03-08 2020 19:36
wrote:
I would like to reflect on Alioune and the lessons he has left for us all. I got to know him through my close link with the African brothers of UN-Habitat. We would often visit his home. My sister in law would help Mama Badianne cook her delicious food. As a consultant and then staff of UN-Habitat, I would see Alioune carry out his varied duties in a professional setting. Here are my reflections:
- Carry yourself with pride, confidence and a good dash of humility. Alioune was always both a physical and intellectual presence. He always commanded the room. Apart from the fact he was tall, he was always stylishly dressed, often in his traditional African outfits and even wearing fashionable glasses which we would often discuss (the blue pair in particular). But his clothes only looked good because he carried himself with pride, grace and a good dash of humility and seldom with arrogance. As a result, he presented as very genuine person. His capacity to smile and greet everyone, always making you feel valued and listened to, only added to his charisma and character.
- Know your subject, read widely and deliver a coherent, informed, action orientated message with passion. Alioune knew about sustainable urbanization and could capture any audience with his message and passion. It was clear he read widely, considered new ideas and worked at understanding the context in which he was working. He was an inspiring speaker, seldom using notes but speaking from his extensive knowledge and experience of urban developing, alongside a good dash of passion. He rallied many an audience and saved a number of meetings because of this dynamic capacity.
- Take time to lift those around you, no matter who they are or where they are from. Alioune was famous for supporting his staff and mentoring others, particularly other African men his junior. He became a father figure and big brother to many. He took time to know his staff, care about their issues of concern, interact with them in an open manner and provide a steady guiding hand. His capacity to reach out and be present for many, despite his busy schedule, was outstanding and will be sorely missed.
Wishing you a dynamic onward journey Alioune and may we all carry some of your lessons and ideas forward. May your family accept this moment with grace and I offer them my sincere condolences.
03-08 2020 19:36
wrote:
I would like to reflect on Alioune and the lessons he has left for us all. I got to know him through my close link with the African brothers of UN-Habitat. We would often visit his home. My sister in law would help Mama Badianne cook her delicious food. As a consultant and then staff of UN-Habitat, I would see Alioune carry out his varied duties in a professional setting. Here are my reflections:
- Carry yourself with pride, confidence and a good dash of humility. Alioune was always both a physical and intellectual presence. He always commanded the room. Apart from the fact he was tall, he was always stylishly dressed, often in his traditional African outfits and even wearing fashionable glasses which we would often discuss (the blue pair in particular). But his clothes only looked good because he carried himself with pride, grace and a good dash of humility and seldom with arrogance. As a result, he presented as very genuine person. His capacity to smile and greet everyone, always making you feel valued and listened to, only added to his charisma and character.
- Know your subject, read widely and deliver a coherent, informed, action orientated message with passion. Alioune knew about sustainable urbanization and could capture any audience with his message and passion. It was clear he read widely, considered new ideas and worked at understanding the context in which he was working. He was an inspiring speaker, seldom using notes but speaking from his extensive knowledge and experience of urban developing, alongside a good dash of passion. He rallied many an audience and saved a number of meetings because of this dynamic capacity.
- Take time to lift those around you, no matter who they are or where they are from. Alioune was famous for supporting his staff and mentoring others, particularly other African men his junior. He became a father figure and big brother to many. He took time to know his staff, care about their issues of concern, interact with them in an open manner and provide a steady guiding hand. His capacity to reach out and be present for many, despite his busy schedule, was outstanding and will be sorely missed.
Wishing you a dynamic onward journey Alioune and may we all carry some of your lessons and ideas forward. May your family accept this moment with grace and I offer them my sincere condolences.