By Victor Quetee September 18, 2025
HARPER, Maryland County – Youth leaders from across Liberia reflected on their roles in promoting peace, reconciliation, and empowerment during an impactful online leadership forum hosted over the weekend by the Dehkontee Artists Theatre, Inc. (DATI). The session was moderated by DATI’s founder, Dr. Joseph Gbaba, from the United States.
A key presentation was delivered by Mr. Melvin T. Weah, a prominent youth leader from Maryland County, who spoke on the theme, “Pioneering Peace, