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They Say, I Say, We Say. A Liberian Magazine. Issue No.1
Citation preview
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIBERIAN SLANG
BY : Winston Smith
LIBERIA SEVERS TIES WITH LIBYA
BY : Patience Landford
THE SCOOP ON LIBERIA’S MENTAL HEALTH
BY : Grace Moore
BIOGRAPHIES
FASHION SPREAD
BY: Gamai - Korto Matthew
TASTE OF LIBERIA
BY : Maseta Dubar
CELEBRATE SUCCESS
BY : Randell Dauda
EDITORS
Grace Moore, Unice Karmue
Ellen Witherspoon
DESIGN AND LAYOUT
Jones M. Harris and Andre Jones
THE MISSION
BY : Lorece Shaw
Mission Statement: The goal of They Say, I Say, We Say, is to celebrate the achievements of this
generation of Liberians in order to perpetuate the rich history and culture of our great country Liberia.
They say you can’t judge a book by its cover; however, Africa is one continent that constantly judged and misrepresented. In fact, some people attempt to define Africa as though it is a country with only one group of people. As children of the great African diaspora, we know that Africa is multi-cultural and multi-ethnic. This is evident even in our country Liberia which is made up of over 20 ethnic groups. With They Say, I Say, We Say, we hope to dispel any misconceptions about our country and Africa as a whole by informing people about the achievements of members of the young adult Liberian community.
Inside They Say, I Say, We Say, you will find:
• Traditional Liberian recipes and sayings• Spotlights on non-profit and charitable organizations that focus on uplifting the Liberian people and other communities• Highlight on individuals that have contributed to the film, music, sports, arts, literary and other entertainment industries. • Events going on in the Liberian communities and beyond• Progress being made in Liberia• And, Anything Liberian!
I say the future of our country, as well as the black community in America rests on the shoulders of young Liberians. We must keep the Liberian culture, pride, and interests alive and in the forefront of people’s minds. It is up to us to continue to rebuild our communities so that our children will appreciate and understand the values cultivated by the unique Liberian lifestyle. It is our hope
that They Say, I Say, We Say serves as a platform for Liberians and all with the interest of Liberia in gaining insights on the Liberian experience, both back home and in the States.
We say that the time is now to unite as Liberians. It is this generation that will be the focus of They Say, I Say, We Say. This is our voice and our truth as young people. We must continue the path that has been laid before us, but also forge our own great future, and strive to leave a legacy that will lead to betterment for our people and the world.
“All Hail, Liberia Hail. All Hail, Liberia Hail. In union strong, success is sure. We cannot fail.”
Writer: Lorece Shaw
=
TiYATIEN
BY : Unice Karmue
BACK TO MY ROOTS
BY : Pamela D. Manneh
LIBERIAN
Writer: Winston Smith
Who said we don’t have slangs? Or we are not cultured enough to have our spoken codes? Well they’re wrong!
I mean, absolutely wrong! Indeed we have a rich culture fill with codes and slangs, there’s a new slang or spoken
code created almost every day! Liberians are so creative that we can generate new slangs just by viewing things
around us or listening to music. If you are Liberian you already know what we’ve done to Brenda Fassie’s song
“Vuli Ndlela” and other popular African songs. We are exceptionally unique in our linguistic abilities. Below, for
appetizer sick, are slangs that are especially common among young Liberians:
- Winston Smith
Slangs
COMEDY
Coming from a country where only 58% of the population is literate, it is no surprise that education remains the number one priority for many young Liberians here in the US. With their peers back home struggling with the odds of finding a good enough school and the burden of paying for such a school, Liberians abroad are taking full advantage of every presented opportunity.
This graduation season, hundreds of young Liberians walked across the stage receiving diplomas, degrees, certifications, etc. It is always quite an honor to be recognized for one’s achievement, but it is even more of an honor to be recognized by one’s own people in their traditional ways.
