Ndey Darboe, the co-owner of Barth and Darboe Enterprise, is one of the few women players in the construction sector of The Gambia. In this interview, the passionately authentic 22-year-old speaks on her story, starting with her education background.

What’s On-Gambia: Tell us briefly about yourself?

Ndey:My name is Ndey Darboe. I am 22 years old and I attended Gambia Senior Secondary School and proceeded to the Gambia Technical Training Institute where I studied building construction.

Why construction?

The construction field should not be preserved for only men. I love challenges and that was what motivated me to enrol with GTTI. Since I was little, I always wanted to work in the technical fields. People who know me will attest to that. I am a creative person.

It is sad that many women in our country are not interesting in the skilled trades. In my class, we were only six girls out of 60 students.

You recently opened a shop in Sukuta (Mariama Kunda Junction).

Yes, I did! It is called Barth and Darboe Enterprise. I started it with a friend in Germany. He is a German who wants to invest in the country. He also wants to support me in my construction career.

What do you sell in your shop?

General building materials. We also rent Agro-Jack and plywood.

How does it feel to be among the few young women in the construction field?

(Laughs) It makes me feel great. I love what I do. It suits me and I want to be different. I hope to inspire more women to join the field.

Is your family supportive?

Oh yes! They know they can’t stop me (laughs).

What message do you have for young women who think construction is for men?

We can do anything if we set our mind on it. In other parts of the world, women are doing extremely well in the field. There are a lot of job opportunities in construction. I would encourage them to come and join me.