Over 300 Young Leaders of Africa (YOLEAF) Network came together on the 61st celebration of Unification Day at the Unity Conference Center to host the National Youth Symposium under the theme and hopes of “Redefining Our Identity as Youths.”
Dr. Kimmie Weeks, founder of Youth Action International Inc. (YAI) delivered the keynote address, urging the youth of Liberia to take the bold step in whatever they do.
“Remember, grades are not measured by intelligence and age doesn’t define maturity. Leaders become great not because of their power, but because of the ability to empower others,” he assured them.
After the program, he Tweeted and Facebooked his excitement to have been honored. “It was a well organized and timely event and I look forward to the next year” he posted on FB.
In addition, Clarence H. Cole, an existing board member of YOLEAF-Network whose objective is to capacitate youth, added that in order for Africa to become the Africa they all envision; it had to start with them.
He also acknowledged delegates from the various counties as far as Maryland and said,
“ Your commitment to the call for a new and better Liberia is recognized,”
Additionally, Eddie Jarwolo of Naymote Liberia shared his life story of hardship to success as an inspiration and also cautioned his audience. “The change you seek will require creativity, innovativeness and believing in yourselves,”.
Also present was Alex Devine of Youth for Change Inc. who believes education without implementation is nothing.
“The youths must now put to practice what they have acquired from various trainings and start to make an impact beginning with their communities.”
Meanwhile, political aspirant Cornelia Kruah Togbah, former Representative Candidate of Montserrado’s 13th district, shared her challenges and encounters as the youngest candidate in the race. She claimed there were a lot of distractions but she remained focused and came in third.
“You all must get prepared if you want to get to the table of national decision-making,” she said.
