This is a point of clarification regarding the "The Most Influential Mandingo Persons of Our Time." Since we put the topic on our widely read website, there have been tremendous among of responses from our people everywhere. We appreciate the great interest our people have shown in this matter. While the responses have been positive so far, unfortunately, there are some people who, having seen the pictures (below) have jumped into conclusion that we have already made the selection. These pictures are only there as face value to this exercise. We encourage everyone to read and send us their choices. Don't mind if the picture of your "most influential person" is not among the pictures below. Just go ahead and send the name of your favorite person and tell us why you choose them.

This exercise is not a mere popularity contest. It is one way or the other recognizing people who have worked or are working very hard for the upliftment of our community. One way or the other, we are telling them that we value their sacrifices and we honor them because of those sacrifices. Society does not honor people because they are rich or because they have all the big degrees in the world. Society recognizes people who are using their time, resources, education, and talents in its upliftment.