On Friday, December 13, 2024, exiled Liberian activist, through the Martin K. N. Kollie Foundation (MKNKF) hosted an inspiring award ceremony at the Corina Hotel in Monrovia. At the ceremony, 17 deserving Liberian students received L$1 million in scholarships.
Educational leaders, media representatives, and the recipients themselves attended the event, all coming together in a shared mission to promote educational opportunity and social change in Liberia.
Despite residing in exile, Martin K. N. Kollie, the foundation’s founder and CEO, delivered a special statement through a proxy. The speech resonated deeply with the beneficiaries, as Kollie spoke from personal experience about the challenges of growing up in some of Monrovia’s most impoverished neighborhoods.
He mentioned how communities like Logan Town, Jallah Town, Bong Mines Bridge, and Red Light were not only battlegrounds of poverty but also centers of resilience and strength for those determined to rise above their circumstances.
“Our mission as a foundation is to create a just and fair society of shared prosperity and equal opportunity,” Kollie stated. “We want to help Liberians, especially the vulnerable youth, rise above the limitations of their environment, just as we have fought to do. It is possible to overcome the struggles of ‘The Slum’ and build a life of dignity and accomplishment.”
Kollie emphasized the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty. He acknowledged the difficulties of growing up in these communities, where many young people face the harsh realities of limited opportunities, but he stressed the importance of hope and resilience. “We want to inspire hope in those trapped in their circumstances. All is not lost; there is solace even in solitude. Together, we can stimulate positive social change,” he said.
The scholarship program is a testament to the MKNKF’s commitment to youth empowerment, focusing on the belief that every Liberian, regardless of background, should have a fair shot at success. The scholarships were awarded to students from various academic disciplines, with each recipient demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence and a vision for a brighter future. The list of scholarship winners includes students pursuing studies in environmental science, public health, education, law enforcement, data science, and public administration.
Among the recipients were Georgia V. Landers, an Environmental Science and Chemistry student at AME University, and Charlesetta Kolleh, a Public Health major at the same institution. Other notable recipients include Venus A. Taylor, studying Management and Accounting at AME Zion University, and Orlando T. Farley, pursuing Secondary Education at United Methodist University. The diversity of disciplines among the awardees reflects the foundation’s dedication to addressing Liberia’s needs in various sectors, from healthcare to education and beyond.
The event also recognized outstanding high school students, such as Victor Robert from Christ Foundation Junior High School and Muahn Johnson, the valedictorian at St. Mary Catholic High School. Their inclusion demonstrates the foundation’s support for young talent at all educational levels, not just university students.
Kollie’s speech was not just about the past struggles of his community but also about building a collective vision for Liberia’s future. “We cannot do everything for everyone, but we can do something for someone,” he urged the recipients to embrace their roles as change agents. “Through education and empowerment, we can build a future of shared prosperity and equality. Together, we can leave a long-lasting legacy for future generations.”
In closing, Kollie expressed his pride in the scholarship recipients and wished them success in their educational journeys. “May this scholarship serve as a stepping stone to your excellence and success. God bless you all,” he concluded.
The Martin K.N. Kollie Foundation’s scholarship program is more than just a financial gift; it is a commitment to Liberia’s future, focused on creating opportunities for those who might otherwise be overlooked. With this initiative, the foundation continues empowering Liberia’s youth, ensuring the next generation has the tools and opportunities to thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth.
