In 2020, Rescue Youth Alliance (REYA), founded by renowned journalist Sylvester Choloplay, launched its first entrepreneurial project, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s mission to empower underprivileged youth in Liberia. This groundbreaking initiative not only aimed to equip young people with essential entrepreneurial skills but also sought to raise vital funds for scholarships and academic resources for students in need.
A Collaborative Vision: The Role of Partnerships
The success of this entrepreneurial project would not have been possible without the generous support of Bineyam Nani Tumbo, REYA’s U.S.-based partner, who donated $1,500 USD to help bring this vision to life. Tumbo’s contribution was pivotal, providing the necessary resources to launch the project and create tangible opportunities for the youth involved. His partnership also underscored the power of international collaboration in making a real difference in local communities.
The project’s dual purpose was clear: raising funds for underprivileged students while also teaching entrepreneurial skills to youth participants. Through this initiative, REYA was able to support students with scholarships and much-needed academic materials, while simultaneously empowering participants with practical tools for financial management, teamwork, and leadership development.
Equipping Youth with Essential Skills
The entrepreneurial training sessions were hands-on, focusing on real-world skills such as budgeting, managing finances, and working as part of a team. For many participants, this was their first exposure to these vital skills, which are often overlooked in traditional education systems. In addition to financial literacy, the program also emphasized leadership and personal responsibility, helping youth build the confidence and mindset needed to thrive both in their careers and in their communities.
As the program unfolded, participants learned how to start small businesses, manage projects, and market products—skills that are crucial not only for personal success but for contributing to Liberia’s broader economic growth. In this way, the project was not just about immediate benefits but about creating a long-term impact by preparing young people to be active contributors to Liberia’s economic and social development.
A Ripple Effect: Inspiring the Community
Beyond the immediate training and financial support provided to participants, the project also had a transformative effect on the local community. It showed that young people could take charge of their futures through creativity, innovation, and hard work. This entrepreneurial initiative became a source of inspiration for many, illustrating how youth-driven efforts can have a profound impact when supported by both local and international partners.
By demonstrating the potential of youth leadership and self-reliance, the project highlighted REYA’s core mission: to foster education, empowerment, and self-sufficiency among Liberia’s young people. It proved that, with the right guidance and resources, even the most disadvantaged youth can rise to become leaders, entrepreneurs, and active agents of change in their communities.
A Lasting Legacy: Sponsoring Students and Providing Educational Resources
One of the most meaningful outcomes of the entrepreneurial project was its direct impact on student education. Through the funds raised, REYA was able to sponsor 15 students, providing them with the financial support necessary to continue their education. Additionally, the project enabled the purchase of important school materials and other supplies, ensuring that these students had the tools they needed to succeed academically.
This act of sponsorship not only alleviated the financial burden on these students and their families but also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of access to education. It is a cornerstone of REYA’s work to create pathways for underprivileged youth to gain the knowledge and skills they need to build brighter futures.
Looking Forward: A Foundation for Future Empowerment
The success of REYA’s first entrepreneurial project stands as a proud milestone in the organization’s ongoing journey to empower Liberia’s youth. It is a testament to what can be achieved when visionary leadership, community engagement, and collaborative partnerships come together for a common cause.
The support from Bineyam Nani Tumbo remains a cornerstone of this success, and his continued partnership serves as a beacon for future initiatives. The lessons learned from this project will guide REYA in launching similar programs, further strengthening Liberia’s youth and helping them become leaders and changemakers in their communities.
As REYA continues to build on this success, we remain committed to developing more entrepreneurial and educational programs that equip young people with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. The legacy of this first entrepreneurial project will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Liberian youth to dream big, work hard, and pursue their goals with confidence.
