In an era marked by economic uncertainty, S. Aaron Weah-Weah, Country Technical Lead for IREX, urged young people of Liberia to build a resilient mindset as they navigate the complexities of today’s world.
Speaking over the weekend at the 3rd Annual General Assembly of Montserrado County YMCA, held at the Eugene H. Cooper Sr. Conference Hall, Weah encouraged attendees to embrace resilience as a foundational skill to turn challenges into opportunities.
The event, hosted at YMCA’s National Headquarters on Broad Street, centered on the themes of “collaboration, resilience, and innovation.” Weah addressed an enthusiastic audience, calling on Liberia’s youth to engage in community service, social advocacy, and personal development. He emphasized the critical need for young people to stay determined, adaptable, and hopeful, no matter how turbulent the world may seem.
Highlighting the potential for growth amidst adversity, Weah stated, “Your future lies in creating solutions that not only address current challenges but also pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable society.” He reminded the gathering that history has repeatedly shown how moments of hardship can give rise to transformative ideas and movements.
Weah urged the youth to adopt a proactive mindset, viewing obstacles not as roadblocks but as fertile ground for creativity and resilience. Weah underscored the importance of continuous learning and adaptability, noting that these are essential tools for thriving in an ever-evolving world.
He encouraged young people to embrace all forms of learning, whether through formal education, online courses, or life experiences, emphasizing that curiosity and a willingness to grow are invaluable assets.
Recognizing the value of guidance, Weah urged the youth to seek mentors who can support and challenge them in their personal and professional growth. “It’s not the obstacles themselves but rather how we respond to them that will ultimately define our paths,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of resilience and a positive outlook.
He reminded the audience that failure is an inevitable part of the journey to success, describing setbacks as essential learning experiences that foster strength and determination. Weah encouraged attendees to surround themselves with a supportive community that values risk-taking and promotes the pursuit of passions, suggesting that such a network is crucial for personal and collective progress.
Weah also highlighted the transformative power of collaboration, urging the youth to unite, share ideas, and leverage their collective strengths. “In these uncertain times, working together can yield extraordinary results,” he asserted. He encouraged young people to engage in initiatives that extend beyond individual goals, from community service projects to entrepreneurial ventures and social advocacy efforts.
Throughout his speech, Weah emphasized the importance of discovering a personal “North Star” — a sense of purpose that inspires and guides each individual. He encouraged the youth to identify what drives them and to pursue it with tenacity, describing purpose as the key to navigating challenges and inspiring others along the way.
“The world needs your unique talents and perspectives,” he said, urging attendees to recognize their potential to lead, innovate, and make a difference.
He further called on the youth to engage in meaningful discussions on social issues, economic policies, and environmental challenges, stressing that their voices and actions have the power to shape a more just and sustainable future. He described hope as a powerful force that can drive ambition and inspire change, encouraging the young generation to advocate for the transformations they wish to see.
In closing, Weah acknowledged the difficulties posed by the current economic landscape, yet he offered a hopeful perspective. “While the environment may be challenging, it also serves as a canvas for your dreams to flourish,” he stated.
He urged young people to view these obstacles as stepping stones, embracing the opportunities that arise from struggle. Weah reminded them that resilience, continuous learning, and collaboration are essential to turning aspirations into reality and leaving a positive impact on the world.
