Our Team
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Meet Professional Team Members
Basamba Drammeh
MD/CEO FICASMART Africa Manager
Basamba Drammeh
Ömer Yalçın
MD/CEO FICASMART Manager
Ömer Yalçın
Feyyaz Sertkayalı
MD/CEO FICASMART Türkiye Manager
Feyyaz Sertkayalı
Alex Watts QGM
Chief Operations Officer (COO) FICA SMART Africa
Alex Watts QGM
Banta Njie
MD and Head of Operations
Banta Njie
DIANKÉ DIABY
Senegal Trade manager
DIANKÉ DIABY
Christopher Mendy
Germany Trade manager
Christopher Mendy
Mehmet Yücel Mersin
Saudi Arabia Trade manager
Mehmet Yücel Mersin
He is also the Director of Communications for the West Africa Social Media Association (WASMA), where he promotes African voices by supporting influencers and organizing awards. In addition, he is actively involved with the Abubakary Jawara Foundation, which provides essential support to vulnerable communities, especially during Ramadan.
With a strong background spanning public administration and private enterprise, Basamba bridges sectors to promote social justice and economic development. His work continues to make a lasting impact in The Gambia and across Africa.
Basamba Drammeh
MD/CEO FICASMART
Basamba Drammeh is a passionate human rights advocate and social entrepreneur with a diverse and impactful career across human rights, social work, international trade, and development. He is the founder of Smart Dwellings and has served as the President of the Association of Social Workers in The Gambia since 2019. He also works as Business Development Manager at C&M Corporate Management, contributing to business growth since 2017.
Basamba holds a Master’s degree in Human Rights and Humanitarian Action from Sciences Po, Paris, with specializations in Diplomacy and African Studies. He dedicated his degree to Gambian President Adama Barrow, whose lecture at Sciences Po inspired his academic journey—making him the first and only Gambian graduate of the institution
Email Address
b.drammeh@fsafricatrade.com
Phone No.
+220 200 36 38
+358 469 37 60 78
Country
56 Kairaba Avenue Gambia
Job Skills
I am an enthusiastic Human Rights activist with profound experience in Social Work and I am privileged to count myself amongst the first batch of trained social workers in The Gambia. I am confident and opened minded and leverage my interpersonal skills to build bridges between individuals and communities. To compliment my civic efforts, I also
acquired in-depth knowledge in the field of business and social entrepreneurship.
Educational Experiences
My experiences span across Human Rights, Child rights, Social Work, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Banking, Journalism, Politics, International Relations, Diplomacy and Preventive Diplomacy.
Cabin Leader KFUM BREVIK Sweden
SENIOR CABIN LEADER
Singa Paris
ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING
HIGH SCHOOL CERTIFICATE
SOS Hermann Gmeiner Senior Secondary KMC, Gambia
Paris , Gambia
PARTICIPANT FOR FRANCE IN SPAIN ON INTEGRATION AND RACISM
University of The Gambia
10/06/2007 – 14/06/2011 DIPLOMA /BACHELOR'S
Sciencespo Paris
27/09/2018 – 10/09/2020 MASTERS
Ömer Yalçın
MD/CEO FICASMART
Having started photography in 2008, I have undertaken various commercial ventures. In addition to my business career, I have also advanced my educational career. I was the vice president of the local Solidarity Association and served as an honorary member in social responsibility projects.
I worked as a team and business coordinator for the shooting of Golden Orange Film Festival or organized industry promotional films, and I carried out project-based video shootings or photo shoots. I continued my work in different countries on a wide variety of projects. I acted as an intermediary in the export of products of many companies from many sectors. I currently continue my work in our companies in Izmir.
Currently, as Parskan Group, we continue our work in the media sector, construction sector and Domestic & Foreign Trade sectors.
Email Address
omer@fsafricatrade.com
Phone No.
+90 532 590 68 35
Country
Bayraklı Tower İzmir
Job Skills
In addition to my Professional Photography career, which started in 2008, I served as team leader in many projects. In addition to my own personal commercial ventures, I carried out consultancy and import-export brokerage activities for many companies.
Educational Experiences
My experiences I am very experienced and knowledgeable in subjects such as industrial production, medical materials and devices, Food processing and hygiene rules, Food Safety, Business management, branding and media management, International trade management and legislation.
Ege university
2018-2020 Master's degree in International Relations and Political Science
Ege university
2016-2018
food technician
associate degree
Anadolu University
Business Management Licence
Anadolu University
Photography
associate degree
Ege university
Biomedical Devices
technician
Karşıyaka Industrial vocational high school
electrical technician
Feyyaz Sertkayalı
MD/CEO FICASMART
I am Feyyaz Sertkayalı, a professional with extensive knowledge and experience in international logistics and supply chain management. As a graduate of the Maritime Faculty at Dokuz Eylul University, I have achieved success in various sectors throughout my career in sales and logistics. With my expertise in procurement, I have successfully sourced the necessary materials and services under the best conditions.
