The Zorzor YMCA Local Youth Council has climaxed the celebration of the International Youth Day with a parade through the principal streets of Zorzor City, Lofa County.
Following the parade, participants convened at the Zorzor Youth Center for a series of enlightening discussions and presentations. Mr. Peter Zarwu, President of the YMCA Local Youth Council, opened the program expressing his exhilaration for the event.
“This occasion is intended to provide education for our youth, encouraging them to become change makers in their communities,” he stated.
Peter Zarwu emphasized the importance of recognizing youth’s contribution positively to society and encouraged attendees to engage actively with the YMCA Local Youth Council to enhance their productivity. The program featured distinguished speakers from women’s organizations, law enforcement, and the public sector, all aligning their messages with the theme “Youth Empowerment for Global Change.”
Advocating for Gender Equality, Mrs. Annie Woyea, a prominent women’s advocate, urged young men and boys to actively prevent violence against women, aiming for a society where safety and positive contributions are universal. She emphasized the necessity of incorporating women into all facets of community activities.
Representing the office of Representative Augustine Chieawolo, Mr. Julius Saah highlighted the importance of utilizing networking platforms like Facebook and Instagram constructively. Mr. Saah encouraged youths to leverage these tools for self-marketing and positive change rather than misusing them.
On behalf of law enforcement, Madam Annie Freeman called upon Liberian youth to abide by the law and refrain from vigilantism. She advocated for a collaborative relationship between youths and law enforcement officers to foster a deeper understanding of legal frameworks.
Mr. Eric A.S. Wesseh, speaking for YMCA Liberia, lauded the youth council for orchestrating such a pivotal event. “Our doors are always open to support programs that aim to mold the minds of our youth,” he affirmed, stressing the importance of peace over violence in resolving conflicts.
Adding a perspective from the media, Mr. Benjamin S. Lablah, Chaplain of the YMCA Local Youth Council and an emerging journalist at Alternative Youth Radio, inspired youths to pursue their passions earnestly. He advised them to seek mentorship in their chosen fields, step out of their comfort zones, and believe in the possibility of effecting change.
Meanwhile, Participants expressed profound excitement about the event, advocating for the continuation of such gatherings to drive transformative change within the society.
The celebration, marking its inaugural occurrence in Zorzor, Lofa County, set a precedent for future engagements aimed at youth empowerment and community development.
