. As captain of her school’s debate team, she developed strong public speaking and leadership skills. At home, she supported her nephew and niece with their lessons, offering guidance in areas where they struggled.

As a SHE-CAN scholar, Mabindu completed a Take the Lead project titled Increasing Awareness of the Plight of Blind Children, where she raised funds to provide tables and renovate ceilings at the Liberian Christian Association of the Blind. She also hosted a SHE-CAN info session at the embassy to inspire other young women to apply.

At Babson, Mabindu is actively involved in campus life. She is a member of the Babson Muslim Students Association, the Babson Speech and Debate Club, and serves as the Freshman Representative for the Babson African Students Association.

Mabindu aspires to become a successful lawyer advocating for the restoration of rights, particularly for women and girls in Liberia. Her ultimate dream is to become the next president of Liberia and a philanthropist dedicated to making a positive impact on her country.