Isiah Doumbia recently completed his third year at the IDEAL School of Manhattan, but his journey is anything but ordinary. In a remarkable feat during his earlier high school years, Doumbia clinched victory in an essay competition centered around the legendary Muhammad Ali. His triumph led to an unforgettable experience as he jetted off in a private plane to Louisville, KY, where he immersed himself in the rich legacy of the Muhammad Ali Museum.
This year, Doumbia’s adventures continued as he joined a YMCA teen group from Harlem, NY, on a tour of four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Reflecting on the experience, he shared, “I gained profound insights into Black culture and discovered a renewed sense of pride in my heritage. It reshaped my perspective on education, encouraging me to embrace new horizons.”
Doumbia sees his mom as the greatest influence on him in his life. “My mom motivates me and supports me in all that I do.” His mom has Caribbean heritage. Her grandfather on her dad’s side is from Barbados, and she also had family from St. Croix while Isiah’s dad is from West Guinea, Africa.
He lives in the South Bronx, which is one of the most multi- cultural boroughs in NYC, where there are activities all the time.
“My extra curricular activities have been in White Plains, NY and usually not in my own neighborhood. As a person of color, I find that I have to go outside of my neighborhood to stay grounded,” he added.
Doumbia has been part of the White Plains Youth Bureau Drum Corps (WPYBDC) for about a year and a half, which he started doing because of his love of music.
“It is another way to express my natural talent, get exercise, and participate in community activities. I look forward to the parades that we attend and the rehearsals that allow me time to build friendships outside of school. The community comes out to support the events and we always have a good time,” he stated.
With WPDC, Doumbia has enjoyed meeting new friends, and being part of an organization where he is exposed to culture, performing at parades and at Comic Con.
“My hard work and dedication make me proud that I am learning to express my love of music that may lead to getting a scholarship to help pay for college,” he continued.
He is also a part of a program called Stuttering Association for the Young (SAY), which he has been attending since he was eight years old, initially for speech and socialization.
“I have been a part of their performing arts where I have performed at the Alvin Ailey theater and Joe’s Pub. I have also had the pleasure of being a Lane Captain at their yearly fundraiser in the city,” he said.
Something that makes his heart happy is when he has good food. His favorite foods are lasagne and dibi, an African dish.
His school year as a junior, involved a lot more school work and thinking about his future. In terms of furthering his education, Doumbia said, “I have taken up ASL, sign language, and I actually enjoy it and I am considering going to college to develop it into a possible career.”
