Young Liberian journalist and media executive Emmanuel Kangar has challenged young people to prepare themselves for the future, stressing that opportunities are best embraced by those who are equipped with knowledge, discipline and the right values.
Kangar served as guest speaker at the graduation ceremony of Voices Liberia’s “Empower to Lead” Vocational Program, where he delivered an address on the theme: “Preparing Young Minds for Leadership and the Future.”
Addressing participants, facilitators, parents and invited guests, Kangar reminded the young learners that they have an important role to play in Liberia’s future.
“The future does not belong to those who wait for it; it belongs to those who prepare for it,” Kangar told the graduates.
He said the participants were not merely students attending another educational program but potential teachers, journalists, doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, lawyers, policymakers and national leaders.
“The question is not whether you will become leaders. The question is: What kind of leaders will you become?” he emphasized.
Kangar praised the participants for using their academic break to learn new skills, interact with professionals and expose themselves to different disciplines rather than simply waiting for school to resume.
He noted that while formal education provides academic knowledge, programs such as Empower to Lead help young people develop communication skills, responsible decision-making, confidence, discipline and a greater understanding of their responsibilities in society.
The young media executive also urged students never to underestimate their potential because of their backgrounds or present circumstances.
“Your current situation is not necessarily your final destination,” he said, encouraging the young people to continue learning, discovering their abilities and shaping their own futures.
The Verity News reporter further highlighted the importance of decision-making, describing life as a collection of choices that can significantly influence a person’s future. He encouraged participants to carefully consider whether their decisions are right, necessary and beneficial to their future.
Speaking on leadership, Kangar said leadership should not only be associated with presidents, lawmakers, ministers or chief executives.
“Leadership begins within you,” he stressed, adding that self-discipline, emotional control, responsibility and trustworthiness are essential qualities of a true leader.
He encouraged young girls to believe in their voices, education and leadership potential, while reminding young boys that leadership is not about domination but responsibility and service.
Kangar commended the leadership and team of Voices Liberia for investing in young minds and creating opportunities for young people to develop beyond the traditional classroom.
In his closing message, he challenged the graduates to remember five words: “Learn, Think, Choose, Lead and Serve.”
“Learn — because knowledge gives you power. Think — because not everything you hear is true. Choose — because your decisions shape your future. Lead — because leadership begins with personal responsibility. Serve — because true leadership is about helping others,” Kangar said.
He concluded by urging the young participants not to wait until they become important before making a difference.
“Start where you are, use what you have, and help someone today,” he told the graduates.
