The Australian African Foundation for Retention and Opportunity (AAFRO) exists primarily to build a bridge between young people of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds – especially those of African descent and their families – and the wider Australian community.

  • AAFRO was founded in 2010 by Mamadou Diamanka, who is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director of the company.

    The idea of AAFRO first emerged in 2009 when, after migrating to Australia, Mamadou noticed that a vast amount of young people, particularly those of African descent and other Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds, required support to integrate into wider Australian society harmoniously. To support these young people and families, he commenced a youth work practice, providing them with a variety of programs that were tailored to meet their well-being needs. This program then led to forming AAFRO in 2011. Mamadou dedicates his time to volunteering to help others and at the same time building the charity mission and vision, building the Organisation.

    AAFRO is a registered charity and a deductible gift recipient (DGR).