The Geneva Reeves-Johnson Foundation Incorporated (GREJOF, Inc.) has graduated 27 participants from the first cohort of its Baking and Pastry Arts Skills Training and Empowerment Project, reaffirming its commitment to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and vocational education in Liberia.
The graduation ceremony, held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, was part of activities marking the foundation’s 11th anniversary, bringing together government officials, institution partners, educators, graduates, and community members to celebrate the successful completion of the seven-week intensive training.
The initiative is part of GREJOF’s flagship Youth Empowerment and Mentorship Program (YEMP™), which equips young Liberians with practical vocational skills while promoting leadership, entrepreneurship, community service, and Alzheimer’s-dementia awareness.
Founded in the United States in 2015 and launched in Liberia in 2022, GREJOF honors the legacy of the late educator, humanitarian, and mental health advocate Geneva Reeves-Johnson. The organization focuses on youth development, vocational education, mentorship, civic engagement, Alzheimer’s awareness, and community service.
Delivering the keynote address, Ms. Neva P. Wesley, Officer for Trade and Commerce at the Trade and Investment Office in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, described vocational education as a vital driver of Liberia’s economic transformation.
She noted that Liberia’s technical and vocational education sector has struggled for decades due to years of underinvestment and the destruction caused by the civil conflict, resulting in a persistent skills gap among young people.
With more than 60 percent of Liberia’s population under 35, Wesley emphasized that expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is essential to reducing unemployment and promoting entrepreneurship.
She praised GREJOF for complementing government efforts by providing free vocational training. “The Geneva Reeves-Johnson Foundation is demonstrating that investing in skills is not charity, it is nation-building,” she said, urging graduates to use their new skills to establish businesses, create jobs, and become agents of change.
In his anniversary message, GREJOF Founder and CEO Emmanuel N. Reeves Sr. thanked God for sustaining the organization over the past 11 years and reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the humanitarian legacy of his late mother through education, vocational training, Alzheimer’s awareness, and community development.
Congratulating the graduates, Reeves urged them to apply their skills to improve their livelihoods while contributing to national development. “We believe investing in human potential is essential for building stronger communities,” he said.
GREJOF Country Director Mr. James D. Kweemine described the graduation as another milestone in the organization’s mission to empower Liberians through education and practical skills. He disclosed that CEO Reeves is expected to visit Liberia in July to engage with beneficiaries and stakeholders.
Kweemine encouraged graduates to immediately begin using their new skills rather than allowing their certificates to remain idle.
“This training is not for you to sit at home. It is for you to begin earning income, supporting your family, and building your future,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Mrs. Helena B. Clarke described the training as life-changing, noting that many participants began with no prior baking experience but developed valuable skills through determination and practice.
She thanked GREJOF and CEO Emmanuel Reeves for providing the training free of charge, saying the certificates represent opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, and a brighter future. Clarke also commended the trainers and management team for maintaining high standards throughout the program.
Earlier, Program Director Mr. John M. Gray giving the overview said the seven-week course emphasized practical competency, discipline, and attendance. Although the training was fully sponsored by GREJOF Chief Executive Officer Mr. Emmanuel N. Reeves Sr., participants were required to meet strict attendance and performance standards.
Mr. Gray noted that several participants who enrolled did not complete the program, stressing that graduates earned their certificates through commitment and hard work. He encouraged them to use their new skills to establish small businesses, provide catering services, and support their families while pursuing further education.
He also highlighted GREJOF’s broader initiatives, including youth mentorship, Christian youth programs, community awareness campaigns, and additional vocational training projects.
The graduation highlighted the growing importance of vocational education as Liberia continues to tackle youth unemployment and economic challenges.
As GREJOF celebrates 11 years of humanitarian service, officials say the successful graduation of its first Baking and Pastry Arts cohort marks the beginning of expanded skills development initiatives aimed at empowering young Liberians, strengthening communities, and preserving the enduring legacy of Geneva Reeves-Johnson.
