The Youth Rising Project Awareness Phase III, led by YARD-Liberia, Inc., has become a beacon of hope and transformation for young people in Lower Margibi County especially for young women and girls who have long faced barriers to education and opportunity.

More than just an awareness campaign, this phase represented a community mobilization movement that reignited interest in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a practical pathway to self-reliance and economic empowerment. Supported by the European Union and implemented through the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in collaboration with the Government of Liberia, the project engaged youth, parents, educators, and local leaders through town hall meetings, school-based sessions, and targeted dialogues.

Stories of Change

One of the most inspiring stories emerged at the Harbel Multilateral High School TVET Center, where 19-year-old Esther shared her journey. Forced to drop out of high school due to financial constraints, Esther spent two years supporting her mother in petty trade. After learning about TVET during a Youth Rising town hall meeting, she enrolled in a tailoring program at a nearby vocational institute. Within three months, she began sewing school uniforms for local students, gaining both income and renewed confidence. Her story has since inspired many young girls who had once lost hope in pursuing education or meaningful careers.

Community Impact

The project’s influence went far beyond individuals. During a joint dialogue at Harbel Multilateral High School, administrators and local officials pledged to integrate TVET orientation into student guidance services. Interest in skills such as masonry, electricity, ICT, and cosmetology grew significantly, while new partnerships between communities and training institutions helped young people better understand enrollment options, available courses, and post-training opportunities.

Spreading the Message

To ensure inclusivity, YARD-Liberia extended its outreach through radio talk shows on stations like Radio Margibi and Radio Harbel. Call-ins from parents, youth, and former students transformed passive listeners into active participants. Female TVET graduates were especially influential, breaking gender stereotypes and showing that vocational skills can equally empower young women to thrive in business and employment.

Building Momentum

Phase III of the Youth Rising Project Awareness not only raised awareness but also ignited action. By combining direct community engagement with mass communication, the initiative built momentum, stirred hope, and opened doors for countless young people.

The results measured in confidence, skills, and improved livelihoods are clear evidence of the project’s lasting impact. With stronger partnerships and continued support, YARD-Liberia believes this initiative is laying the foundation for a skilled, self-reliant generation ready to transform Liberia’s future from local communities to the nation as a whole.