It is in this light that we are asking that you send They Say, I Say, We Say the names and/or pictures of young Liberians and their achievement stories. We want to show the rest of the world the progress we are making and in doing so acknowledge all the hard work being done by young Liberians. In our own Liberian tradition; let’s pull out the lappa and congratulate all of you.
doing so acknowledge all the hard work being done by young Liberians. In our own Liberian tradition; let’s pull out the lappa and congratulate all of you. Send Name, Date of gradation, Type of achievements (high school, college, new employments, etc) and a picture of the graduate (if you have one). Email info to: [email protected]. We look forward to sharing your achievements in future articles.
Kind regards,Ms. Randell Dauda
CELEBRATESUCCESS!
insert your photo
insert your photo
LIBERIA SEVERS TIES WITH LIBYA!!
Picture: Libyan President Gaddafi and Liberian President Ellen Johnson
Liberia detached diplomatic ties with Libya on Tuesday June
14, 2011. Liberia is the latest African country to break ties with
Libya leader Muammar Gaddafi. The decision came just after
the United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called on
African countries to sever ties with Libya.
According to the Liberian Foreign Ministry press release, the
Government made the decision after a careful review of the
situation and problems that are currently taking place in Libya.
President Sirleaf office has been quoted to say “the violence
against the Libyan people must stop, and the Government of
Colonel Gaddafi has lost the legitimacy to govern Libya”.
The government of Liberia has made the decision to withdraw
the Liberian envoy from Tripoli and suspend activities of the
Libyan representation in the Liberian capital city of Monrovia.
The government of Liberia also suspended the operations
of the Libyan people bureau in Monrovia and expelled
ambassadorial status for its diplomats who remain loyal to
“Colonel Gaddafi regime”.
Gaddafi has been using Libya’s oil wealth to invest in poorer
African countries in order to gain political and financial
influence on the African continent.
The government of Liberia stated that “As one of the oldest
African independent republic, Liberia has fought relentlessly
for the decolonization of the continent and for subjugated
and oppressed people to freely exercise the right to self-
determination”
“Liberia has always given recognition to independent countries
and not individual governments”, the Liberian Foreign Ministry
release said. Liberian government stated that “The expectation
is that having gained freedom and independence, the Libyan
people will freely choose their own government in whatever
form or fashion.”
According to the same Foreign Ministry release, “The current
situation in Libya does not lend itself to giving the people of
that country the freedom to choose their own government and
to determine the future of their own country”.
Liberia believes in the rights of the people and the liberation
from dictatorship governments. Until the people of Libya gain
their freedom and independence from Colonel Gaddafi regime,
Liberia stands firm on their decision in severing ties with Libya.
Writer: Patience Landford
POLITICS
Chamo- (pronounce: Cha-Mo) means your girl, could be your serious girlfriend or your side chick. People
usually use that when discussing their side chick. An example of this is: “My man, la my chamo there ooo”.
Translation: That’s my girl right there.
Akon DJ- (pronounce: A-Con DJ) this is how people in Liberia call Mohawk. The name was inspired by Akon’s
DJ when he visited Liberia along with Akon for a concert. The hairstyle has become very popular in Liberia since.
Tumba- (pronounce: Tum-Ba) means butt; this is when a girl is carrying a serious cannon behind her. An
example of this being used is: “That chamo got tumba ooo”. Translation: The girl has a big butt.
Plawa- (pronounce: Pla- Wall) means argument. This is used when someone says something that offends
you and you’re trying to get their angle on why they made such statement. An example of this is: “La plawa you
looking for you?” Translation: Are you looking for an argument?
La Fire- (pronounce: I’m sure you can see the name) this is used when you say something and the person
don’t understand what you said then you can tell them. “La Fire coming from my mouth?”
Pekin- (pronounce: Pea-Kin) means a kid or anyone you feel like you’re older than or more superior to. An
example is: “La my pekin there”. Translation: That’s my kid or my little guy there.
Chi-chi Poly- (pronounce: Chey Chey Po-lay) means someone who can gossip. Anyone who loves to gossip
is considers a chi chi poly. An example is: “The other one like running chi chi poly.” Translation: This person like
gossiping.
