By Joseph Tumbey
The National Young Women Political Council of Liberia (NYWPLC), with support from ActionAid Liberia (AAL), successfully concluded a day-long National Young Women Leaders Conference on Friday, March 28, 2025, which aimed at fostering leadership development and strengthen young women’s political and civic participation, Encouraging, innovative solutions for Liberia’s social and economic challenges, Strengthening networks among young women, mentors, and organizations for sustainable change and Advocating for increased women’s representation in decision-making spaces.
The event, held under the theme “Women Rising: Shaping Liberia’s Future through Leadership and Innovation,” brought together hundreds of young women leaders nationwide.
Laura Targbeh Korvah, President of NYWPCL, reaffirmed her organization’s stance on achieving its objectives.
Ms. Targbeh emphasized that NYWPCL remained steadfast in its mission to empower young women by equipping them with the knowledge, networks, and skills necessary to take on leadership roles.
The NYWPCL President noted that they have seen a growing number of young women step up to engage in politics, business, advocacy, and civic leadership over the years.
According to her, the conference catalyzed that movement—providing a platform for learning, mentorship, and collaboration and urging the participants to seize the moment to engage, connect, and commit to playing a role in Liberia’s transformation.
This conference is more than an event; it is a movement. The responsibility to shape the future does not rest on a select few—it lies in each of us.
Let us use this space to inspire one another, exchange ideas, and forge partnerships that will create lasting impact. Let us rise, lead, and innovate for the betterment of Liberia.
Thank you, and I wish you a productive and transformative conference NYWPCL President, Laura Targbeh, stated.
Serving as keynote speaker, Attorney Facia B. Harris, Chairperson of the Women Non-Governmental Organizations Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL), highlighted the crucial role women have played—and continue to play—in shaping Liberia’s history and their contribution to global development.
Attorney Harris reflected on women’s significant contributions in various sectors, including politics, business, education, and community development. She emphasized that despite the barriers women continue to face, they remain integral to every facet of society.
“We stand at a defining crossroads—a moment in history where the future of our world and our country lies in our hands. This is not just a time for dreaming, but for action—creating real, tangible change for ourselves and future generations,” Harris remarked.
She urged the attendees to recognize their power and responsibility in shaping Liberia’s political and developmental landscape. “Leadership is not defined by titles but by making impactful decisions that drive communities toward progress and innovation,” she said.
Drawing inspiration from women across the globe, Harris stressed that empowerment begins with belief in one’s voice, potential, and capacity to inspire change. She encouraged young women to invest in their self-confidence, noting that it is the cornerstone of effective leadership.
Education, Harris added, plays a pivotal role in this process. She pointed out that countries with higher educational rates for women tend to perform better economically and socially. “Investing in girl’s education is not just a right—it is essential for sustainable progress and development,” she stated.
While acknowledging the challenges that women continue to face, including gender inequality and a lack of support in leadership roles, Harris emphasized that determination and resilience can help overcome even the most deeply entrenched barriers.
“We are here not only to rise for ourselves but to lift each other, creating a network of women leaders who support and empower one another,” she encouraged the participants.
She stressed the importance of advocating for policies that support women and girls in education and leadership, stating, “We need more women in decision-making roles—because when women lead, communities thrive.”
In a special remark, the Montserrado District # 5 lawmaker, Representative Prescilla A. Cooper, highlighted the critical role of women in national development, saying that women leaders are often individuals of integrity and dignity, essential qualities for advancing the country’s progress.
Rep. Cooper encouraged young women leaders to remain strong, confident, and courageous in their pursuit of leadership positions within the country. She urged them to face challenges head-on, particularly when competing for leadership roles alongside their male counterparts.
She, however, urged young women at the National Young Women Leaders Conference 2025 to confront the obstacles in their path, emphasizing that while barriers may exist, self-confidence, perseverance, and determination should guide them throughout their journey toward leadership.
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