My ability to develop strategies to enhance customer satisfaction is one of the key pillars of my success. My strong problem-solving skills and creative thinking equip me to tackle challenges in the logistics industry effectively. Currently, I serve as the director of Fi-Ca Trade and Umbrella Logistics, where I contribute to the growth of these companies and lead innovative projects with my teams.
My experience in managing procurement processes allows me to optimize every stage of the supply chain. I focus on negotiating effective deals to secure the necessary materials at the best prices, optimizing costs, and ensuring compliance with budgets. Additionally, my ability to build strong relationships with suppliers aims to create a sustainable supply chain.
I place great importance on teamwork, fostering motivation within the teams I lead and demonstrating effective leadership to achieve common goals. By adopting a mindset open to continuous learning and development, I strive to develop strategies that adapt to changing market conditions.
Email Address
fsertkayali@fsafricatrade.com
Phone No.
+90 530 136 02 35
Country
İstanbul Türkiye
Job Skills
I am Feyyaz Sertkayalı, a professional with extensive experience in international logistics and supply chain management. My career has equipped me with the skills to tackle industry challenges and develop strategic solutions, particularly in managing complex logistics operations across different countries.
I specialize in optimizing logistics processes and ensuring cost-effectiveness while fostering collaboration within teams. My procurement expertise enables me to source materials effectively, balancing costs and budget compliance.
Committed to continuous learning, I prioritize creating strategies that adapt to changing market conditions and focus on building sustainable supply chains through strong supplier and customer relationships.
Educational Experiences
I am Feyyaz Sertkayalı, and I completed my education at the Maritime Faculty of Dokuz Eylul University. This program helped me develop my knowledge and skills in international maritime and logistics. The faculty provided not only theoretical knowledge but also practical experiences, greatly contributing to my preparation for the industry. Through various disciplines I learned, I enhanced my ability to manage complex logistics processes and produce effective solutions. Additionally, I had the opportunity to establish international connections and access up-to-date industry information, which laid a solid foundation for my career.
Dokuz Eylul University
Maritime Faculty
Namik Kemal High School
Super high school
Work Experiences
I began my career in 2013 as a Sales Specialist at NORA International Forwarding Co. Ltd., where I gained significant experience in international logistics. I then worked as a Sales & Marketing Expert at NMT Logistics and a Sales Executive at GEODIS Turkey, strengthening customer relationships. In 2019, I started my own business as a Sales Manager at Pure Logistics & Consultancy, developing strategies for supply chain management.
Currently, I work in the Sales & Logistics position at Parskan Group / Fi-Ca Trade & Logistics while serving as the director of Fi-Ca Trade and Umbrella Logistics. In these roles, I develop innovative projects to ensure sustainable growth for the companies and effectively lead by leveraging my skills in building strong relationships.
Alex Watts QGM
Chief Operations Officer (COO) FICA SMART Africa
Alex is a philanthropist and entrepreneur who has developed a lifetime commitment to restoring prosperity, dignity and safety to nations and communities damaged by conflict and corruption. Having served as an officer in the British Army for 18 years retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel – during which time he served on operations in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan – he became involved in Defence, Security and Intelligence procurement managing $multi billion digitisation and equipment programmes (Defence Information Management, Soldier and Platform Digitisation for Combat, Armoured vehicle and weapon/surveillance systems). He was awarded the Queen’s Gallantry Medal (QGM) following his service in the Bosnia conflict.
Following military service, he worked in the defence, security and intelligence industry with the UK and US Ministries/Departments of Defence as a programme manager, executive consultant and subject matter expert in information management, intelligence and human factors all within the context of conflict and military combat. He was the chief designer for both the US and UK Future digitised soldier and mounted systems, author of the Defence Requirements Capture Framework and CapTER (combat soldier system simulation model) now used by the UK MOD for all procurement programmes.
