The Muslim Community through the National Muslim Youth Assembly, has hosted its Annual Awards and Dinner Program, a landmark event recognizing the contributions of Liberians from diverse sectors.
The ceremony, held in Monrovia, honored more than 16 nominees, with prominent activist Martin K. N. Kollie receiving the prestigious Activist of the Year Award.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Imam Ali Krayee underscored the challenges facing Liberia’s Muslim community, particularly in education and social participation. He lamented that despite Muslims making up an estimated 12 percent of the country’s population, their representation in higher education remains disproportionately low.
“When the University of Liberia graduates 2,000 students, you will not even find 200 Muslim graduates,” Imam Krayee noted. “This is not encouraging. You cannot limit yourselves only to being sellers or mechanics. We must break barriers in education, politics, and other fields.”
The Chief Imam also warned against the growing division of national support along religious and ethnic lines, urging unity and inclusiveness.
The highlight of the night came when the organizers named Martin K. N. Kollie as Activist of the Year, describing him as a relentless voice against corruption, bad governance, and academic decline, while championing youth empowerment, education, justice and economic freedom.
Kollie, who is based abroad, was represented at the ceremony by journalist Myean D. Torgbean, who accepted the honor on his behalf.
Speaking after receiving the award, Torgbean thanked the award committee and reaffirmed Kollie’s commitment to the Liberian people. “This recognition is not just for Martin but for every young Liberian who believes in a better future. We encourage the organizers to continue creating such platforms that highlight the work of Liberians making a difference,” he said.
Other honorees included leaders and professionals from sectors such as education, business, and community service, reflecting the goal of celebrating excellence across society.
The Liberia National Muslim Youth Assembly says it hopes the annual program will become a platform for dialogue, recognition, and inspiration for young Muslims and the broader Liberian community.
