Mac Nagbe Nelson has carved out a remarkable path of service and leadership, despite the challenges that most often test the limits of resilience of many youths in Liberia. His story is a shining example of perseverance, transformation and an unwavering belief in the power of young people to shape the future. From being the Executive Director of a local youth group, Pursuit for Positive Action Youth Organization, to now being appointed at the national level as Pillar Lead for Risk Communication & Community Engagement for Liberia’s National Mpox Response, Nelson’s journey continues to motivate, inspire and uplift.
A Dream That Started Young
Nelson’s service and leadership journey began in 2010, when he and his colleagues founded the Pursuit for Positive Action Youth Organization. As Executive Director, he poured his energy into empowering Liberia’s youth—raising awareness, fostering engagement, and building leadership skills. His work wasn’t just about programs; it was about creating a movement that gave young people a voice, purpose and a sense of direction.
By 2012, Nelson’s efforts had taken him beyond Liberia’s borders. Representing his country at the United Nations Youth Assembly in New York, he stood as a proud activist for the potential of young leaders. A year later, Youth Service America named him a champion for Global Youth Service, recognizing his ability to inspire change not just locally, but globally.
A Global Activist with a Local Heart
Nelson’s dedication to youth service, empowerment, and leadership earned him recognition at every turn. In 2014, he was selected to serve on the Council of Youth Advisors to Ambassador Deborah Malac, the former U.S. Ambassador to Liberia. The following year, he was honored with the Global Youth Icon Award in Chennai, India, during the International Youth NGOs Summit. These accolades weren’t just trophies—they were affirmations of his commitment to making a difference.
In 2016, Nelson’s service and leadership journey reached new heights when he was selected as a fellow of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). This prestigious program connected him with global leaders and gave him the tools to refine his vision for impactful transformation.
An Entrepreneur, Educator and Published Author
He established Mac Nagbe Nelson Consultancy Firm (MACON) in July 2017 as a means of using the private sector to drive the creation of jobs and empowerment through employment and skills development. MACON has provided consultancy to over 100 individuals and institutions, signaling the immense contribution that one person can make once given the tools, skills and opportunity to be the very best version of themself.
Education has always been central to Nelson’s passion, mission and vision. He earned degrees in Economics, International Relations, Education, and Teaching, and later became an adjunct faculty at the African Methodist Episcopal University and the University of Liberia. In the classroom, he’s not just a lecturer—he’s a mentor, shaping the minds of future leaders.
Nelson’s passion for inspiring others led him to write his debut book, Bottom Up, published in February 2019. The book, launched at New York University, tells the story of his early life—a journey of struggle, commitment, transformation and success. It’s more than a memoir. It’s a call to action for young people everywhere to rise above their circumstances and reach their full potential.
A New Chapter in Service
In 2021, Nelson stepped down as Executive Director of Pursuit for Positive Action Youth Organization to focus on academia and consultancy. His dedication and contribution to academia was recognized in May 2025, when he received a Certificate of Honor from the Political Science Students Association of the African Methodist Episcopal University for his invaluable guidance to students’ academic growth and knowledge development.
Nelson’s journey didn’t stop there. On June 5, 2025, Dr. Catherine Thomas Cooper, Deputy Minister for Health Services and Chief Medical Officer/RL, appointed him as Pillar Lead for Risk Communication and Community Engagement for the National Mpox Response. In this critical role, Nelson is helping to guide Liberia’s public health efforts, working closely with Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, Director-General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia.
A Legacy of Leadership
Today, Mac Nagbe Nelson is many things— an author, diplomat, entrepreneur, educator and risk communication specialist. His appointment to the Incident Management System is the culmination of 15 years of resilience, learning and improvement. It’s a reflection of his deep commitment to serving his country and empowering its people.
As Communications and Health Promotion Consultant to the Minister of Health, Nelson is ensuring that communities across Liberia are informed, engaged and protected before, during and after a public health outbreak. His work is not just about strategies and policies—it’s about ensuring that every person lives a healthy and prosperous life.
On July 8, 2025, Nelson turned 36 years of age. He has left the youth age and is now redefining himself on the national stage; showcasing that with time, we can also evolve, adopt and transform our lives based on our dreams, passion and the mantra of leaving the world a better place than we met it.
Mac Nagbe Nelson’s story is more than a personal success—it’s a powerful reflection of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. This proves that no matter where we start, with time, determination and a heart for leadership, we can rise to become a pillar of inspiration and aspiration.
