AYV News, December 9, 2025
A powerful message by rising media star and journalist, Memunatu Suma of the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire, has taken social media by storm – challenging stereotypes and empowering young Muslim women across Sierra Leone and beyond.
Suma, a proud Hijabi and one of AYV’s standout reporters and TV presenters, recently emerged as the Best Graduating Student from the Faculty of Communication, Media and Information Studies at Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone.
At the 2024/2025 graduation ceremony, Suma walked away with not one, but two prestigious awards: Best Graduating Student in Public Relations and Marketing Communications and the coveted Dean’s Award for Overall Best Performance in her department.
In what is now a viral quote, Suma declared, “I hope you now know that it is not her BRAIN that is covered, but her HEAD.”
This statement has resonated with many, especially young women who feel pressured to compromise their faith or identity for societal acceptance. Suma said her goal is to redefine the narrative surrounding the Hijab and inspire Muslim girls to embrace it with pride and purpose.
“This message is to remind Muslim women that wearing the Hijab is not just a tradition, but a divine command,” she said. “It represents obedience to Allah, spiritual strength, and self-respect. It is about modesty, unity, and focus – not limitation.”
With a BA (Hons) in Public Relations and Marketing Communications, Memunatu Suma continues to rise as both a media professional and role model, breaking barriers for Muslim women in the public space.
Her journey is a shining example that modesty and excellence are not mutually exclusive – and that the Hijab is a crown, not a cage.
