Charlotte, North Carolina – Liberian-American philanthropist, business executive, and community advocate Saya Doe Sio has been honored with the prestigious 2026 Global Leader Award by the City of Charlotte, North Carolina, in recognition of her outstanding leadership, philanthropy, and impact on communities in both the United States and Liberia.
The award was presented on Wednesday, May 20, by Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles during the 28th Mayor’s International Community Award (MICA) ceremony held at the Booth Playhouse at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.
The MICA, hosted by the City of Charlotte Mayor’s Office in collaboration with Charlotte Economic Development and the Charlotte International Cabinet (CIC), recognizes foreign-owned firms, individuals, and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the growth and development of Charlotte’s international community.
Saya Doe Sio was recognized for her transformative humanitarian work and commitment to empowering underserved communities across two continents.
In recent years, Saya has continued to gain national and international recognition for her influence and leadership. She has been named among the “100 Women to KNOW in America,” “50 Women to KNOW in Charlotte,” and “20 Influential Women to Look Out for in 2023.”
As co-founder of the Annie T. Doe Memorial Foundation alongside her husband, Francis K. Sio, Saya has helped spearhead life-changing initiatives in Liberia focused on education, women empowerment, and healthcare delivery.
Founded in 2010, the Foundation currently provides free Christian education from kindergarten through 12th grade to more than 640 students in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County. It also delivers healthcare services and empowerment programs targeting vulnerable women and marginalized communities.
According to the Foundation, more than 35,000 lives have been impacted through its programs over the years.
A major milestone for the institution is expected later this year when the first graduating class of the Annie T. Doe Memorial Academy receives high school diplomas on October 10, 2026. Many of the graduating students are expected to become the first in their families to complete high school.
Originally from Liberia, Saya migrated to the United States in 1998 and has since built a distinguished professional career. She holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree and is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Internal Control Expert, and Project Management Professional.
She currently serves as Senior Director of Business Unit Risk and Control at TIAA, where she is recognized for her strategic leadership and ethical business practices.
Beyond her corporate accomplishments, Saya remains deeply engaged in community development and mentorship initiatives. She oversees strategic operations for the Foundation, which employs more than 40 staff members, and also supports scholarship and mentorship programs for students in Charlotte.
She is also the founder of the Global Women’s Empowerment High Tea, a signature event in Charlotte designed to create safe spaces for women to connect, inspire one another, and pursue their purpose.
A Minister of the Gospel, Saya Doe Sio is also celebrated as a devoted wife, mother, entrepreneur, and mentor. She has been married to Francis K. Sio for 27 years, and together they are raising three children — Francis II, Fransaya, and Emmanuel.
Her latest recognition further cements her growing legacy as one of Liberia’s most influential diaspora figures dedicated to leadership, service, and global impact.
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