Executive Summary
Tiguidanké Camara is a pioneering Guinean entrepreneur and mining executive, founder and CEO of Tigui Mining Group and Tigui Holdings, known for building African-owned ventures in the extractive sector. With over 18 years of experience in mineral exploration, she has developed gold, diamond, and bauxite projects across West Africa. Her career includes a transition from international modeling in the United States to leadership in the mining industry. She is widely recognized for promoting women's empowerment, sustainable mining practices, and African participation in natural resources development. She is also an international speaker and advocate for inclusive economic growth across Africa region
Career Timeline
1996
Start of formal higher education in Morocco
2000s
Re-located to New York City, working as a professional fashion model
2008
Transitioned permanently into the extractive industry by purchasing a 28% stakeholder share in an active West African mining company
2009
Formally launched her first independent enterprise, the Camara Diamond & Gold Trading Network (CDGTN), securing Guinean gold and diamond exploration licenses
2012
Established Tigui Mining Group (TMG) as a broader mineral exploration holding company, extending operations to Côte d'Ivoire by 2015
2018
Formed the overarching conglomerate Tigui Holdings to expand her corporate portfolio beyond mining into real estate, agriculture, and commerce.
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Leadership Highlights
Advocacy Pioneer: Co-founded "Women in Mining Guinea" in 2013 to network, mentor, and build capacity for over 100 local women working within or supplying the extractive sector.
International Representation: Active member of International Women in Mining (IWiM) and an esteemed global panel speaker at major platforms, including the Africa Mining Summit and the New York Forum for Africa
Diverse Pan-African Roles: Member of the UNDP African Influencers for Development Supergroup and designated as a global ambassador for the Women's Entrepreneurship Day Organization (WEDO).
Influence Score
Business Management
Women Empowerment
Mineral exploration and exploitation
Awards
2016: Honored with the Center for Economic & Leadership Development (CELD) Women Hall of Fame Award
2017: Named by Jeune Afrique as one of Africa's 50 Most Influential Businesswomen.
2019: Ranked among the Top 100 Most Influential Entrepreneurs of the year by Financial Africa magazine
2020: Designated as the African Women Leader of the Year.
2021: Recognized by Avance Media on the official roster of the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Africa.