28
The President’s Young Professionals Program: Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia

The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Five Years of Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia A

The President’s Young Professionals Program: Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia

Page 2: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia1

WHAT IS THE PYPP?The President’s Young Professionals Program (PYPP) of Liberia is a prestigious and competitive two-year program that recruits and places recent Liberian university graduates in important government roles and provides them with training and mentorship as they support the government’s top priorities. The PYPP was launched by H.E. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in 2009 and has become one of Africa’s most competitive programs for leadership in public service.

“The PYPP has proven to be an innovative program to build leadership, respond

to capacity gaps, and employ promising Liberian graduates. It remains an

essential component of our strategy to strengthen public sector capacity.”

-H.E. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Page 3: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 2

WHO ARE THE PYPS?

Each year, the PYPP recruits a class of Liberia’s best and brightest university graduates. After being selected through a rigorous, transparent, and merit-based process, these young people are placed into government ministries, agencies, and corporations as President’s Young Professionals (PYPs). As PYPs, these young people bring their talents to bear on critical challenges within Liberia’s government through two-year placements in government positions, and afterwards when nearly all of them continue to serve the government.

In its first 5 years, the PYPP has recruited, selected, trained, and placed 77 PYPs in government agencies, ministries, and corporations.

“Capacity is found right here in Liberia. The PYPP sees young

people not as a problem to solve, but as solutions to the

many problems facing Liberia.”

-PYPP Executive Director and Class I President’s Young Professional Hh K. Zaizay

WHO ARE THE PYPS?

▪ All PYPs are high-achieving recent college graduates with a demonstrated interest in service to their communities, strong communication skills, professional drive, and the ability to be a strong team player.

▪ In total, 44% of PYPs are women and 56% are men.

▪ The 77 PYPs originate from 13 of Liberia’s 15 counties.

Page 4: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia3

PYPS’ GENDER BREAKDOWN

PYPS’ ACADEMIC BACKGROUNDS

PYPS' COUNTIES OF ORIGIN

Page 5: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 4

WHAT HAVE THE PYPS ACHIEVED?The PYPs go on to serve Liberia in diverse ways after their two-year fellowships end—in fact, 95% of the PYPs the program has recruited, selected, trained, and placed in its first five years (Classes I, II, III, IV, and V) continue to strengthen the capacity of 15 ministries and 10 agencies in the Government of Liberia today. As the PYPP’s Executive Director Hh Zaizay says, “Once a PYPP, always a PYPP.”

Through their continued service to Liberia, PYPs have risen to critical senior-level roles such as Director for Passports and Visas in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Assistant Minister for Youth Development in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, as well as those outlined in the figure below.

Additionally, 18 PYPs have received scholarships from the Government of Liberia to receive their master’s degrees or PhDs, after which they will return to the civil service. These PYPs have studied abroad in China, Israel, Uganda, Ghana, Kenya, India, and Tanzania.

Nyanda Finda Yekee- DavisStarted as: Technical Analyst to the Minister of Finance and Development Planning

Now: Director for Passport and VISA, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Boakai JaliebaStarted as: Program Coordinator–HAPE Ministry of Youth & Sports

Now: Assistant Minister, Minister of Youth and Sports

Hh ZaizayStarted as: Technical Support Staff to the Minister and later as National Program Coordinator, Gender and HIV, Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection

Now: Executive Director, President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia

Page 6: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia5

PYPs have taken on many roles in Liberia’s government, including...

“I recently won a full scholarship to study for a

Master’s degree in China. I am going to be studying

Enterprise Development and Management. I hope

I can come back after the duration of my study

and contribute to the Government’s Private Sector

Development program run by the national Investment

Commission.”

-Christollie Collins, Class IV

Page 7: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 6

WHY DOES THE PYPP MATTER FOR LIBERIA?

When the PYPP first started in 2009, Liberians doubted that a civil service program for young professionals could make a difference in Liberia. Young people were viewed as a problem that Liberia needed to solve, and government was seen as a broken institution.

Following 14 years of civil war that ended in 2003, Liberian government capacity was heavily damaged and allegedly dominated by corruption, making a career in civil service unappealing. The civil wars also severely disrupted the country’s educational system, making it near impossible to find talented young professionals to step up even if they had wanted to.

