A US-based young Gambian has been honoured by the American president for outstanding voluntary service in his community.

Ousman JC Darboe, who moved to the USA in 2011 to further his education, received the President’s Volunteer Service Award from President Barack Obama at a special event held at the Madison College on Wednesday, December 7.

Stunned by the award, Ousman wrote on Facebook: “I’m very honored and humbled to receive the most prestigious volunteer service award (President's Volunteer Service Award).”

He added: “It's really important to give back to the community. Serving in my community did not only help me to connect with great leaders and influential people, but it also helped me to see life through other people's eyes.

According to him, he grew up in a big family and learned from a very young age how to care for others. ‘This is what I carried with me to the USA.”

“I will thank my family both in the United States and The Gambia, friends, colleagues, mentors, and advisers for their wonderful support and encouragement. I cannot forget to say big thank you to Volunteer Center of Madison College and Urban League of Greater Madison Young Professionals for giving me the platform to contribute my quarter to the attainment of national development.”

The President's Volunteer Service Award is a civil award bestowed by the President of the United States. Established by executive order by George W. Bush, the award was established to honor volunteers that give hundreds of hours per year helping others.