During a candid ride at the World Economic Forum 2026 (#WEF26), UN Goodwill Ambassador Sabrina Elba reflected on what drives her.

In response to the question, Sabrina shared, “I was born first-generation African, to Somali parents in Canada. I was always passionate about the narratives around rural people and Africans in particular, because it was so different from what I was hearing in school or among colleagues, compared to what my family shared back home. Many people assume Africans are waiting for a handout. But they are hardworking people contributing to global stability and producing many of the products we know and love. Think about your morning coffee—we need to ask where these commodities are coming from. That is why I’ve always been passionate about changing narratives.”

She explained that her focus is particularly on rural areas and smallholder farmers, which is a key reason she works with EFAD. “How am I bringing that to the forum this year? I am here representing EFAD as a UN Goodwill Ambassador. I always say I don’t speak for them, but I speak with all of the rural people I’ve met.”

Sabrina shared her experiences traveling across Africa: “On the field journeys I’ve been on, I’ve had the opportunity to go to Kenya, Egypt, and Sierra Leone. I’ve met some of the most amazing, hardworking people. I always promise to carry their messages with me wherever I go.”

Through this candid conversation, Sabrina Elba highlighted the importance of amplifying African rural voices in global spaces like Davos. Her message underscores that sustainable development, fair global trade, and policy decisions must reflect the experiences and contributions of smallholder farmers and rural communities across Africa.