Feesee- (pronounce: Fee-See) means the person has very minimum ability (in sports, dancing, singing, or etc.).
An example is: “The other feesee na come on the soccer field.” Translation: This kid of very minimum skills has
come on the soccer field.
K E N D E J A HRestaurant & Lounge5828 GEORGIA AVENUE, NWWASHINGTON, DC 20011202-291-7541 (Tel) 202-291-1565 (Fax)OPEN TUESDAY – SATURDAY: NOON – 9:00 P.M.CLOSED ON SUNDAYS & MONDAYS
OF LIBERIATASTE
What is a better way to experience one’s culture other than food? Food is a fascinating and convenient way to test out and enjoy different cultures and lifestyles. There’s so much that food reveals about a group of people. Food illustrates the main staples and crops grown in that region, the belief systems that are shared amongst the people, the climate, and most importantly, the history and heritage of the people. Liberian cuisine is symbolically significant to and reflective of Liberian culture and history. The Liberian diaspora enabled the sharing of Liberian culture throughout the world. Areas with large Liberian population, such as New York, Philadelphia, Rhode Island and Maryland/DC have developed restaurants that showcase the unique taste of Liberian cuisine. One restaurant that stands out in the District of Colombia, Maryland and Virginia region, is Kendeja Restaurant and Lounge.
Kendeja Restaurant and Lounge is well known for its delicious food and great atmosphere thus it is one of my favorite restaurants and favorite places to party at. If you are ever visiting the District of Colombia and are looking for a chop shop that reminds you of back home in Liberia, go to Kendejah Restaurant and Lounge, they have exactly what you want and need to put an end to your nostalgia for a home cooked Liberian meal. Although there are many restaurants that offer West African food, Kendejah is the only of the few African restaurants that
specifically serve Liberian cuisine. You will find on their daily menu cassava leaf and my favorite, palava sauce, a spinach like meat stew that is served with rice. There are more delightful and mouth-watering dishes like chicken gravy, eggplant, collard greens, baked fish with fried plantains, and of course fufu and soup. Sorry, there’s no palm wine, but there is Liberians’ all -time favorite, ginger beer to wash down that delicious meal. With appetizers and desserts starting at $2.00 and entrees ranging from $10.00 to $13.99, Kendejah Restaurant and Lounge cannot be beat; they are the ultimate champions of Liberian cuisine hence their livelihood since being established in 1985.
It is family orientated and also an excellent spot for young professionals to meet. The host makes you feel comfortable by active interaction while you wait for your meal to be prepared. It’s a dining experience you do not want to miss. Kendejah continues to be the spot for great Liberian food, and a fun atmosphere. There are special events such as Jazz on Wednesdays and Happy Hour on Fridays and if you feel like showing off your coupe decale and makossa, Kendejah is also the place to do so every Saturday night. Come enjoy great music and coupe the night away. It is no surprise that Liberian artists such as Chris De Shield have been present at Kendejah. If you are looking for quality food and service and a fantastic atmosphere, come to Kendejah’s Restaurant and Lounge and get a taste of Liberia.
LAMCO
Here at They Say, I Say, We Say Magazine, we set trends.
We don’t follow them. From here on out, I suggest you
follow suit because here at They Say, I say, We Say we take
fashion from the modern perspective of the motherland.
From the way we dress to impress at work to the way we
out dress the savviest of socialites at parties, They Say,
I Say, We Say magazine is putting a spin of African flare
on every day wear. The elaborate fabrics and modernized
traditional garments featured in this spread are from my
up and coming clothing line by the name of Guwala da
Nele, meaning “Beautiful and Strong” in Kpelle, a Liberian
language. These designs were created by myself, Garmai-
Korto Matthew. I was inspired to do this shoot by Liberia’s
youth today. We are young, innovative, and very
fashion forward.
