Monrovia, Liberia – Liberia’s former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has issued a compelling call to Liberia’s young people to embrace discipline and purpose-driven leadership as they prepare to inherit the responsibilities of nation-building.
Speaking Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the 1st African Students Leadership Forum, Sirleaf told hundreds of students that they represent the “generation that will carry the nation forward” over the next five decades.
In her inspirational address, the former President outlined ten critical pillars she believes will shape Liberia’s next generation of leaders, commitment to home, education, knowledge of country, respect, discipline, wise friendships, community service, moral courage, positive engagement, and strong faith.
Also, she urged the students to always remember their roots, stressing that Liberia becomes stronger “when every young person commits to contribute something positive, an idea, a skill, a service, a dream.”
Calling education “a passport to opportunity” and “the light that will guide you through any darkness,” the ex-President encouraged them to study hard, ask questions, and push themselves beyond their limits.
Sirleaf, also underscored the importance of knowing Liberia’s history, its wars, peace-building efforts, democratic progress, ethnic diversity, and cultural richness, arguing that “when you know your history, you walk with pride.”
The Liberian ex-President decline in respect and discipline among the country’s youth and warned that success is built through small, consistent acts; saying “No task is beneath you. Your habits will tell who you are.”
She cautioned students to choose their friends wisely and surround themselves with those who uplift and challenge them.
Madam Sirleaf further emphasized community involvement, urging young Liberians to volunteer, keep their surroundings clean, and set positive examples.
On national morality, the two term Liberian President encouraged students to “stand up for what is right” by rejecting misinformation, violence, and especially drugs, which she described as “killing the communities and destroying the country.”
She urged participation in positive social activities, from drama to reading groups, to build character and discipline, while reminding them to balance technology with meaningful engagement.
However, Sirleaf called on students to hold fast to their faith, whether Christian or Muslim, because Liberia’s diverse religious community shares the same values of love, peace, kindness, and service.
“Let your faith guide your decisions. Let humility be your strength. And let your conduct show that you are ready to serve humanity, your nation, your parents, and your God,” Sirleaf narrated.
She blessed the students and expressed hope that they would become the kinds of leaders’ others aspire to emulate.
Reported by: Prince Saah
