Maiyai Taal HocheimY

Executive Director

Mrs. Hocheimy is the founder of the GREAT Institute and a passionate advocate for research and education as essential tools in shaping future critical thinkers in The Gambia. Her work focuses on climate change adaptation and mitigation in developing countries, integrating ecological, social, and economic dimensions through both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Mrs. Hocheimy is a National Geographic Explorer and holds a BSc from Hampton University (USA) and an MSc from the University of Southampton (UK).

Momodou ‘Jasseh’ Faal

Program Officer

Mr. Jasseh joined the team in 2021 and holds a BSc in Physics and with a minor in Mathematics from the University of The Gambia. Mr. Jasseh’s aim is to help in meeting the challenges facing the world today. He looks forward to pursuing a Master’s Degree in Aquatic Physics.

Kaddijatou Jallow

Community Science Leader

Ms. Jallow is a university student majoring in Biology with a minor in Computer Science. She joined the team in 2024 as a Community Science Leader and is passionate about the intersection of Biology and Technology and plans to pursue a master's degree in Bioinformatics.

Maimuna Fatty

Community Science Leader

Ms. Fatty is an undergraduate student at the University of The Gambia, majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Environmental Science. She joined the GREAT team in 2024 as a Community Science Leader. Ms. Fatty envisions leading eco-friendly Agriculture efforts and plans to pursue dual master's degrees in Environmental Chemistry and Climate Change.

Mustapha Sallah

Community Science Leader

Mr. Sallah joined the team in 2024 and is an undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor's degree in Geography at the University of The Gambia. He is dedicated to fostering scientific literacy and community engagement and plans to pursue a master's degree in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analytics of climate data.

Ebrima Bojang

Community Science Leader

Mr. Bojang is an undergraduate student at the University of The Gambia, majoring in Geography with a minor in Environmental Science. He joined the GREAT team in 2024 as a Community Science Leader. Known for his diligent work ethic and discipline, Mr. Bojang aims to pursue dual master's degrees in Environmental Geography and Geographic Information Science.

Scientific Advisors

Kam Tang, PhD

Kam Tang is a Professor of Biology and Department Chair of Life Sciences, College of Science at Texas A & M University - Corpus Christi in the United States. Since the inception of the GREAT Institute, Kam has served as a Scientific Advisor, contributing his extensive expertise to guide the institute's research directions and strategic initiatives. His advisory role underscores his dedication to advancing scientific understanding and fostering innovation in environmental research and education.

Daniel McGinnis, PhD

Daniel Frank McGinnis is a Professor in environmental physics and Director of the Department of F.-A. Forel for Environmental and Water Sciences at the University of Geneva, Switzerland. Since 2022, Daniel has collaborated closely with the GREAT Institute, serving as the scientific partner for three major expeditions focused on the study of mangrove ecosystems. His leadership has been instrumental in aiding GREAT’s mission in advancing research in The Gambia on the role of mangroves in carbon cycling, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation.

Summer Intern

2024 - Hanatullah Ikumapayi