The National Children and Youth Culture & Talent Festival was officially launched on Friday, January 10, 2025, marking a historic milestone for Liberia’s children and youth with disabilities.
The event, aimed at using arts, culture, and talent development to drive positive change, began with a heartfelt speech by Nathan N. Gbelee, Project Officer of the National Children and Youth Advisory Board. Gbelee outlined the festival’s mission to create a platform for children and youth aged 15-35 with disabilities, allowing them to showcase their talents and engage with pressing social issues. He emphasized the critical need to address the rights of disabled children, which are often overlooked. According to UNICEF, nearly 240 million children with disabilities worldwide experience the denial of fundamental rights—something this festival aspires to combat.
Abubakar Fofana, Administrative Assistant to the Assistant Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Liberia officially marked the launch. Fofana delivered an inspiring address on behalf of the government, highlighting its commitment to promoting inclusive participation and supporting the development of youth with disabilities.
Also present at the launch was Chester Dennis, Business Development Manager at TipMe Liberia, who co-launched the festival. Dennis reiterated the critical role of the private sector in creating opportunities for young Liberians with disabilities. He emphasized the potential for the festival to grow into an annual event that not only celebrates talent but also fosters national unity and raises awareness on important social issues.
The festival, which will run throughout February, will feature inclusive participation categories, such as singing for blind children and creative arts for other youth with disabilities. It will also include educational components, capacity-building workshops, and media outreach to promote cultural preservation, raise social awareness, and enhance the overall development of its participants.
This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant step in Liberia’s efforts to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, have opportunities for personal growth and social contribution. The anticipated outcomes include greater cultural appreciation, increased participant self-confidence, and strengthened community cohesion.
As Liberia continues prioritizing social inclusion, the National Children and Youth Culture & Talent Festival is poised to play a transformative role in shaping the future of children and youth with disabilities, empowering them to take their rightful place in society.