Under President Sirleaf’s administration since then, Liberia has set itself on a strong growth trajectory, becoming one of the world’s fastest growing countries and showing dramatic public health improvements under a strong government system.

The PYPP is a critical piece of the story of Liberia’s progress. It has proven that young people are not a problem, but rather a solution to the many problems facing Liberia. In addition to increasing the prestige of civil service careers, the PYPP has demonstrated that a strong civil service is key to Liberia’s future as a country of development and prosperity.

As PYPs strengthen the capacity of 15 ministries and 10 agencies in the Government of Liberia today, they are accelerating a government-level shift towards the values of strong leadership, transparency, and meritocracy – all of which will strengthen the country’s public sector capacity for decades to come.

The program has become even more critical to Liberia’s government capacity in light of the Ebola crisis that began in 2014. Several PYPs were redeployed to support Ebola response efforts and play the invaluable role of coordination among ministries – a role that other affected countries have lacked. As Liberia recovers post-Ebola, this group of young professionals has proven to be a critical network that could readily activate itself in the country’s rebuilding.

Page 8: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia7

WHAT DOES IT COST TO FUND THE PYPP?Every year, the global community spends more than $130 billion in official development assistance (ODA). Liberia received $534 million in ODA in 2013. Meanwhile, it costs a total of just $425,000 to fund a complete class of 20 PYPs through their two-year fellowships, including the management of the program. The programmatic cost of supporting one PYP through one year of his or her fellowship is $8,000.

Class IV PYP Sarah Johnson supported Ebola prevention efforts through supplying handwashing tanks in Monrovia’s densely populated West Point community.

“As a young person, I have always had the passion

to make changes in the Liberian society. I thought

this program would be the right channel. Thank

goodness, it is working!”

-Velegar Kemah, Class II

Page 9: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 8

THE PYPP AND LIBERIA OVER THE YEARS

2015PYPP celebrates 5th anniversary

(postponed due to Ebola)

2014Two PYPs selected

as YALI Fellows

2006-7Efforts begin to

rebuild civil service including Senior

Executive Service, the Tokten Program,

and the Scott Fellows Program

2005Liberians

democratically elect President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

2007Governance

featured as key pillar in Liberia’s

Poverty Reduction Strategy

1945Liberia is founding member of United

Nations

1989-1996First Liberian Civil

War

2015WHO declares

Liberia Ebola-free

1997-2003Second Liberian Civil

War

2009President Sirleaf

launches the PYPP

2010Liberia wins UN’s “MDG

Three Award” for progress promoting

gender equality, empowering women

2012Liberian

government sets vision for Liberia to become inclusive middle-income country by 2030

2014Ebola crisis hits

Liberia

2015Class VI of PYPs will

begin

2011Class I of PYPs

graduates, 10 PYPs absorbed into government

Page 10: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia9

THE PYPP MODEL

The PYPP prides itself on a transparent, merit-based, rigorous selection process that gives each young Liberian an equal opportunity to become a PYP.

PYPs are selected through a well-defined, meritocratic process. Country-wide recruitment at universities and through radio, newspapers and social media encourages all qualified candidates to apply, without regard to gender, background, or politics. PYPP runs an objective recruitment process in which names are removed from applications and candidates are taken through several selection phases, each with a different and independent selection committee comprised of professionals from the public sector, the private sector and academia.

“The PYPP is a gateway to the career development

of every young person who is aspiring to excel in

life through the provision of requisite skills, training

opportunity, and mentoring. Every young person

should take advantage of becoming a part of the PYPP.

The process is free, fair and transparent. I am a witness.”

-Precious Welekermah Tokpah-Flomo, Class V

Page 11: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 10

After they are selected, PYPs take part in the program’s core components during their two-year postings:Continuous Responsive Training: Through a two-week orientation program and ongoing monthly workshops, PYPs are trained on a range of professional skills including computer skills, financial literacy, communication skills, and meeting facilitation. The workshops also provide a space for PYPs to problem-solve with each other.

Mentorship: Each PYP is paired with a mentor (seasoned professional) who provides on-the-job support and coaching. These mentors are typically top-performing senior-level ministry staff who embrace the PYPP’s values and are eager to share professional development and career advice with PYPs.

