Sona JobartehGambia |1983| OtherSona Jobarteh is a musician, lecturer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist from Gambia, and the first professional female Kora virtuoso from a prestigious West African Griot family.
Breaking a seven-century tradition of passing the hereditary role from father to son, she addresses cultural identity, gender, love, and respect while staying rooted in her heritage.
She has achieved international success for her instrumental skills and has performed at prestigious venues and festivals worldwide.
In 2015, she founded the Gambia Academy to reform African education by integrating local culture and history into the curriculum. As a social activist and speaker, she contributes significantly to both music and education.
Notably, Sona also lectures globally on Mande music, history, and social anthropology, challenging traditional views on African studies.
