Yekepa, Nimba County – In a field that has long been dominated by men, a female name Rufina has reshaped the perceptions. Ruthfena M. Togbah, a 2018 graduate from the Paso SD High School in Picano never imagined that a simple flyer could change her life through an announcement about the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy, and it opened the door to a future she hadn’t seen coming.
She expressed that the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy is playing a vital role in Liberia’s development by building skills and creating real opportunities, especially for young women. Ruthfena is more than just a proud Academy alumnus today. As one of its newest female trainers, she is a fearless role model for women in Liberia who want to succeed in technical disciplines.
“I applied, and my competence was determined. After passing the first two tests, I went back for eight more. They instructed me to report to Yekepa on June 7, but I came a day early. I also passed them and received an interview invitation. That’s my level of commitment,” she said.
She left the Academy with more than just a certificate after finishing its rigorous three-year curriculum. She had the abilities, the self-assurance, and a renewed sense of direction. Driven by curiosity and a desire to pursue something hands-on, Ruthfena story didn’t end there. One day after graduation, her former instructor reached out with an unexpected offer: to return as a trainer.
“At first, I wasn’t interested in being a trainer, but then I thought about the impact it could have. I realized I could be an example for other females to follow. That’s what changed my mind,” she said.
Rufina has been formally working for ArcelorMittal as a Boiler Making Trainer since April 1, 2025. She has only been in the position for a few months, but she is already leaving her mark. Being in her 20s and relatively new to teaching hasn’t been a barrier. Her students respect her and respond positively to her guidance.
“They are always willing to work with me. They’ve never talked back or challenged me. They show up ready to learn, and that’s what motivates me every day.”
She believes the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy is playing a vital role in Liberia’s development by building skills and creating real opportunities, especially for young women.
“ArcelorMittal Liberia is the only technical school I know that’s free, advanced, and fair. There’s no bribery, and they give women first preference. That’s something I respect deeply. They are doing well for us as females. I want to say thank you and encourage other women to apply.”
“In Liberia today, getting a degree doesn’t guarantee you a job. You can have all the papers and still be unemployed, or even asked to pay or do things you’re not comfortable with just to get hired. But with technical skills, people respect you. They see what you can do, and they give you a chance to prove yourself.”
“I want every young woman out there to take advantage of this opportunity. If I did it, they can too,” Ruthfena encouraged young women.
The story of Rutjfena is a testament to what’s possible when young people are empowered with the right skills and support, all thanks to ArcelorMittal Liberia. Ruthfena Togbah isn’t just building a career she’s building a legacy.