Performance Management: PYPs are placed in critical roles across various ministries that expose them to significant responsibility and interactions with senior officials in order to build their confidence and strengthen their leadership skills. The PYPP maintains a performance management system to account for PYPs’ performance in the workplace.

Immersion Excursions: PYPs gain a better understanding of local governance and build camaraderie as a cohort through bi-annual excursions to rural communities, during which they interact with community, youth leaders, and civil servants in local and regional governments.

Page 12: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia11

THE PYPP SUPPORT NETWORK: MENTORS AND TRAINERS

The PYPP gives young Liberians the opportunity to experience a professional environment addressing real-world issues. They are exposed to problems that force them to think and find solutions. They use technology otherwise not available to them. They must analyze, integrate, compare, and evaluate a wide variety of data in order to achieve the objectives of the project. In short, these practical experiences will help give them – and Liberia as a whole – the skills they will need if they are to be competitive in the world economy in the 21st century.

–R. Jerome Anderson, JD/PhD, PYPP mentor

This program is contributing immensely to manpower development through support to various sectors in government…At the Ministry of Agriculture where I work, given their performance on the job, two PYPs have been given the opportunity to pursue higher studies (Masters and PhD-level) to enable them to contribute to the growth and development of the country.

–Teakon J. Williams, PYPP trainer

The PYPP is building a tech savvy crop of talented and committed professional civil servants for the Government of Liberia…Whenever I gave an assignment that needed some analytical inputs to the PYP I was mentoring, he would deliver a high quality output on time and he did not require much supervision.

–Dr. Marios Obwona, PYPP mentor

SIAFA HAGE, PYP MENTOR AND FORMER SCOTT FELLOW

I am proud to be associated with the PYPP. As a mentor to two Young Professionals in classes I and III, I have been able to witness the maturation of the program and the graduates. Graduates have gone on to become government directors, presidential appointees, and even to lead the program. Program graduates have stayed engaged with the PYPP and routinely given back to the program. PYPs have developed bonds that transcend the program. Cohort members routinely hold impromptu reunions and reach out to one another for personal and professional support. They also continue to rely on their mentors long after their official mentor/mentee relationship ceases.

I have cherished my time mentoring my PYPs and continue to support them whenever I am called upon. But, the time is quickly approaching when the tables will turn and mentors will be seeking support from PYPP graduates. For me, this has already happened. Recently, I needed help navigating through the bureaucracy of a particular ministry. My first instinct was to call a PYP graduate working in the ministry involved. She was able to guide me through the bureaucratic process and help me achieve my goal. As I watched her interact with her colleagues, I was impressed by the level of authority and respect she garnered within the ministry. No doubt, the values, skills and mentorship that she received during the program give her the requisite skills needed to be a leader within her organization.

Page 13: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 12

MEET SOME OF THE PYPSOver the program’s first five years, 77 PYPs have served in 15 ministries and 10 agencies in Liberia’s government, holding a range of positions and always applying their talents to Liberia’s challenges.

LUCIA D. GIBSON, CLASS IActing Human Resource Director, Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs & Tourism

What professional moment are you most proud of since beginning your time as a PYP?When I was selected by the Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA) as the leading participant among eight participants from Liberia and

Sierra Leone after the Experience Sharing Workshops JICA organized. The workshop was about sharing success stories of participants who readily made positive impact in their various ministries upon their return from the a set of workshops in Ghana sponsored by JICA for middle-level civil servants from Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you think being a PYP will help you get there?In five years’ time, I see myself as a contributor to the National Development Agenda of Liberia and a change agent to positively impact my generation.

The process has already begun, because of the conduct of several training workshops with young people, I am being considered as a role model. Some young people have called to thank me for the impact of the workshops in their lives and workplaces. Sometimes I am reminded of them when we meet in public places. The most recent incident occurred at the Ministry of Education when the receptionist selected me as one of the facilitators of the PYPP Job-Shop Workshop held for the graduating class of the Stella Maris Polytechnic and then asked for my number. I am currently seeking scholarship or sponsorship through the Ministry of Education for further studies to prepare for the change I hope to see.

