Jill Solo, a visually impaired drugs advocate and counsellor in Monrovia, Liberia, is appealing for financial assistance to undergo computer literacy training. This training, he believes, is crucial to enhancing his work with at-risk youth at the Journey Against Violence Rehabilitation Center, where he volunteers. Solo’s dedication to this cause stems from a personal journey marked by both adversity and achievement. Despite losing his sight during a soccer game incident, he persevered and became the first and only visually impaired person in West Africa to successfully complete the University Training Class (UTC) program. This program, sponsored by prominent organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Carter Center, equips participants from rehabilitation centers across Liberia with essential skills. Now, Solo seeks to further his professional development by acquiring updated computer skills, recognizing their importance in his counselling career.
Solo’s successful completion of the UTC program, despite his visual impairment, is a testament to his resilience and determination. Among 182 participants and 25 trainers, he stood out as the only visually impaired individual, successfully navigating the challenges and emerging victorious. This achievement, recognized by his UTC facilitators, led to their recommendation for further computer literacy training, a crucial skill for effectively applying his counselling abilities in the digital age. He has identified the African Methodist Episcopal School on Camp Johnson Road in Monrovia as his preferred institution for this training. His previous computer knowledge, acquired before losing his sight, requires updating to align with the demands of his new career path.
The incident that led to Solo’s visual impairment occurred during a soccer game. While making a pass to a teammate, an opponent threw sand into his eyes, causing irreversible damage. Despite undergoing two surgeries, one in Liberia and another in Ghana, his vision could not be restored. Accepting this reality, Solo has chosen to focus his energy on serving others, finding purpose and meaning in assisting those struggling with substance abuse and violence. He views his current predicament as an opportunity to strengthen his faith and rely on divine guidance.
At the rehabilitation center, Solo plays a vital role in conducting risk assessments for individuals recovering from substance abuse or violent behavior. Utilizing specialized instruments, he determines the risk level of each individual, classifying them as low, moderate, or high risk. This assessment, based on professional protocols, informs the recommendation of appropriate detoxification and treatment programs tailored to each individual’s needs. Solo’s expertise in this area is essential to the center’s success in helping individuals overcome their challenges and reintegrate into society.
Despite the challenges posed by his visual impairment, Solo remains a dedicated husband and father of nine children. His commitment to his family underscores his unwavering dedication to serving others. He recognizes the importance of providing for his family while simultaneously pursuing his passion for helping those in need. This dual commitment drives him to seek further training, understanding that enhanced skills will lead to improved career prospects and a greater ability to support his loved ones.
Solo’s appeal for assistance highlights the transformative power of education and the importance of supporting individuals with disabilities in pursuing their goals. He believes that acquiring computer literacy will significantly enhance his ability to document assessments, communicate effectively, and continue serving as a beacon of hope for those struggling with addiction and violence. By investing in his training, philanthropists, humanitarian organizations, and well-wishers can contribute to the empowerment of a dedicated individual and amplify his positive impact on the lives of vulnerable youth in Liberia. Solo’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a call to action for those who believe in the transformative power of education and opportunity.
