Sona Jobarteh is a renowned Gambian musician, kora virtuoso, singer, and composer from The Gambia. Born in London to a Gambian family, she’s a member of one of West Africa’s five principal kora-playing griot families. Sona is known for blending traditional African music with modern styles, promoting Gambian culture, and advocating for educational reform.

Some of her notable achievements include:

– *Music Career*: She’s released several albums, including “Afro-Acoustic Soul,” “Fasiya,” and “Badinyaa Kumoo,” which won the Songlines Music Award for Best Album in 2022.

– *Film Scores*: Sona composed music for films like “Motherland” and “Beast,” starring Idris Elba, for which she wrote the song “N’na Duniyaa.”

– *Awards and Recognition*: She received an honorary Doctorate Degree in Music from Berklee College of Music, becoming the first female kora player to achieve this honor.

– *The Gambia Academy*: Sona founded this institution to promote educational reform, cultural identity, and African values in Gambian schools.

– *Cultural Ambassador*: She’s a Roaming Ambassador for the Gambia Tourism Board, promoting Gambian culture and tourism globally.

Sona Jobarteh’s contributions to music, education, and cultural advocacy have earned her international recognition, making her a celebrated figure in Gambian and African music.