What is the single most important way the PYPP has shaped your life?I am being shaped professionally. I began as an Administrative Assistant to the Deputy Minister for Administration, rose to the position of Special Assistant, and now I am serving as Acting Human Resource Director. I have attended both local and international training workshops, notably the Ethical Leadership for Quality Productivity Improvement and the Training of Trainers session sponsored by JICA in Ghana. With the skills and knowledge acquired from these training programs, I now facilitate training workshops. I facilitated workshops for one of the cadets’ programs organized by Youth and Sports in collaboration with Mercy Corps and some of the Responsive Training workshops for PYPP Classes IV and V.

Page 14: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia13

VELEGAR KEMAH, CLASS IIChief Accountant, Ministry of Internal Affairs

Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you think being a PYP will help you get there?I see myself as a high-level financial civil servant in the next five years. The PYPP played a major role in getting me to my current position and will still play a major role in helping me get there by continuing to expose me to opportunities that provide me with critical skills.

What is the single most important way the PYPP has shaped your life?The Ministry of Internal Affairs experience given to me through the PYPP has helped me become a strong and professional person. It has made me capable of solving problems-both work and inter-personal related problems. With such skills, I can stand out in any environment.

KETURAH M. SANDIKIE, CLASS IIISpecial Assistant, Ministry of Transport

What professional moment are you most proud of since beginning your time as a PYP?After graduation in 2011, I was searching for a job and in the process of writing applications when I first heard about the PYPP through a radio announcement that was recruiting the third class.

I was not only eager because of a job prospect but also because this announcement offered something different from other job announcements. Unlike other job offers, which always required work experience of about three years, the PYPP was going to train you for the job. I was also excited because the PYPP provided just what I needed upon graduation: an opportunity to serve my country through the public sector at a professional level. The application process was competitive, but I took up the challenge, submitted my application, and was accepted.

Another professional moment was when my mentor was appointed as the Minister of Transport and she asked me to work with her as her Special Assistant because she appreciated my work with her as a PYP.

Page 15: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 14

CHRISTOLLIE COLLINS, CLASS IVConcession Analyst, National Investment Commission

What professional moment are you most proud of since beginning your time as a PYP?In September of 2014 during the heat of the Ebola crisis, I was called by Hon. Dorbor Jallah to work as the administrator on the logistics team in the National Ebola Response. He said that I had been highly recommended by some professional colleagues and he wanted to give me the opportunity to

serve my country. Of all the highly qualified professionals in the country at that time I was given the opportunity to give back to my country and that made me feel really proud.

What is the single most important way the PYPP has shaped your life?One thing I learned from Mr. Saah N’Tow while he was the PYPP program director was that “obstacles are the things you see when you take your eyes of the goal.” This single statement, coupled with the skills training provided by the program, has helped shape the way I think and respond to situations. I never focus on the problems but rather look at the end results I aim for and try to shape my actions in a way that helps me achieve those results. I always look for the opportunities in every situation and don’t ever settle for mediocre.

ARTHUR REX FOMGBEH, JR., CLASS IVProject Analyst, National Housing Authority

What professional moment are you most proud of since beginning your time as a PYP?There are quite a few moments that stand out for me since my time as a PYP, but one notable moment was when I was drafting a Sale, Mortgage and Marketing strategy for the sale of the National Housing Authority’s

(NHA) housing units out of Monrovia to be given to the Ministry of Education (MOE). I drafted this strategy with short notice as my boss was busy with other matters out of the office. He asked me to draft it for his review, but by the time he got back to the office it was late and he and the Managing Director had to leave for the meeting right away. He requested the document from me and left without reviewing it. On their way to the meeting, he went through it and was impressed, so he submitted it when the Managing Director requested the document from him. The Managing Director was also impressed and during their meeting which I wasn’t a part of. They then gave it to the MOE Ministers, who bought into the idea and were convinced, saying, “This is excellent.” When my bosses returned they both thanked me for a job well done. I felt accomplished on that day!

Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you think being a PYP will help you get there?I aspire to be a Career Diplomat and Development Specialist in five years. I have already embarked on said journey; I acquired a post-graduate diploma in Contemporary Diplomacy and International

Page 16: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia15

Relations and was just awarded a scholarship by the Liberian Government to study International Relations in the People’s Republic of China. I think I am well place to achieve this feat. With the basic training and tenets of the PYPP, as well as the network it has opened me to, I know it is playing a major role in my realizing my dreams.

