At the New Georgia Estate during his annual visit to the country, Liberian scientist, Dr. Dougbeh Christopher Nyan spoke to a group of predominately neglected and disadvantaged youths (locally known as “Zogos”) about the COVID-19 vaccination and engaging in entrepreneurship in order to better their lives.
The event was organized by the Angie Brooks International Center (ABIC) which is conducting a rehabilitation program for youths affected by the country’s long-year of civil war, economic displacement, and those involved with the use of drugs and other controlled substances.
The Angie Brooks International Center is an institution focused on promoting peace and security and enhancing women’s leadership and their participation in national or international political life. ABIC is currently headed by Counselor Yvette Chesson-Wureh as Executive Director and Former Liberian Foreign Minister, Madam Olubanke King-Akerele as Board Chairperson.
As part of his community engagement, Dr. Nyan, who is also a social activist, narrated his life challenges and successes from childhood to his present professional status as medical doctor and scientist as a way of relating to the situation of the youths and giving them hope.
He told the youths that, “it is difficult, but success comes through determination and persistence,” adding that, “you must be discipline, consistent, and patient so as to succeed in the small businesses initiatives you are involved with.”
“You did not choose to be this way [disadvantaged]; it is societal conditions that got you to be this way,” said Dr. Nyan, a former Liberian student and youth leader with the Liberian National Students Union (LINSU) and the Student Unification Party (SUP).
The Liberian scientist stressed that, “you must be consistent, dedicated, and steadfast in the rehabilitation program as these are resources gathered by ABIC to help in your recovery, and entrepreneurship to make you self-reliant and independent.”
“Although I was expelled from school two times for advocating democracy, and sent to jail and exiled for political reasons by the past Liberian military government, I never gave up hope, but remained courageous; therefore, you should do the same,” he added.
He also advised the youth to continue to protect themselves against COVID-19 by wearing mask and washing hands, and encouraged them to take the COVID-19 vaccination when they have the chance and are eligible. He dispelled rumors about the vaccines and reaffirmed that the vaccines are safe, effective and free.
The scientist thanked the Angie Brooks International Center (ABIC) for the invitation and applauded the youths for their attention.
During his return to Liberia recently, Dr. Nyan conducted numerous COVID-19 Vaccination Awareness through seminars, community engagement as well as radio and nationwide television broadcast that has seen many citizens now responding to taking the vaccines.
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