In this very first fashion spread I take you back down
memory lane, by train that is. You hear the rustle and bustle
of passengers moving about. Luggage is moving to and
fro. It is now 10:00 pm. Guys are loosening their ties from
a long day’s work and unbuttoning their elaborate vest.
Ladies are kicking off their heels to relieve their aching feet.
Some party goers anxiously await the next train, ready
for a good time. This is my interpretation of what Liberia’s
old train station by the name of Lamco looked like on a
daily basis. This train station used to be the main source
of transportation where business workers and normal day
people traveled from place to place. It was a hot spot for
the locals to communicate. Fashion, language and culture
flowed throughout the atmosphere just like the trains
whisking past.
-Garmai- Korto Matthew
Designer: Garmai- Korto Matthew
Clothing Line in Spread: Guwala da Nele Clothing
Models:
Breanna Nicole
Shatesha Wilder
Breanna Nicole
Thaddeus Greene
Casey Johnson
Photography by: Kidz With Gunz
GUWALA DA NELE BOW TOP
GARMAI- KORTO MATTHEW
GDNCLOTHING.TUMBLR.COM
Garmai- Korto Matthew
Garmai- Korto Matthew’s is a young up and
coming African inspired designer. Her line
goes by the name of Guwala da Nele meaning
“Beautiful and Strong” in Kpelle, a Liberian
language. This line includes African inspired
garments to eccentric pieces. Garmai- Korto
Matthew is a 19 yr old innovator making her
mark on the fashion industry and the world
as a whole in a huge way. Her fashion journey
all began at a very young age. In elementary
Garmai- Korto drew thumbnails and sketches
of phenomenal garments she would someday
pursue to create. She always had an artistic
gift and was motivated to achieve her goal
of being a Fashion Designer. Garmai- Korto
was born in Cleveland, OH and was raised in
a rich African Culture. Her parents are from a
country in West Africa by the name of Liberia.
Her family always encouraged her to embrace
her culture. Through this, Garmai- Korto was
inspired to create modern traditional wear
that were more fitting and fashionable than
temporary tradition attire. She is currently
studying Public Relations and Fashion Design
and plans on making Liberia one of Africa’s
fashion capitals and providing jobs and
services of philanthropy to her people.
GUWALA DA NELE MICRO MINI DRESS
GARMAI- KORTO MATTHEW
GDNCLOTHING.TUMBLR.COM
LEFT: GUWALA DA NELE DRESS
GARMAI- KORTO MATTHEW
GDNCLOTHING.TUMBLR.COM
RIGHT: GUWALA DA NELE STRAPPLESS BOW
TOP AND HIGH WAISTED KHAKI DRESS
GARMAI- KORTO MATTHEW
GDNCLOTHING.TUMBLR.COM
Mental health has been a low priority in Liberia for a
long time. Mental health resources are extremely limited
in Liberia, as of now there are only two known facilities.
There is an overwhelming inadequacy in resource and
drug supplies, and the lack of trained mental health
professionals is a major problem facing the country, in
light of the issue there are major improvement as of now;
however not enough.
It is significant for this generation of Liberians to note the
close relationship between poverty and mental illness.
While it is well known that mental illness hinders the ability
of individuals to learn and engage in productive endeavors,
it is not generally understood that poverty itself is a risk
factor for mental illness, as many jobs and means of
making money do not allow space for people with mental
illness. Liberia must create sustainable and effective
mental health systems in order to cope with the growing
global burden of mental diseases. In recent years there
have been a slew of new possible mental health patients
in Liberia due to the horrendous almost two decades of
violence.
Historically, healers, “medicine man” and religious leaders
cared for mental patients in Liberia as most believed that
mental related problems were caused by witchcraft or
being demonically possessed. This understanding about
the nature and root of mental illness resulted in some
treatments
THE SCOOP ON LIBERIA’SMENTAL HEALTH:
OVERVIEW OF THE ISSUE being extremely harsh and inhumane. There were instances,
when patients were subjected to beatings in attempt to
“beat out” the demonic spirit, and food and sleep deprivation
(another attempt to remove evil spirit). Patients were also
restrained by having their legs and hands tied; as we now
know poor circulation can sometimes lead to deformity or
possible death. Patients who could not receive treatment
roamed free and suffered ridicule and violence (they were
given demeaning nicknames by community members),
imprisoned, and disenfranchised.
