WYDI Board
Board of Directors
Governance and stewardship from leaders supporting the organization’s long-term direction.
Board Chairperson
Frances D. Blanyon
Frances Diamond Blanyon is a renewable energy researcher, engineer, and development leader with expertise in governance, advocacy, and community-based initiatives across Africa. She is currently pursuing an MSc in Mechatronic Engineering at the Pan-African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation (PAUSTI), hosted at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in Kenya.
Her work focuses on applying artificial intelligence and data-driven methods to renewable energy systems, particularly long-term forecasting for run-of-river hydropower, to support sustainable planning in developing communities. In addition to her technical background, Frances brings strong leadership experience from executive and advisory roles within diaspora and community organizations in East Africa.
She is a passionate advocate for women, youth, and children and is deeply committed to education, empowerment, ethical leadership, accountability, and advancing inclusive and sustainable development for lasting impact.
Her work focuses on applying artificial intelligence and data-driven methods to renewable energy systems, particularly long-term forecasting for run-of-river hydropower, to support sustainable planning in developing communities. In addition to her technical background, Frances brings strong leadership experience from executive and advisory roles within diaspora and community organizations in East Africa.
She is a passionate advocate for women, youth, and children and is deeply committed to education, empowerment, ethical leadership, accountability, and advancing inclusive and sustainable development for lasting impact.
Board Vice Chairperson
Cece Muna Nimely
Madam Cece Muna Nimely-(BPA-PADM) is a Social Justice Advocate, a Community Volunteer, an Administrator, an Entrepreneur, and a mother. She has earned over ten years of professional experience in civic engagement, community organizing, grassroots democracy enhancement, and community-based strengthening.
She is multitasking, with a track record of achieving exceptional results.
She has used her experience and skills to mentored and coached over a hundreds of young women, and has facilitated over 200 community engagement events that enhanced the capacity of over 5,000 youth in and out of Liberia.
She is a legal member of the National Civil Society Council of Liberia, Women for Justice, the Movement against rape amounts others.
Madam Nimely is a distinct Fellow of West African Young Leaders(WayLead) Fellowship and many others.
She's the Founder and Co-founder of many institutions and businesses some of which include The Muna Group, the CMN Enterprises, The Girls & Boys Ambitions Liberia Organization, the Impact Girls Organization, the National Young Women Political Council of Liberia among others.
She is multitasking, with a track record of achieving exceptional results.
She has used her experience and skills to mentored and coached over a hundreds of young women, and has facilitated over 200 community engagement events that enhanced the capacity of over 5,000 youth in and out of Liberia.
She is a legal member of the National Civil Society Council of Liberia, Women for Justice, the Movement against rape amounts others.
Madam Nimely is a distinct Fellow of West African Young Leaders(WayLead) Fellowship and many others.
She's the Founder and Co-founder of many institutions and businesses some of which include The Muna Group, the CMN Enterprises, The Girls & Boys Ambitions Liberia Organization, the Impact Girls Organization, the National Young Women Political Council of Liberia among others.
CEO/Board Secretary
Watta A. Kerkula-Weah
Watta A. Kerkula-Weah is a passionate Liberian leader with over eight years of professional experience in administration, social development, youth empowerment, and gender advocacy. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration (BPA) from the United Methodist University (UMU) and has served in key roles across nonprofit, public, and private sectors.
As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Women & Youth Development International, she leads a bold mission to empower women and youth through strategic programs focused on economic empowerment, gender-based violence prevention and response, legal justice and human rights, gender equality and women's rights, food security and sustainable agriculture, and advocacy and civic engagement. Her leadership is rooted in community service, human rights, and innovation, making her a strong voice for equity, inclusion, and transformative change in Liberia.
As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Women & Youth Development International, she leads a bold mission to empower women and youth through strategic programs focused on economic empowerment, gender-based violence prevention and response, legal justice and human rights, gender equality and women's rights, food security and sustainable agriculture, and advocacy and civic engagement. Her leadership is rooted in community service, human rights, and innovation, making her a strong voice for equity, inclusion, and transformative change in Liberia.
Board Member
Tracy T. Mayson
Tracy T. Mayson is a public health professional and social development advocate with a strong background in community health, governance, and leadership. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Health with a concentration in community health and epidemic control, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology.
Her professional development includes certifications in governance, leadership and development, anger management, counseling, and cargo and ticketing from the Sabrina Airline School of Travel and Tourism.
Tracy is passionate about promoting positive social change, community well-being, and personal development. She brings a diverse range of experiences in public engagement, communication, and advocacy.
Beyond her professional work, she is actively involved in media and entertainment as a red-carpet host, content creator, social influencer, and actress. Known for her dedication, creativity, and commitment to empowering others, Tracy contributes valuable insight and leadership to initiatives that advance community development and social impact.
Her professional development includes certifications in governance, leadership and development, anger management, counseling, and cargo and ticketing from the Sabrina Airline School of Travel and Tourism.
Tracy is passionate about promoting positive social change, community well-being, and personal development. She brings a diverse range of experiences in public engagement, communication, and advocacy.
Beyond her professional work, she is actively involved in media and entertainment as a red-carpet host, content creator, social influencer, and actress. Known for her dedication, creativity, and commitment to empowering others, Tracy contributes valuable insight and leadership to initiatives that advance community development and social impact.
Board Member
Menekelee Saylo Johnson
Menekelee Saylo Johnson is a dynamic Board Member of Women & Youth Development International, combining technical expertise in data analytics, digital marketing, and content creation with a strong commitment to social impact. He is currently pursuing a degree in Management and Public Administration and brings a modern, innovation-driven perspective to the organization. As a social entrepreneur and freelance editor, he empowers individuals and communities through purposeful communication and youth-focused initiatives. On the WYDI Board, he leads efforts in digital strategy, media advocacy, and data-driven programming. Menekelee's grassroots training and visionary leadership make him a driving force for inclusive, measurable, and technology-powered change.
Interested in Our Leadership?
Learn more about the executive team driving WYDI’s programs and impact.