DANIEL D. WLEH, JR., CLASS VConcessions IT Officer, Forestry Development Authority

Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you think being a PYP will help you get there?In five years, I see myself being one of Liberia’s leading public policy expert and also an accomplished certified ICT specialist.

What is the single most important way the PYPP has shaped your life?The PYP has made me discover my full potential and has sharpened my skills to an appreciable level. It has also placed me in an advantageous position to interact with and learn from seasoned professionals who would expedite my career development process and enable me discover my full potential.

MBALAN H.B. NUFEATALAI, CLASS IIIProgram Officer, Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs

What professional moment are you most proud of since beginning your time as a PYP?There are so many moments of pride since becoming a PYP but the overarching among them was when I first presented (along with my colleagues) a comparative research on good governance in the region, coupled with implementation analysis, and a suggested way forward for

Liberia to Madame President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and the Vice President.

Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you think being a PYP will help you get there?In five years, I will be a major opinion Leader in Liberia. As a civil servant I expect to be in the position of a Deputy Minister, Minister proper, or the head of a public agency.

My time as a PYP has and will continue to be the guiding principles all my professional life. To treat all opportunities with the same vigor and determination, and to always remain focused on the goal.

What is the single most important way the PYPP has shaped your life?The PYPP created and maintained for me the single timeliest platform that is delivering my economic, professional, educational, and social dreams.

Page 17: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 16

PATIENCE Y. KARLEY, CLASS VBudget Officer, Ministry of Finance & Development Planning

Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you think being a PYP will help you get there?In the next five years I can see myself as a major contributing factor to improving our financial system and my time as a PYP will get me there; all of the responsive trainings have taught me lessons and paved ways for me to get there.

What would you say to other young people about the program that will encourage them to join?I will encourage them to take on the initiative to be a part of improving the public sector with sincerity and honesty by joining government established institutions and programs to help deliver our country. I will also encourage them to get on board with innovations and creativity to move the nation forward.

PRECIOUS WELEKERMAH TOKPAH-FLOMO, CLASS VCadastral Officer, National Bureau of Concessions

What professional moment are you most proud of since beginning your time as a PYP?A professional moment I am most proud of was my engagement with the e-Government Strategic Assessment, which entailed visiting all government ministries, agencies, and commissions. Working on the assessment was when I first felt the true meaning of mentorship,

especially as a young and aspiring woman.

Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you think being a PYP will help you get there?In five years, I see myself holding a key position at the National Bureau of Concessions and participating in the formulation of requisite policies that will shape the lives of individuals and my country at large. I also want to see myself as a role model for other young people.

What is the single most important way the PYPP has shaped your life?The PYPP has shaped my life is so many ways professionally and academically. But most importantly, it has provided me requisite skills and training opportunities that have shaped my life positively and made me more efficient and effective at my work place.

Page 18: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia17

VAMUYAN A. SESAY, CLASS VEconomist for Monetary Sector, Ministry of Finance and Development Planning

How did you hear about the PYPP, and what made you apply?I came across the PYPP when I was still a sophomore student at Cuttington University. While checking a university bulletin for new updates, I saw an advert with the caption: President’s Young Professionals Program. I carefully read it and afterward, I immediately became inspired,

not just by the job opportunity it offered young Liberians, but also by its long-term aspiration of “building the next generation of Liberia’s civil service leaders.”

So as I considered the positive correlation between the program’s inspirational objectives and my professional development goals as an aspiring leader, I realized that by joining the PYPP, I could attain my goals. And I kept this in my mind until graduation. After graduation, I did not hesitate to apply for the program. I was confident that being a member of the program would afford me the opportunity to acquire hands-on professional skills and expertise in public sector management. It would put me in the right position to contribute effectively to the national development processes.

Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you think being a PYP will help you get there?Five years from now, I want to see myself as a problem solver, an active civil servant, and a researcher. I am certain that my time as a PYP can greatly help me in achieving these goals because of the practical professional experience and support I receive daily from mentors, co-workers, and the program at large.

What is the single most important way the PYPP has shaped your life?The program has shaped my life by giving me professional confidence coupled with public sector management skills and improved research ability.

Page 19: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 18

As part of their orientation, PYPs write letters to themselves in the future, looking ahead to their hopes and fears for the coming two years:

“As a PYP I wish to commit myself to doing whatever task given to me, building in me

the passion to explore the inner working of my ministry, writing and interpreting policy,

researching, helping to manage projects, building a long and lasting relationship and

honestly commit myself to the call to national duty. With the above, my dream of

becoming a director, minister, or serving in the foreign service will be a reality.”