The issue has not been completely eradicated yet but
there are great knowledge and improvement in the field of
mental health. Liberians now understand the importance of
rehabilitation, and open-discussion of the subject. According
to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (2009) the
government has renewed the Mental Health Policy in the
country which now embodies a better model that propagates
justice for the population. The commonly held notion that
the youth is the future to Liberia’s success is far from an
understatement because Liberia youths are taking initiative in
the topic and are making immaculate difference that in time
will eliminate the ignorance on the topic of Mental illness.
Writer: Grace Moore=
HEALTH HEALTH
In 2007, Tiyatien health was founded by a survivor of Liberia’s civil war. In Zwedru, Liberia, it all began with Dr. Rajesh
Panjabi, a Liberian-born, Harvard-trained doctor, and Weafus Quitoe, a volunteer nurses aide in Zwedru.
Tiyatien Health soon grew to become an innovative social justice organization that partnered with rural
communities and the Liberian government to improve the lives and the health care system for the poor. Tiyatien Health
is an amazing health system to the less fortunate and is designed to be implemented by the themselves to create a self
sustainable health care system.
By creating a health care system around dynamics, Tiyatien Health believes it will serve as a model for rebuilding
healthcare in rural towns stricken by the detrimental effects of civil war and unrest. Tiyatien Health, along with the
government of Liberia work together to create stable relationships between rural health centers and their surrounding
communities.
The way TH goes about solving this health crisis by focusing on three major points of the system; better public
sector, health workforce shortages, and rampant poverty. “Our model features a backbone of community health workers
trained to accompany patients through their illnesses and beyond—linking the destitute sick to jobs, agriculture and
economic empowerment programs. This approach fills a crucial gap between health centers and the community, allowing
the public sector to provide comprehensive care for the people with complex illness like HIV, and epilepsy that previously
went unaddressed.”
“TIYATIEN” PRONOUNCED [tea-ya-tine] MEANS BOTH “TRUTH” AND “JUSTICE”.
DERIVED FROM KWA, THE LOCAL DIALECT OF SOUTHEAST LIBERIA
Writer: Unice Ernest Karmue
For more information, www.tiyatienhealth.org
Or email me, Unice Ernest Karmue; [email protected]
Picture: Members of a community in Zedru working with Tiyatien
MEET THE STAFF
Liberia, the land that many of us fled years ago, the land that
many more of us have yet to feast our eyes upon, and yet
it remains at the tip of our brains. There is a new epidemic
sweeping the entire world, Liberians and friends of Liberia
alike are taking advantages of the practical fares to Liberia
more than ever before. With both Delta Air and SN Brussels
flying to Robertsfield International Airport multiple times
weekly Liberians are utilizing it at all expenses. Mosetta
Weefur traveled to Liberia at the top of the summer after
almost being away from her homeland for more than a
decade. “I was overwhelmed, scared, excited, and happy all
at once” she mentioned. When asked her first thought after
landing, Mosetta clarified that it was a bitter sweet feeling,
“I missed Liberia with every bone in my body, and it felt as
if I was there to claim my thrown”. Along with Ms. Weefur
thousands of other Liberians traveled back to Liberia to
recollect, regain, and rebuild. As a result of her trip Mosetta
has enhanced her fashion line Ankara Doll by importing
Liberian made fabric in to the United States and she also
found motivation to start her own non profit dedicated to
decreasing the infant mortality rate in Liberia. South African
musician Lucky Dube’s popular hit song “Back to My Roots”
proclaimed exactly this; there is never an excuse not to
return home. Liberia needs us now than ever before, so take
advantage of those feasible rates, and book your flight to
Monrovia.
