Monrovia, Liberia – With assistance from ActionAid Liberia (AAL), the National Young Women Political Council of Liberia (NYWPLC) successfully wrapped up a one-day National Young Women Leaders Conference on Friday, March 28, 2025.
The conference’s objectives were to support the development of young women’s leadership skills, strengthen their political and civic engagement, encourage creative solutions to the country’s social and economic problems, strengthen networks between young women, mentors, and organizations for long-lasting change, and advocate for greater representation of women in decision-making.
Hundreds of young women leaders from all around the nation came together for the event, which had as the theme “Women Rising: Shaping Liberia’s Future through Leadership and Innovation.”
NYWPCL President Laura Targbeh Korvah reiterated the organization’s commitment to accomplishing its goals. Ms. Targbeh stressed that NYWPCL has not changed in its commitment to empowering young women by giving them the networks, information, and abilities needed to assume leadership positions.
Over the years, many young women have stepped up to participate in politics, business, activism, and civic leadership, according to the NYWPCL President.
She said the conference was a driving force behind that effort, offering a forum for education, mentoring, and cooperation while encouraging attendees to take advantage of the opportunity to interact, create connections, and pledge to contribute to Liberia’s change.
“This conference is a movement, not just an occasion. We are all responsible for influencing the future, not just a chosen few.“
“Let’s take use of this opportunity to motivate one another, share ideas, and establish alliances that will have a long-lasting effect. For the benefit of Liberia, let’s rise, take the initiative, and innovate. Thank you, and I hope your conference is fruitful and life-changing. Laura Targbeh,” NYWPCL president said.
The Women Non-Governmental Organizations Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) Chairperson, Attorney Facia B. Harris, gave the keynote address and emphasized the vital role that women have played and still play in forming Liberia’s history and in advancing global development.
Attorney Harris considered the important roles that women have played in a number of fields, including as business, politics, education, and community development. She underlined that women are still essential to all facets of society in spite of the obstacles they still encounter.
At this pivotal juncture in history, we hold the power to shape both our nation’s and the world’s destiny. Instead of only dreaming, we must act now to bring about genuine, observable change for present and future generations, Harris said.
She exhorted the participants to acknowledge their influence and accountability in forming Liberia’s political and developmental environment. “Making significant decisions that propel communities toward advancement and innovation is what defines leadership, not titles,” she stated.
Harris emphasized that empowerment starts with having faith in one’s voice, talent, and ability to effect change, drawing inspiration from women worldwide. Since self-confidence is the foundation of good leadership, she urged young women to invest in it.
Harris went on to say that education is essential to this process. She made the argument that nations with greater percentages of female education typically had stronger economies and more developed societies. “Investing in girls’ education is crucial for sustainable progress and development it is not just a right,” she said.
Harris acknowledged the obstacles that women still encounter, such as gender inequity and a lack of support in leadership positions, she also emphasized that even the most ingrained obstacles can be overcome with perseverance and drive.
She urged the attendees, “We are here not only to rise for ourselves but to lift each other up, creating a network of women leaders who support and empower one another.”
“We need more women in decision-making rolesm because when women lead, communities thrive,” she said, emphasizing the significance of promoting policies that promote women and girls in leadership and education.
Representative Prescilla A. Cooper, a politician from Montserrado District #5, made a special statement emphasizing the vital role that women play in the advancement of the nation. She stated that women leaders are frequently honest and dignified.
Rep. Cooper urged young women leaders to continue being brave, bold, and self-assured as they strive for national leadership roles. She encouraged them to take on obstacles head-on, especially when vying for leadership positions with their male peers.
However, she encouraged young women attending the National Young Women Leaders Conference 2025 to face the challenges they face, stressing that despite these difficulties, their route to leadership should be paved with self-assurance, tenacity, and resolve.