He also re-designed TRITON – a global intelligence model that predicts and analyses terrorist and conflict actions globally and currently used by US, UK European intelligence agencies. He designed and managed REVIVE – a $400m explosive hazard clearance and reconstruction programme in Iraq and has been heavily involved in humanitarian efforts (in partnership with the UN and humaitarian foundations) in the Middle East and in Bosnia for the past 10 years. During this time he
Country
England
Job Skills
Alex is the author and designer of the Safe Cities Programme for The Gambia a unique, national digitised security programme that will propel The Gambia forward 10 years. He is also involved in agricultural, entertainment and programmes and trading through The Gambia and West Africa
Educational Experiences
Royal Military College of Science Cranfield
Military Technology MCIG , Combat Arms Fighting Systems · (2000 - 2001)
King's School Chester
· (1981 - 1988)
Work Experiences
- Senior Executive Consultant
- Political & Commercial Executive Consultant
Strategic Account Director - Defence Consultancy
Banta Njie
MD and Head of Operations
Banta has over 2 decades of experience working in the Financial Services Sector both in Europe and Africa. Until recently, Banta was serving as a Senior Compliance Manager with one of the world’s leading banks, the NatWest Group, where he ensured corporate clients adhered to the bank’s strict Anti-money laundering, EDD and KYC policies. He has a proven track record of successfully leading and implementing projects both within finance and the insurance sector. As a Compliance Manager specializing in Anti-Money Laundering, Financial Crime, and Customer Due Diligence, they have acquired in-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
Banta is also an experienced Independent Financial Adviser specialising in financial planning, investment management and risk management. Holding a higher Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA/Level 4) with The London Institute of Banking and Finance, Banta provides tailored, client-centric financial advice to individuals, families, and businesses. He is known for his clear communication, comprehensive approach, and dedication to helping clients achieve their financial goals.
Country
Gambia
Job Skills
In his previous roles, Banta was a Senior Quality Assurance professional at The Royal Bank of Scotland were they developed their analytical and attention-to-detail skills, ensuring that products and services met the highest standards of quality and compliance. He also served as a data analyst at the Office for National Statistics (ONS), where he honed his skills in statistical analysis and data visualization. Their ability to gather, analyze, and interpret complex data sets has been instrumental in supporting evidence-based decision-making.
Educational Experiences
Bsc in Business Management and Administration
London School of Management: 2002-2005
Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA/Level 4)
The London Institute of Banking and Finance: February 2018
Advanced Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering
nternational Compliance Association (ICA): July 2019
Work Experiences
- an experienced Independent Financial Adviser specialising in financial planning
- Senior Quality Assurance professional at The Royal Bank of Scotland
- Office for National Statistics (ONS), statistical analysis and data visualization.
DIANKÉ DIABY
Senagal Trade Manager
Dianké Diaby is a versatile and dynamic executive assistant with over 10 years of professional experience in administrative management, commercial support, and client relations. She has built a strong track record across both public institutions and private sector companies in France, contributing effectively to organizational efficiency and executive operations.
Throughout her career, she has held key roles at renowned organizations such as Armor Lux, Mairie de Rezé, Société Téréva, and Système U Ouest. Her responsibilities have included organizing meetings and travel, managing budgets, preparing commercial offers, tracking customer orders, and maintaining administrative documentation. She has also demonstrated strong customer service and communication skills, handling both in-person and remote client interactions with professionalism and care.
Dianké holds an Associate Degree in International Trade and a Professional Certificate in Commercial Negotiation and Project Management. She is highly proficient in office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and is known for her organizational skills, reliability, and results-oriented mindset.
Her multicultural background and broad experience allow her to work efficiently in diverse environments and build solid bridges between teams. Dianké continues to provide strategic and operational support to executive leadership, making her a valuable asset to any organization.
Country
Senegal
Job Skills
Dianké Diaby is highly skilled in administrative management, with a strong ability to organize and coordinate daily office operations efficiently. She excels in client relations, offering professional and reliable support to maintain positive customer experiences. With her background in commercial support, she is proficient in preparing quotations and assisting sales processes. Dianké also has advanced command of Microsoft Office tools such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, which she uses effectively for documentation and reporting. Her collaborative approach and clear communication make her a valuable team coordinator in multicultural and dynamic work environments.
Educational Experiences
Certification en Négociation Commerciale et en Gestion de Projet Centre Européen de Formation – 2019
Certificate in Commercial Negotiation and Project Management
• BTS Commerce International – Lycée Jean Perrin, Nantes – 2010
Associate Degree in International Trade
•Baccalauréat Littéraire Mention Bien – Lycée Les Bourdonnières, Nantes – 2008
Literary Baccalaureate with Honors
Work Experiences
Armor Lux, Nantes – 2020 à 2022 Assistant Manager
Mairie de Rezé – 2016 à 2020 / Administrative Agent
Société Téréva, Nantes – 2015 à 2016 / Assistant Manager
Système U Ouest, Rezé – 2014 à 2015 /
/ Administrative Assistant
Christopher Mendy
Germany Trade Manager
Christopher Mendy is a versatile professional, cultural ambassador, and entrepreneur originally from The Gambia. He began his career at an early age, taking on significant roles in both social responsibility initiatives and the entertainment industry. As the founder and CEO of Gambia Promotions since 2010, he has been actively involved in music, culture, and youth empowerment projects both locally and internationally.
