Dr. Thomas Nimene Tweh, Jr., a former candidate for the Montserrado County District #11 representative position, is urging the youth of Liberia to harness the power of entrepreneurship as a means to uplift their lives and combat poverty. During his recent address at the Faith University College Business & Leadership Conference, he emphasized the pressing need for young Liberians to embrace business opportunities amid the nation’s ongoing instability and economic struggles. With many individuals facing significant challenges in improving their circumstances, Tweh’s message serves as both an invitation and a call for action for the younger generation to pivot towards self-sufficiency through entrepreneurial endeavors.
At the conference, which attracted over 500 young attendees, Dr. Tweh focused his discussion on the critical theme of financial literacy and the value of money. He urged students to practice diligent money management, highlighting that financial prudence can lead to both personal and professional growth. Dr. Tweh cautioned against frivolous spending, encouraging youth to view money not merely as a tool for immediate gratification but as a resource that should be invested wisely. The repetition of this message underscores the idea that understanding financial principles is foundational to building a successful business mindset and achieving lasting prosperity.
Despite his recent political setbacks, including disqualification from the 2023 elections due to dual citizenship issues, Dr. Tweh remains a respected figure in his community and an advocate for holistic development. His experience as a humanitarian adds weight to his call for youth engagement in business, imparting the notion that entrepreneurship is not solely about individual gain, but can also serve as a vehicle for community upliftment. Alongside him, various speakers shed light on the multifaceted nature of entrepreneurship and its vital role in fostering economic empowerment and progress for individuals and the wider society.
Among the speakers was Abraham Kiazolu, a World Bank Project Coordinator, who echoed Dr. Tweh’s sentiments by discussing entrepreneurship’s integral role in sustainable development. He highlighted how fostering a culture of business can lead to broader community prosperity. Likewise, Pastor Mrs. Agnes Weeks Garley from Faith University College discussed financial stewardship within families, arguing that financial stability at home is crucial for the overall economic health of the community. Her insights brought a familial perspective to the discussion, emphasizing that solid financial practices are not just beneficial on an individual level but are essential for nurturing responsible citizens.
Another key speaker, Mr. Jarvik Tarpeh, spoke about the transformative power of information technology in business. He delved into how modernization and innovative approaches can drive business growth and success, particularly in an age where technology dictates market trends and operational effectiveness. The integration of information technology in entrepreneurship is paramount for young Liberians who wish to remain competitive. With unique challenges in creating opportunities, the insights offered by Tarpeh highlighted the necessity for young entrepreneurs to embrace technological advancements to navigate today’s dynamic business environment effectively.
Lastly, Dr. Tailey Garley, the CEO of Faith University College, concluded the robust conference by discussing the importance of strategic planning and business reengineering. He pointed out the need for adaptability among Liberian youth, who are often hindered by a lack of prospects. Dr. Garley’s message served as a motivational note, encouraging young people to develop forward-thinking strategies that allow them to overcome hurdles while seizing opportunities in a rapidly changing economic landscape. With the collaborations and shared insights of these speakers, the event successfully galvanized the attendees towards a collective vision of entrepreneurship as a pathway to personal fulfillment and national development.