BACK TO MY ROOTS
Writer: Pamela D. Manneh
Picture: Mosetta taking advantage of low priced material by shoppingat waterside market
Picture: Birds Eye View- The view right before touch down at RIA
Picture: Mosetta (Middle) enjoying Monrovia’s night life at Embassy
TRAVEL
My name is Unice Ernest Karmue, but I
prefer to be called Ernest. I am currently
entering my 5th Years at Northeastern
University in Boston, MA. I am acquiring
Bachelor of Science degree in Biology,
concentrating on going to Medical School.
I was born in Bong County Liberia, but
spent most of my time in Ivory Coast due
to the civil war in Liberia. From traveling to
numerous countries in Africa, and Central
America, I strongly believe that Healthcare
and Education are the two vital basic
needs of developing countries. I am proud
to see young Liberians like my colleagues
doing so well, and hopefully we can all help
with the improvement of Liberia.
Petheree Norman is a Registered Nurse
and recent graduate of the University of
Virginia. She was born in Monrovia, Liberia
at Snapper Hill Clinic and moved to the
United States in 1998. She currently lives
in Charlottesville, Virginia. Petheree will
begin working as a Registered Nurse in
August for the University of Virginia Medical
Center. The connection she has always felt
to Liberia was strengthened after her recent
visit in December 2010, 14 years after
leaving her home. She spent her 4 weeks
in Liberia volunteering at the J.F.K. Medical
Center’s Maternity Hospital. Petheree hopes
to use her experience with this magazine to
highlight life, culture, health and all things
Liberian
My name is Patience Landford and i am a current graduate
student at Clark University, I earned my B.A in sociology from
the University of Texas and I am currently pursuing a Masters
of Arts Degree in International Development & Social Change
with a concentration in Sub-Saharan Africa and after that
I am looking to attain a PhD in Conflict Resolution. I hope
to one-day work for the United Nations as an Ambassador
or a foreign diplomat and help my country in any way that
I can. I currently work as a Public Relations Specialist for
the Unforgotten Fund a non-profit organization that does
work in India and Zambia by helping villagers in the poorest
regions of the world gain access to Safe Drinking Water |&
Education. I am also the creator and founder of Positive
Liberia a face book page and blog that highlights the current
and latest news in and about Liberia. It is a positive outlet
that shines light on the human rights issues in Liberia and
work along with those who are advocates of the cause.
My Philosophy is “We must be the change we want to see
in the world.” In order to change the world one must be
able to elevate themselves and their outlook on life through
Education. Being a young Liberian in the U.S, i greatly
understand the significance of Education and the impacts it
has on an individual life and a country success. Education
has been the core reason for social change, democracy,
economic growth and political empowerment for many
nations around the world. I strongly believe that the future
of our country lies in the hands of the youth of Liberia. To
educate them is to emancipate them from mental slavery and
various oppressions. Liberation and academic stimulation of
the mind is the key to success.
My name is Winston Smith. I recently graduated
from Roger Williams University, Bristol Rhode
Island with bachelors in Legal Studies and
Psychology and a minor in International Relations.
I also studied at the University of Edinburgh in
Scotland. I played four years of varsity soccer
at Roger Williams University, while also serving
as president for the university’s Student Athletes
Advisory Committee. My goal is to someday work
for the IMF or the World Bank. My participation
in this group is to unite young Liberians and
also enhance their knowledge on our culture
and success. I don’t think I can live with my
accomplishments if I am not able to help someone
else elevate their life. Our country needs to unite
and I think the best way to accomplish that is
through the youth. One day Liberia shall rise
again and it’s up to us to make that possible,
we are the next generation of leaders. Marianne
Williamson’s said, our deepest fear is not that we
are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are
powerful beyond measure.
My name is Maseta Dubar. I am 24 years old and
reside in Maryland. I was born in Monrovia, Liberia,
lived in Cote D’Ivoire for 4 years and moved to the
United States at the age of 7. I graduated from
the University of Maryland in 2010 with a Bachelor
of Arts in Government and Politics and a Minor
in International Development. I plan to start my
Masters in International Development in spring of
2012. Currently, I intern as the Executive Assistant
for UNESCO, United Nations Educational Scientific
and Cultural Organization and work part-time as a
Home Health Aid Nurse in Frederick, MD.
I am an altruist, whose goal is to establish
a Non-profit or NGO, focusing on solutions to
challenges of development, poverty alleviation
and gender inequality; primarily targeting issues
that women and youths face within Liberia and
neighboring African countries. I believe that “It is
important to nurture any new ideas and initiatives
which can make a difference for Africa” - Wangari
Maathai
I am Jones M. Harris. I graduated from
Wentworth Institute of Technology in
2010 majoring in Architecture: Design and
Culture. Currently I run an Architecture
& Design Services firm that focuses on
Development in Liberia. My goal is to one
day
design and develop every county in Liberia.
I believe that what happens to us in
this life is only a small part of our story;
how we react to it determines the rest.
Unfortunately civil war is part of Liberia’s
story but the work that this generation of
Liberians is doing will determine the rest.
It is an honor to be among the generation
that will make Liberia’s story a great one.
I currently reside in Providence, Rhode
Island.
My name is Sidney Richmond Divine. I was born in
Liberia and migrated here because of the unfavorable
conditions at the time. When things appeared to be
better, my family and I went back and I was able to do
some schooling in Liberia for a couple of years before
returning to the States due to conditions worsening back
home. Since the inception of those conditions, I’ve been
here completing high school at Green Pastures Christian
Academy where I won a state championship in basketball
and became the school’s first McDonald’s All American
nominee as well as Valedictorian of my graduating class
of 2006 at the age of seventeen.
Upon graduating from high school, I enrolled in a
small local college (Atlanta Christian College, now Point
University) before transferring to LaGrange College to
complete my undergraduate degree in General Studies
with a double minor in Business Management and
Coaching. At LaGrange College, I held various leadership
positions such as Resident Advisor, Social Council
Member, Student Athlete Advisory Committee Member,
and Captain of the Men’s Basketball Team. In addition, I
was a member of the college’s French Club, Chess Club,
and Black College Student Union.
Currently, I’m working on becoming a Financial
Advisor with a company that has been helping individuals,
businesses, and families with their financial security for
over 100 years. I’m in the process of getting licensed to
be able to better serve my (prospective) clients. My focus,
this early in my career, will be on business development
(attracting and retaining clients). In 2 years I’d like to take
my GMAT to get my MBA in Personal Financial Planning
and eventually sit for my Certified Financial Planner
exam and earn other designations that will enable me to
better help people (most of whom will be Liberians) plan
for retirement, sending their kids/grandkids to college,
protecting assets in the event of an untimely death/
disability of a primary income earner and any other
dreams they would like to realize.
Pamela Dehcontee Manneh is a senior
student majoring in political science (Public
Administration) minoring in international
communications at Winston Salem State
University. Despite the fact that Miss Manneh
was born in the US she has profound love
and devotion for Africa. In 2007at only 17, she
developed her own nonprofit African Youth
Empowerment, geared towards enhancing and
bettering the lives of youth in Liberia and Sierra
Leone. Other than running an international
nonprofit, Pamela was selected to be the Youth
Advocate for the Unity Party USA, a political
party supporting Her Exellency Madame Ellen
Johnson Sirleaf in her re-election. Mrs. Manneh
as for seen her future and is confident that her
calling is to aid and empower the voiceless
people of Africa.
My name is Ellen Witherspoon. I am a senior
double majoring in Accounting and Finance at Pace
University in New York City. I am currently an audit
intern at JP Morgan Chase. It is my goal to one-
day work as a Financial Consultant/ Auditor for a
500-fortune company on Wall St. I am also the Vice
President of the Pace University NABA chapter
(National Association of Black Accountants). The goal
of NABA is to uplift young African Americans and
prepare them for the professional world. I strongly
believe in the model of “Lifting as we climb” as I feel
that everyone eventually needs a helping hand. As
young Liberians who are bettering ourselves, we
should not forget about our other brethrens out there
who might need a push or some assistance in life.