-Shedrick Seton, Class I

“Though the challenges are here, I can promise you that I am going to face those

challenges through my influential means, my commitment, and my ability to work with those from diverse backgrounds. Handling issues in a more professional way and

dealing with them more constructively will be one of that major tasks that anyone

including myself can do or will do. Finally, I promise to live up to my commitment.”

-Patience Karley, Class V

“By June 11, 2013 I should be in a good working relationship with my mentor, and

be able to understand the Government of Liberia’s budgetary processes and

procedures...I would make sure to understand and be perfect on duty so as to help

me gain the confidence of my mentor, which will give me more opportunities to become a public finance expert.”

-Roland Lankah, Class IV

Page 20: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia19

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE PYPP

“The PYPP is one of the best programs for Liberia I’ve seen. It is helping to groom

young people with professional skills to show their love for this country by

making a difference in the government.”

-Vice President Joseph N. Boakai

“We’re all working together to build the best Liberia possible, and I am confident [the PYPs] are capable of making that a reality.”

-US Ambassador Deborah Malac

Page 21: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 20

“ At the beginning, the PYPP was faced with lot of skepticism, nay saying,

cynicism, and doubt, because people thought it was nearly impossible to find young, refined, and focused Liberian recent graduates. Of course, this was at a time when universities of Liberia had gone through several years of war and

devastation and people felt it would be nearly impossible to find young Liberians qualified for public service.

President Sirleaf challenged us and John Snow, Inc. (JSI) stepped up, but the most

important pieces were the determination and resilience of the PYPs, coupled with

the unbending support from the Hess Family Foundation, Daphne Foundation,

Nike Foundation, and other trainers, mentors, and supporters who never stopped

believing in the PYPP.

Now five years later, the PYPs are in key positions of trust at various government ministries and agencies. It underscores the fact that it is simply unwise for any

nation to underestimate the power and potential of its youthful population. The

president’s vision is the proof.”

-Saah C. N’Tow, Deputy Minister for Youth Development in Liberia and Former Director of the President’s Young Professionals Program

“Continue on your journey towards excellence, as the cream of the crop, applying

your knowledge and your skills for the betterment of yourselves and for the

peace and prosperity of our nation.”

-H.E. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Left to Right: Hon. George Werner (Minister of Education), Hon. Eugene Nagbe (Minister of Youth and Sports), International Advisory Board (IAB) Chair Betsy Williams, H.E. Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, IAB member Sarah Kovner, and Hon. Saah Charles N’Tow (Deputy Minister for Youth Development).

Page 22: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia21

“By investing in the leadership and training

of the most promising young Liberian

leaders, PYPP is building a future for our

country. This is a program that not only

strengthens leadership and civil society

for its own sake, but it has strengthened

Liberia’s ability to respond to a host of

issues from responding to Ebola to building

the private sector. I’m proud to be a

supporter of PYPP.

I grew up in Liberia, and have had the

chance to work with many incredible

Liberians throughout my career. It’s clear

to me that Liberia’s future hinges on the

strength of our young leaders and the public sector. While working in diverse

fields like health to the private sector, young leaders are building a stronger Liberia in partnership with PYPP.”

-Raj Panjabi, PYPP International Advisory Board Member and Founder, Last Mile Health

“The PYPP is an incredible program that

has been hugely successful in a very

short period of time. I truly believe that

the PYPP, and everyone who participates

in the program, are a key piece of

Liberia’s future development and path

towards prosperity. We are on the cusp

of something great.”

-Betsy Williams, PYPP Founder and Chair, International Advisory Board

Page 23: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 22

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE PYPP?The PYPP aims to place 100 additional young professionals in key government roles over the next five years, helping to strengthen the government of Liberia’s capacity, as a local entity in partnership with the Government of Liberia.

The transition is being supported by the Global Development Incubator and the PYPP’s newly established International Advisory Board. Like similar programs including the U.S. Presidential Management Fellows Program, the PYPP does not have a political affiliation and intends to serve all future administrations in Liberia.

