Youssouf Barry

Youssouf Barry’s journey from humble beginnings as a cattle herder to becoming a prominent figure in Liberia’s financial sector and a respected humanitarian is a testament to his unwavering dedication and resilience. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting from the African Methodist Episcopal University, Youssouf has further honed his expertise with certifications in International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), Financial Analysis and Decision Making, Environmental, Social Management Systems (ESMS) with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Credit Risk Management from the Banking Institute of Liberia.

With over a decade of professional experience, Youssouf has established himself as a Certified Chartered International Banker and financial analyst, gaining practical experience both in Liberia and abroad. His professional career culminated in his post-graduate degree in Business Administration from Cuttington University, Liberia.

Currently, Youssouf serves as the Head of Commercial and Credit Banking at Afriland Bank Liberia, where he oversees the development, implementation, and monitoring of various credit programs, including the approval of commercial credit proposals. He is known for his enthusiasm, motivation, reliability, and work ethic, all of which have significantly contributed to the success and growth of Liberia’s corporate banking sector.

In recognition of his dedication and professionalism, Youssouf was inducted as a Fellow of the Global Academy of Finance and Management (GAFM) in 2016, based in Colorado, USA, and also became a Fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration (FICA) in Nigeria. His exceptional performance in the industry earned him the prestigious “Credit Manager of the Year” award in December 2020 from the Institute of Credit Administration.

Youssouf is not just a banker but a compassionate leader deeply committed to social impact. He is actively involved in humanitarian work, dedicating a significant portion of his income to support underprivileged communities in Liberia. As the Board Chairman of the Atlantic Vocational Training Institute (AVTI), he empowers vulnerable youth in Liberia by providing them with career skills that open doors to employment and self-sustainability. Youssouf is also the Chairman of Smart Savings Liberia, a microfinance institution focused on providing business training, loans, and mobile savings services to individuals and small businesses. Additionally, he co-founded the Ramadan Foundation, which provides humanitarian relief services globally.

His leadership extends to various other roles, including Board Member of MIPAP-Africa and the Federation of Fula Students of Liberia. Youssouf Barry’s life’s work continues to inspire change and offer hope to those in need, as he strives for a society where everyone has access to decent living and opportunities for growth.