Empowering the Future: NYWPLC and ActionAid Liberia Shape Women Leaders
The National Young Women Political Council of Liberia (NYWPLC) concluded a successful one-day conference for young female leaders, supported by ActionAid Liberia (AAL). The event was designed to empower these emerging leaders and enhance their involvement in politics and community affairs.
The conference, themed “Women Ascending: Crafting Liberia’s Tomorrow via Leadership and Creativity,” gathered numerous young females from all parts of Liberia with the aim of nurturing leadership skills and encouraging groundbreaking answers to the nation’s critical societal and financial issues.
The conference aimed to offer a stage where young women could acquire essential knowledge, connections, and abilities needed for assuming leadership positions, along with pushing for greater inclusion in decision-making arenas. Additionally, it provided a chance for young female leaders, mentors, and groups to forge robust networks, fostering enduring progress in Liberia.
During her introductory comments, Laura Targbeh Korvah, who serves as the President of the NYWPLC, reiterated her group’s dedication to fostering female youth into influential roles across various societal domains. “Over time, we've seen an increasing number of young women emerging as leaders in areas such as politics, entrepreneurship, activism, and community service,” she noted. She further emphasized that this gathering acts as a driving force behind these developments—offering opportunities for education, guidance from experienced mentors, and cooperative efforts among participants.”
Targbeh motivated the participants to take advantage of the opportunity to build connections, get involved, and pledge their efforts towards transforming Liberia. She emphasized that this conference transcends being just an occasion—it embodies a movement. The duty of crafting our future doesn’t belong solely to certain individuals but rests with every single person present here. This gathering should serve as a platform where we can motivate each other, share insights, and form alliances that will generate enduring effects. Targbeh encouraged everyone to step up, guide, and pioneer innovative solutions for the advancement of Liberia.
The opening speech was presented by Attorney Facia B. Harris, the chairperson of WONGOSOL—the Liberian Women Non-Governmental Organizations Secretariat—which highlighted the crucial part women have had—and still have—in molding Liberia’s past and present as well as their continuous impact on worldwide progress.
Harris emphasized the substantial influence of women across multiple domains such as politics, commerce, education, and community building. He pointed out that even though women continue to encounter enduring obstacles, their contributions remain vital to all facets of societal life.
"We find ourselves at a pivotal junction—a point in history where the destiny of our world and nation rests in our grasp. This is not merely a period for aspirations, but one for taking concrete steps to bring about meaningful transformation for both us and coming generations," Harris stated.
She motivated the participants to acknowledge their influence and duty in molding Liberia’s political and development trajectory. “True leadership isn’t about having a title; it’s about taking decisive actions that propel societies towards advancement and new ideas,” Harris highlighted. Additionally, she underscored that fostering female empowerment begins with trusting one's own voice, capabilities, and power to spark transformation. “Building personal confidence forms the bedrock of strong leadership,” Harris stated.
She emphasized that education is crucial for enhancing women's power. "Nations where more women receive an education generally thrive both economically and socially. Funding girls' education is not only a matter of rights—it is vital for sustained advancement and growth," Harris stated.
Despite recognizing the gender disparities and inadequate backing faced by women in leadership positions, Harris urged them to be resilient and determined. She stated, “Our presence isn’t just about personal advancement; it’s also about helping one another ascend, forming a community of female leaders who uplift and encourage each other.” She encouraged attendees to champion policies that bolster educational opportunities and leadership prospects for women and girls. “The involvement of more women in making decisions leads to thriving communities,” she emphasized.
During an exclusive statement, Representative Priscilla A. Cooper, who represents Montserrado District Number 5, highlighted the vital part played by women in nation-building efforts. She emphasized that female leaders frequently demonstrate honesty and respect—traits crucial for propelling the country forward. Cooper urged aspiring young women leaders to stay resilient, self-assured, and bold as they strive towards taking up leadership roles.
She particularly encouraged the young women at the gathering to challenge the obstacles they encounter, notably when vying for leadership positions with their male peers. Congresswoman Cooper counseled them: “Even though hurdles might be present, let self-assurance, persistence, and resolve lead your path.” Additionally, she highlighted the significance of young women consistently dismantling these barriers, demonstrating fortitude amidst hardship, and proactively contributing to the development of Liberia’s future.
The conclusion of the National Young Women Leaders Conference emphasized the importance for emerging female leaders to remain dedicated to catalyzing transformation within their localities and country. This gathering marked an essential progression in ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s capabilities, nurturing leadership skills, and promoting greater involvement in policy formulation.
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