Over the coming years, the PYPP also hopes to extend its impact beyond Liberia. The need for talented, capable, and committed leaders in public service is global. By

inspiring young people to join civil service and giving them the tools they need to succeed, the PYPP model has the potential to be replicated and tailored to the local contexts of other countries that could benefit from stronger government capacity and leadership. The PYPP aims to begin in 2016 by exploring how the model might be replicated in the Mano River region including Guinea and Sierra Leone.

Page 24: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia23

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING YOUNG LIBERIANS WHO MAY BE INTERESTED IN THE PYPP?

The PYPP is like a stepping stone that propels young people into their future career. The experiences and professional network acquired during the years of training will add enormous value to you as an individual and that value will last for a lifetime.

–Christollie Collins, Class IV

Pursue and strive for excellence in all you do. Be disciplined and intelligent in all you do and the sky, not just the PYPP will be the limit for you. This program offers you one of the best chances to build your career as a professional and a public servant.

–Arthur Rex Fomgbeh, Jr., Class IV

The PYPP method affords and compels you to become the professional they want to showcase. You become an ambassador for the many faces and voices you see through your job each day. You have a full appreciation of the challenges your fellow PYPs in their specific field of work and together you all learn and build on the experiences from one another.

–Mbalan H.B. Nufeatalai, Class III

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO SEE FOR THE PYPP IN THE FUTURE?

I hope to see a broad based network of young leaders, professionals, technocrats, innovators, and patriots reliably leading much desired reforms across our governance structures at the national, provincial, and local levels. It is my desire to see the program expanded and used as a model for effecting parallel changes in other aspects of our national life.

–Dr. Edward McClain Jr., PYPP mentor and Minister of States for Presidential Affairs

My hope is for the PYPP to continue to forge a reputation as an apolitical capacity development program whose value to Liberian society is recognized by future presidents. My hope is for it to become a nationally renowned institution whose merits are as pronounced and celebrated as other national institutions such as the Booker Washington Institute (BWI) or the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI).

–Siafa Hage, PYPP mentor and former Scott Fellow

Page 25: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 24

THE PRESIDENT’S YOUNG PROFESSIONALS, CLASSES I-V:PYP NAME CLASS MINISTRY, AGENCY, OR CORPORATION POSITION

Gwakolo Wilfred IJohn F. Kennedy Medical Center, Cater Center Mental Health Project

Project Coordinator, Mental Health

Lucia Gibson IMinistry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism

Acting Human Resource Director

Nada Ajami-Tondo I Ministry of Education Early Childhood Development Specialist

Nyanda Finda Yekee-

DavisI Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director for Passport and VISA

Tendra Tenwah I Ministry of Health & Social Welfare Coordinator

Joseph Sessay I Ministry of Agriculture Studying for PHD in Uganda

Amos N. Tubor IMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Senior Program Officer, Social Integration and Political Affairs

Rebecca Kwabo I Civil Service Agency Studying in Ghana

Shedrick Seton I Ministry of State Technical Assistant, office of the DMA

Hh K. Zaizay I President's Young Professional Program Executive Director

Theophilus Baah II Ministry of AgricultureCounty Agriculture Coordinator, Lofa County

Abdoul Derrick

DuannahII John F. Kennedy Medical Center

Research and Clinical Assistant to Chief Medical Officer

Abraham Dagher II Ministry of Education Administrative Assistant

Elchico M. Fawundu II Ministry of Foreign Affairs Research Analyst

Julius Saye Keh-nel II Ministry of Commence & Industries Director, Access to Market

Cassandra Hampton II Ministry of Lands Mines & EnergyChief Administrative Officer, Small Medium Enterprise

Dahnu Mianyen II Ministry of Youth & Sports Program Officer

Boakai Jalieba II Ministry of Youth & SportsAssistant Minister for Youth Development

Musu Flomo II Ministry of Agriculture Administrative Assistant

Moses Zolue II Ministry of Agriculture Soil Scientist (Studying in US)

Nyeotee Zorgbai IIMinistry of Gender, Children & Social Protection

Finance Administrative Assistant

Leah Tomah -Zinnah II Ministry of Education Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist

Romell Wleh-Clarke II Environmental Protection Agency Administrative Assistant

Togar Tarpeh II Ministry Internal AffairsProgram Assistant, Peace Building Project

