It is with deep sadness and regret that the International Diabetes Federation learnt of the passing of Fousseny Diakité – a member of the IDF Young Leaders in Diabetes (YLD) programme from Mali.
Fousseny was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2006. Soon after his diagnosis, he started collaborating with his national diabetes association – the Association Malienne de Lutte contre le Diabete – and subsequently became a very active diabetes advocate in his home country. He also studied to become a nurse and better support his local community.
Fousseny joined the YLD programme in 2019 and participated in the Leadership Training Summit in Busan (Republic of Korea). During the five-day training, his easy-going nature and eagerness to learn left a deep impression on his fellow young leaders and the IDF team. In December 2022, he became a YLD Mentor and was looking forward to sharing his experience with other young people starting their diabetes advocacy journey.
Fousseny was a source of inspiration, a role model and a true leader in diabetes. His motto was “Together we shall rise above all our struggles”. He will remain in our hearts and minds, while we continue to unite our efforts to ensure that diabetes care is available and accessible to everyone who needs it.
