Forty young leaders have graduated from a 24-week Democracy Impact Fellowship Program, a transformative initiative organized by Naymote Partners for Democratic Development in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy near Monrovia.
The program seeks to empower young Liberians with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to foster democracy and drive sustainable change in their communities.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Catherine Rodriguez emphasized the importance of youth in Liberia’s future.
She expressed the United States’ pride in supporting the program and encouraged the fellows to showcase Liberia’s potential as a resilient and prosperous nation.
“You are the generation that will take Liberia to the next level,” Rodriguez said, adding, “This is your chance to show the world what Liberia truly has to offer.”
Liberia has faced significant challenges with its democracy in the past, including instances where young people were exploited by politicians to disrupt peace and stability. Initiatives like the Democracy Impact Fellowship are critical in addressing these issues by equipping young leaders with the tools to make informed decisions, advocate for positive change, and resist manipulation.
Naymote’s Executive Director Eddie Jarwolo highlighted the importance of continued efforts to strengthen youth leadership in Liberia and expressed gratitude for the partnership with the U.S. Embassy.
He said such programs could play a pivotal role in ensuring that young people are educated about democratic values and empowered to participate constructively in nation-building.
Program Manager Alphia Faith Kemokai praised the fellows as “40 change-makers” ready to lead Liberia into a brighter future. She noted that the number 40 symbolizes preparation and transformation, aligning with the fellows’ journey throughout the program.
The initiative has already begun to yield positive results, with graduates making an impact in politics, education, health, and social advocacy. These efforts contribute to a ripple effect of progress across Liberia, challenging the narrative of its troubled past and reinforcing its potential for a stable, democratic future.
The event was graced by U.S. Embassy officials, civil society members, and other dignitaries, who commended the fellows for their dedication and the program’s role in promoting peace and democracy in Liberia.
Joseph Daniels reports for OK FM Liberia as Executive Mansion Correspondent. With a vested interest in making the voices of people from different walks of life heard, he has covered investigative stories relating to education, health, the environment, corruption, and violence against women and girls, among others. He graduated from the United Methodist University with a Bachelor of Art Degree in Mass Communications in 2020. Joseph is also a fellow at New Narratives, a non-profit organization helping media deliver independent, truthful information to its people so they can make informed decisions.