Vegelar Kemah II Ministry of Internal Affairs Chief Accountant

Ciata Armah Stevens III Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs Studying in Netherlands

Elizabeth H. Kwemi III Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Technical Assistant

Talifa Roger Suah III Ministry of Foreign Affairs Technical Assistant

Rita E. Kiawoin III Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Research Assistant, Research Unit

Leela K. Zaizay III Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Studying in Uganda

Kunan Vesselly III Ministry of Agriculture Studying in Uganda

Page 26: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

The President’s Young Professionals Program of Liberia25

Mbakai Vapliah III Ministry of Agriculture Studying in Kenya

Hawa Dunor IIIMinistry of Gender, Children & Social Protection

Studying in Tanzania

John G.S. Mayon III National Oil Company of Liberia Administrative Assistant

J. Alben Greeves III Ministry of Justice Coordinator, Child Justice

Keturah M. Sandikie III Ministry of TransportSpecial Assistant to the Minister (Studying in China)

Peter N. Ben III Liberia Revenue Authority Internal Auditor

Josephus Kettor III Liberia Revenue Authority Auditor

Fredrick S. Cooper IIIMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Assistant Coordinator

Lorbah C. Roberts IIIMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Studying in Uganda

Gudi J.N.D Neufville III Ministry of Commence & Industries Studying in US

Linclon K. Blojay III Ministry of Commence & Industries Deputy Comptroller

Michael Kwabo IIIPublic Procurement Concessions Commission

Research Assistant, Office of the CEO

Miatta-Fatima Kromah IIIPublic Procurement Concessions Commission

Research Assistant, Office of the Executive Director

Winnerford Prout

RichardIII Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs Project Officer (Studying in China)

Mbalan Nufeatalai III Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs Project Officer (Studying in UK)

Joseta S. Neufville III Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs Project Officer (Studying in US)

Albert K. Samukai III Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs Project Officer (Studying in UK)

Eyea P. Booker IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Analyst Budget Development and Dissimilation

Emmanuel N.B.Flomo IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Analyst Budget Forecasting and Development

Agnes Payeker IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Budget Analyst (Studying in China)

Sarah M. Johnson IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Senior Budget Policy Officer

Johnson Williams IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Assistant Director- Budget Development and Dissimilation

Jamel Dugbeh IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Economics

Matthew G.Garway IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Analyst-project Appraisal and Compliance

Roland Lankah IV Ministry Internal Affairs Senior Financial Analyst

T. Cornelius Tugba IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Budget Analyst (Studying in US)

Varkpeh Gonowolo IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Senior Budget Analyst

Amos N.Sando IVMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Statistician

Page 27: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 26

Christollie A. Collins IV National Investment CommissionAdministrative Assistant (Studying in China)

Hennistta W.Nyangbe IV Liberia Maritime AuthorityLegal Assistant/Paralegal (Studying in China)

Authur Fomgbeh IV National Housing Authority Project Analyst (Studying in China)

Agnes Nushann IVMinistry of Gender, Children & Social Protection

Acting Coordinator, Adolescent Girls Unit (Studying in US)

Paul P. Jerbo VMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Planning Economist

Kulele V. Morris VMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Planning Budget Analyst

Vamuyan A. Sessay VMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Planning Economist

Patience Y. Karley VMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Analyst, Budget Development and Dissimilation

Deborah Queminee VMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Planning Budget Analyst

Calvin Famgalo VMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Planning Analyst, Budget Development and Dissimilation

Prince S.Doelar VMinistry of Finance & Development Plaining

Planning Analyst Project Development

Daniel D. Wleh Jr. V Ministry of Agriculture Concessions IT Officer

Francilia Marah V Environmental Protection Agency Concessions IT Assistant

Precious W.Tokpah V National Bureau of Concessions Assistant Coordinator, Cadastre Office

Learn more at www.PYPPLiberia.orgThe President’s Young Professionals Program and the Global Development Incubator would like to thank all the staff members, PYPs, mentors, supervisors, trainers, and other friends of the program who contributed to this report.

Page 28: The President’s Young Professionals Program - · PDF filepeople not as a problem to solve, ... Development program run by the national Investment Commission. ... 9 The President’s

Five Years of Building the Next Generation of Civil Service Leaders in Liberia 27

www.PYPPLiberia.org