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By Michaella Faith Wright
What began as a passion for transforming buildings into beautiful spaces has earned 34-year-old Mariama Sanneh national recognition after she was crowned Best Female Painter of the Year by the Samaritan Painter Foundation. The award was determined not only by public votes but also through project site inspections that assessed the quality and professionalism of nominees’ work.
Sanneh, a professional painter and founder of MS Painting, received the honour after six years in the painting industry, marking a major milestone in her career.
Unlike many awards decided solely by popularity, judges from the Samaritan Painter Foundation visited project sites to evaluate the quality, professionalism, and overall impact of each nominee’s work alongside the public vote.
Based in Kotu Quarry, Sanneh has built a growing painting company that employs nine people. She said her passion for creativity and the satisfaction of seeing clients happy after every completed project inspired her to pursue painting as a full-time career.
“I have always believed that hard work, honesty, and dedication can open doors, and today I am proud to be recognized for doing what I love,” she said.
Sanneh said one of her biggest challenges was earning the trust of clients in a profession traditionally dominated by men.
“Some people doubted my ability at first, but I stayed focused and allowed the quality of my work to speak for itself. Once clients saw the results, they respected my skills and recommended me to others,” she explained.
She credited her success to attention to detail, discipline, creativity, patience, honesty, effective communication, and strict adherence to safety standards.
According to Sanneh, painting has given her financial independence, boosted her confidence, and enabled her to support her family while creating employment opportunities for others.
Looking ahead, she hopes to grow MS Painting into one of The Gambia’s leading painting companies, create more jobs for young people, and train more women to pursue careers in skilled trades.
Reflecting on her achievement, Sanneh dedicated the award to everyone who supported her journey.
“This nomination and victory are not only for me but for every woman who dares to dream big. Never allow fear or stereotypes to limit your dreams. Success comes through determination, discipline, and perseverance,” she said.