After relocating to Germany, Christopher broadened his professional experience by working in the healthcare, logistics, and service industries. He enhanced his knowledge in the healthcare sector through a nursing apprenticeship at Marienstift Schorndorf. He also gained valuable experience in team dynamics and customer service while working with Strahlcenter Venetis and Restaurant Zum Schwanen.
With a keen interest in technology, Christopher developed strong IT skills, becoming proficient in Microsoft Office, software, and basic hardware. His multilingual ability—speaking German, English, Manjago, Mandinka, and Wollof—makes him an effective communicator in multicultural environments and a sought-after interpreter and public speaker.
Christopher is deeply committed to social impact. He has volunteered with the Gambia Red Cross Society, directed and hosted cultural festivals, and led youth programs. He has taken part in numerous international events, both on stage as a performer and behind the scenes as an organizer.
With a passion for promoting intercultural dialogue and making a difference in people’s lives, Christopher Mendy brings inspiration, dedication, and a forward-thinking mindset to everything he does—whether in professional settings or community-driven projects.
Phone No.
Germany
Job Skills
Christopher Mendy is a highly versatile individual with a strong combination of technical and interpersonal skills. His expertise in IT is supported by proficiency in Microsoft Office, software knowledge, and basic hardware capabilities. Fluent in five languages—German, English, Manjago, Mandinka, and Wollof—he is a confident communicator and reliable interpreter in multicultural and international settings. With stage experience, public speaking abilities, and leadership in cultural events, he presents a well-rounded professional profile that blends technical competence with strong human connection.
Educational Experiences
German Language Course, AWO
• 11/2016–03/2017: ,Villingen-Schwenningen
Sheikh Anta Diop University
2014 Dakar
West African Shattered College Mass Media
• 2013–2014 Gambia
Ndow's Comprehensive Senior Secondary School
• 2019–2011 Gambia
Work Experiences
- 2022–2023: Strahlcenter Venetis – Production Assistant
- 2021–2022: Restaurant Zum Schwanen – Service Staff
- 2019–2020: Breuninger Logistics – Employee
- 2017–2019: Nursing Apprenticeship, Marienstift Schorndorf
- Since 2010: Gambia Promotions – Founder & CEO
- 02/2017–03/2017: Internship, Ev. Altenhilfe Lorenzhaus St. Georgen
- 11/2016–03/2017: SOS-Team EA Villingen – Youth group leader, culture project involvement
Mehmet Yücel Mersin
SAudi Arabia Trade Manager
Yücel is a multidisciplinary professional with a career spanning from cultural production to international projects, blending creative content development with strategic commercial relations. With proven experience in challenging markets such as Saudi Arabia, he has successfully coordinated international productions, managed cross-cultural partnerships, and maintained effective communication with local stakeholders. His background in production and publishing enhances his ability to craft marketing messages that resonate with target audiences. Combining creativity with a strategic mindset, he brings valuable solutions to marketing and business development efforts—especially in export operations where cultural sensitivity and adaptability are essential.
Phone No.
Saudi Arabia
Job Skills
Yücel is a versatile professional with a unique ability to operate at the intersection of creative industries and international trade. He has demonstrated strong representation capabilities in international markets, especially in the Arab region where his deep understanding of local dynamics and culture has allowed him to build effective communication channels and long-term partnerships. His expertise includes strategic business development, cross-cultural negotiation, and content-driven marketing, all backed by his storytelling and presentation skills rooted in the media and performing arts. With proven project management and coordination abilities, Yücel is adept at adapting to foreign trade processes and delivering solutions that align with both commercial goals and cultural expectations.
Educational Experiences
Dokuz Eylül University
Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Performing Arts (Graduated)
Akdeniz University
Faculty of Engineering (partially completed)
Sakarya University
1998–1999 (left after the 1999 earthquake)
High School, Middle and Primary Education
Aydın, Turkey
Work Experiences
Coordination Director (Reji Koordinatörü) – Red Production – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (2024 – Present)
– Worked on the MBC adaptation of the Turkish TV series “Anne / Mother”.
– Managed coordination between Turkish and Saudi teams during production.
Assistant Chief Director (Reji Şef Asistanı) – TRT1 – Balkan Ninnisi TV Series (2022)
– Worked closely with the chief director for production scheduling and coordination.
Screenwriter & Assistant Director – Various Production Companies (Kanal D, Gold Film, NTC Media, O3 Medya, Ay Yapım, Med Yapım) (2014 – 2024)
– Worked on several series and film projects as a writer and assistant director.
Founder & Artistic Director – Tiyatro-L (2012 – Present)
– Founded his own theater company and directed several original productions.
