The Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026, held from October 22 to November 8, 2026, feature 25 sports and 10 engagement activities. Behind the scenes, a team of professionals works tirelessly to ensure the event's success. One such individual is Sokhna Maïmouna Diao, a 26-year-old protocol manager at the Comité d'organisation des Jeux olympiques de la jeunesse (Cojoj). Born and raised in Dakar, Diao has a strong educational background in diplomacy and strategic negotiation.
Diao's journey to becoming a protocol manager began with her academic pursuits. She holds a master's degree in diplomacy and strategic negotiation from the Centre d'études diplomatiques et stratégiques de Dakar. Prior to joining Cojoj, she gained experience through internships at the mairie des Parcelles Assainies and the Société d'exploitation du marché international de Diamniadio. Her passion for protocol led her to apply for the Learning Academy, where she was selected for the fourth cohort.
As a protocol manager, Diao's primary responsibility is to ensure the comfort and well-being of Olympic family members, including officials from the Comité international olympique (Cio), leaders of international federations, and authorities from the Senegalese government. Her duties involve coordinating logistics, providing refreshments, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Diao works closely with her colleagues to guarantee a seamless experience for visitors across various event sites.
On November 1, 2026, Diao was stationed at the Place du Souvenir africain, where she assisted in welcoming guests. The event featured the "Let's Move" program, which offered the public an opportunity to engage in different sports through initiations, demonstrations, and animations. Diao's role was crucial in ensuring that the invited guests felt comfortable and could enjoy the activities.
Diao's experience at the Youth Olympic Games has been a valuable learning opportunity. She has acquired significant knowledge and skills, both professionally and personally. Her role has allowed her to interact with numerous individuals, develop her problem-solving abilities, and adapt to unexpected situations. Diao expressed her enthusiasm for continuing in this field and applying her skills in future events.
The Youth Olympic Games have also presented Diao with the challenge of working long hours and being highly available. During the planning phase, working hours were often extended, with some colleagues working until 21:00 or even 02:00. This level of dedication demonstrates the magnitude of the organizational effort required to host a successful event.
As the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026 come to a close, Diao's contributions to the event's success are undeniable. Her passion for protocol and her dedication to ensuring a smooth experience for Olympic family members have made her an invaluable asset to the Cojoj team. Her experience will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for her future endeavors in the field of protocol and event management.
Key points
- Sokhna Maïmouna Diao, a 26-year-old protocol manager, plays a crucial role in ensuring the comfort and well-being of Olympic family members at the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026.
