When NC State Poole College of Management student Kadiatou Diawara arrived on campus, she quickly discovered the unique challenges that come along with being a first-generation college student. Navigating unfamiliar academic expectations and balancing financial responsibilities were hurdles that many of her peers didn’t face. But they also sparked her desire to create something meaningful.
Now, as the founder and president of the First-Generation Business Collective, Diawara is using her own experience to make sure other first-generation students don’t have to navigate their journeys alone.
“My freshmen year of college, I was faced with certain social and financial challenges that were unique to first-gen students,” Diawara said. “When I was presented with the opportunity to found an organization that could address and help support other students like myself, I knew it was my sign to help my first-generation community.”
As president, Diawara leads the organization’s Executive Board, coordinates events and professional development opportunities and connects members with alumni and business professionals throughout the Raleigh-Durham area. Her leadership also includes collaborating with advisors to select board members and promoting valuable campus resources like TRIO and First in the Pack.
While the organization is still young, Diawara has already built a strong foundation. The group’s mission centers on providing mentorship, professional development and a sense of belonging. Three elements that she says are essential for first-generation students to thrive.
“I wanted to build a space that offered mentorship, professional development and belonging for students who are navigating common barriers,” she said. “Our organization is only growing, and I have a diverse Executive Board of motivated, eager business students who share the same vision.”
“I was nervous to start a new organization in Poole, but it was the best decision I could have made.”
Leading First-Generation Business Collective has helped Diawara strengthen her strategic communication and collaboration skills, while deepening her understanding of how to turn student needs into meaningful programs. She credits Laryssa Banks, assistant director of student affairs and advocacy, one of her mentors and key supporters, with helping her launch and sustain the organization.
“Laryssa has been the biggest support system, motivator and point of contact for any ideas, questions, or challenges I’ve had,” Diawara shared. “She believed that I could build the First-Gen Business Collective to be another successful affinity organization at Poole.”
Diawara’s leadership has already had an impact beyond the organization itself. During internship interviews, she’s been able to share tangible examples of her leadership, like organizing First-Gen Business Collective’s first major event, “Backstage Pass” at the Poole College Career Fair. Experiences like these helped Diawara secure a Summer 2026 internship and grow her professional network.
“Leading this organization has made me more confident to connect with other students, staff, and alumni,” she said. “It’s given me a new confidence that I didn’t have before.
Diawara’s advice to other students considering leadership or professional development opportunities? Take the leap.
“My biggest piece of advice would be to go for the opportunity, even if you’re afraid,” Diawara said. “I was nervous to start a new organization in Poole, but it was the best decision I could have made. It’s allowed me to build incredible connections, gain support from amazing students and staff, and discover strengths I didn’t know I had.”
