I’m Ngone Niang, a Senegalese-Muslim American and mother of two boys, and a proud resident of District 39. I’ve lived in New Brighton and now call St. Anthony home, where I’ve been for the past three years. As the youngest of eight siblings, I was raised with a deep sense of responsibility, family, and community—and that’s how I lead today.

I am a first-generation American, shaped by the journey of my parents, who came to this country in search of opportunity. My father arrived in 1987, and my mother followed in 1991. Together, they built a life through hard work—selling African art and sourcing produce from local farmers to sell within the community.

I grew up alongside them, sometimes selling watermelon in the summer heat. That experience taught me the value of my own work and the importance of communities supporting local businesses and producers. It also shaped my belief in strengthening local economies and expanding access to community-based food systems. From a young age, I learned service, humility, and courage through their example.

Being a saleswoman as a child helped me develop confidence, public speaking skills, and the ability to connect with people with respect and politeness. I carried that discipline into my adolescence as a track athlete—where I learned endurance, focus, and resilience (and anyone who knows the 400-meter race knows it’s not for the faint of heart).

I also grew up riding horses, competing in both Western and English riding. That experience deepened my connection to the land and animals, and instilled in me the importance of caring for our environment. Stewardship of the earth is deeply important to me, and I strive to live in a way that is as eco-conscious and respectful of our natural world.

These experiences shaped me into a people-centered leader, grounded in service and integrity—values that are no longer just lessons, but pillars in how I show up for my community today. I represent a new generation of leadership—closer to the challenges people are facing, more connected to the community, and ready to step forward. At 29, I’m not waiting my turn. I believe it’s our time to lead.

My work is focused on investing in our youth. I invest in their development by equipping young people with the tools, confidence, and opportunities to lead, engage, and shape their own futures. Through that work, I’ve seen what happens when communities aren’t connected to decision-making—they get left out. That’s why I focus on bridging policy and community—ensuring real experiences shape real decisions. With a background in Political Science and experience in disability and mental health advocacy, I’m committed to building systems that are responsive, inclusive, and grounded in real life—while keeping my mission clear: strong communities and leadership that listens. I communicate in English and Wolof, with working proficiency in French, and I stay engaged in work that brings people together and develops the next generation of leaders.

I’m running for State Senate in District 39 to bring forward a new generation leadership—rooted in community, driven by purpose, and ready to deliver.

This is our time—and I’m ready to lead.