As we learn and grow we should be eager to help
others so that they can in turn help someone else.
Being able to add to the progression of my country
and to help out young Liberians is definitely one of
my future goals and I hope this magazine will be a
steppingstone in that direction.
My name is Randell Dauda, and I recently
graduated from Northeastern University in
Boston, Massachusetts. While at Northeastern
University, I Majored in Psychology and
Anthropology. I am currently working full time as
an Injury Prevention Outreach Coordinator at the
Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. It is
my intention to start my Masters in Education
this fall. I hope to one day become a professor in
one of the social sciences. I am passionate about
teaching and community outreach. In my current
position I work with youths and give presentations
on violence prevention, alcohol/drugs prevention
and try to promote safe and healthy lifestyles. I
strongly believe in Margaret Mead’s quote “never
doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed
people can change the World”. I look forward to
making great changes along with all these young,
energetic, thoughtful and committed Liberians.
God bless.
Lorece Shaw is the 25 years old daughter of
Roland and Loretta Shaw. Although born in the
United States, she had her first visit to Liberia
at the tender age of 3, and she has always felt
great sense of pride in her Liberian heritage.
She completed high school at Michael E.
DeBakey High School for Health Professions in
Houston, TX. She then matriculated to Xavier
University of Louisiana where she studied pre-
pharmacy. Lorece obtained her Bachelor of
Science dual degree in Science and Pedagogy
at Houston Baptist University. She holds teacher
certifications in Composite Sciences 4-12.
Currently, she is finishing the requirements for the
Doctor of Pharmacy degree at Texas Southern
University. Ms. Shaw’s hobbies include writing
poetry, traveling, and social networking. She
is an active member of the Fountain of Praise
in Houston where she serves as a young adult
ministry leader. Additionally, Lorece is a member
of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
and Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity,
Incorporated. She looks forward to her next visit
to Liberia and making contributions to Liberia’s
future.
Garmai- Korto Matthew is a young up
and coming African inspired designer. Her line goes
by the name of Guwala da Nele meaning “Beautiful
and Strong” in Kpelle, a Liberian language. This
line includes African inspired garments to eccentric
pieces. Garmai- Korto Matthew is a 19 yr old
innovator making her mark on the fashion industry
and the world as a whole in a huge way. Her fashion
journey all began at a very young age. In elementary
Garmai- Korto drew thumbnails and sketches of
phenomenal garments she would someday pursue
to create. She always had an artistic gift and was
motivated to achieve her goal of being a Fashion
Designer. Garmai- Korto was born in Cleveland,
OH and was raised in a rich African Culture. Her
parents are from a country in West Africa by the
name of Liberia. Her family always encouraged her
to embrace her culture. Through this, Garmai- Korto
was inspired to create modern traditional wear that
were more fitting and fashionable than temporary
tradition attire. She is currently studying Public
Relations and Fashion Design and plans on making
Liberia one of Africa’s fashion capitals and providing
jobs and services of philanthropy to her people.
My name is Natasha Kennedy, but people often
call me Tasha. I am currently a Senior at Rhode
Island College majoring in Communication:
Speech, Language and the Hearing Sciences.
Throughout my High School and College trek
I’ve been privileged to work intimately with
the Liberian Community Association of Rhode
Island, even finding myself as Youth President
in my early High School years. Working along
with the community gave me an opportunity to
exchange ideas with my elders as well as my
peers. I learned while working with both people
my Senior and equal that giving everyone a
voice goes a long way. We as youth are not
only able to help each other come up with
creative ideas but we can also teach are elders.
Currently working in the human services area
with people who are physically and mentally
incapable has taught me a lot about myself
as well as the people around. I’m not only
excited to work on this project, but even more
enthralled to be in the company of so many
talented and motivated young people.