Nathan N. Gbelee, a prominent national youth leader and advocate for educational development, has been honored with the 2024 Influential Youth Icon Award for his extraordinary contributions to education and youth empowerment in Liberia. The award ceremony, organized by The African Passion International Inc., took place in Monrovia and was attended by over 150 participants, including distinguished guests and other honorees.
As the Founder and Executive Director of the Sustainable Educational Initiative of Liberia (SEIL Inc.), Gbelee has demonstrated unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable education as a tool for national development. His organization, a non-political, non-governmental, and nonprofit entity, focuses on advancing Liberia’s human resource capacity, enhancing educational access, and complementing government efforts to reform the national education system. SEIL aligns its work with Goal 4 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which promotes quality education, and upholds the principles outlined in Sections 9.1 and 9.2 of Liberia’s Children’s Law of 2011, ensuring every child’s right to education is protected.
Gbelee’s achievements extend beyond national borders. He has garnered numerous awards for his initiatives aimed at promoting quality education, youth development, and capacity building. His accolades include: Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Excellence Award (2018, Ghana), Young African Hero Award from Today’s Heroes Magazine (2021, Nigeria), Young Liberian Excellence Awards for Academic Excellence, Community Service, and Volunteerism (2018 and 2019), International Young African Leaders Award (YALA) in the Education Star category (2023, Morocco)
The YALA, held in Rabat, Morocco, is among the most prestigious awards recognizing young African leaders contributing to the SDGs and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Gbelee emerged as a finalist from a competitive pool of 30 nominees, evaluated on the impact of their projects, alignment with global development goals, and leadership qualities.
Through SEIL Inc., Gbelee has initiated transformative programs aimed at improving Liberia’s educational framework. His efforts support capacity building for youth, bridging educational gaps, and advocating for policies that ensure inclusive and equitable access to quality education.
The award organizers commended Gbelee’s visionary leadership, which has placed Liberia prominently on the map of African nations striving for sustainable educational reforms. They encouraged him to continue his impactful work, inspiring a generation of young Liberians to actively contribute to national and continental development.
Gbelee’s recognition underscores his journey as a changemaker dedicated to advancing the future of Liberia through education and youth empowerment. His accolades and initiatives reflect his passion for creating opportunities that enhance the lives of young people across the nation.
In the words of Yayeh Initiative, an education-focused organization, “We congratulate this young Liberian trailblazer for representing Liberia on the global stage. His commitment to promoting quality education and youth development is an inspiration to all.”
Nathan N. Gbelee’s achievements serve as a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His story is a beacon of hope for Liberia’s youth and a reminder of the transformative power of education.
