Our team
Meet Our Team
Sokhna Ndoye
For over 30 years, Sokhna Ndoye built a career in information technology, solving complex problems and guiding people through change. But nothing could prepare her for the moment her daughter suffered a traumatic brain injury. Overnight, Sokhna’s world shifted from leading teams and technology to navigating hospitals, rehabilitation, and the unknowns of recovery.
As a mother, she drew on every ounce of determination, resourcefulness, and faith she had. Her professional success provided the financial stability to access the care her daughter needed—but Sokhna quickly realized what so many families face: without resources, even the strongest love and resolve can’t overcome the steep barriers to recovery.
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That realization became her calling. GuidedFunds Trust was born out of Sokhna’s lived experience as both a mother and a problem-solver. She understood firsthand that recovery is not just about medical treatment—it’s about whether families can afford rehabilitation, home modifications, or even basic support along the way.
Now, Sokhna is using the same strategic mindset that made her a leader in technology to build a movement of compassion, access, and equity. With empathy at the core, she leads GuidedFunds Trust to ensure that no family has to choose between hope and hardship.
Her vision is clear: a world where every family—regardless of income or circumstance—can access the care and support needed to rebuild after brain injury.
“There is a solution to every problem. Together, we can turn hardship into hope and possibility.” – Sokhna Ndoye
Fatimah Freeman
Fatimah Freeman is a nonprofit and communications leader with extensive experience in philanthropy, development, and executive management. As Managing Director of a family office, she oversees governance, operations, and philanthropic initiatives, including a donor-advised fund. Her career includes securing major corporate partnerships and leading community programs that expand opportunity. She brings expertise in fundraising strategy, organizational leadership, and cross-sector collaboration to advance the mission of Guided Funds Trust.
Kristen Barley
Kristen Barley is the Executive Director of the Energy Education Foundation in Houston, TX, where she drives strategic direction for programs that champion energy literacy and workforce development. With over two decades of executive leadership and program development experience, her background spans diverse sectors, including nearly a decade at Spindletop Impact Partners, where she supported the energy industry.
Notably, she also served for several years as a Development Director and Executive Director for Susan G. Komen across the Southeast region. A proven trailblazer, Kristen is dedicated to strategic growth and fostering community engagement. She is passionate about ensuring everyone has equitable access to the care and education they need.
Read Our Founder’s Story to Understand Our Why
It happened without warning — a car accident that changed everything. My daughter’s life was at risk, and ours was turned upside down.
We were completely unprepared — emotionally, mentally, and financially. I watched her fight for her life while doctors warned us that if we chose to keep her on life support, she might never regain a meaningful quality of life.
The road ahead was overwhelming. We were told she would need extensive care and significant financial resources just to have a chance at recovery.
For months, we tried to manage on our own. The idea of fundraising felt uncomfortable — we didn’t yet grasp the full impact of her injuries or the level of care she would require.
But thanks to the generosity of others, we received enough support to cover critical therapy at home for two months — just enough time for her official care plan to be processed.
With that support, we were able to purchase essential medical equipment, hire two full-time caregivers during the day and one at night, and provide acupuncture that brought her relief. We even hired private physical and occupational therapists.
Miraculously, she began to recover faster than anyone had predicted. I was able to work from home, and having her mother nearby gave her strength and comfort. It felt like a miracle — a second chance at life. But it was also the result of having the financial means to support her recovery.
I know many families aren’t as fortunate. I know there are people and organizations who want to help but don’t always know how.
GuidedFunds Trust was born from this experience — to pay it forward, and to help other families facing similar challenges find hope, healing, and the support they need to keep going.
“In the darkest moments, it is the light of love, resilience, and the kindness of others that guides us back to hope. GuidedFunds Trust exists to be that light for those who need it most.”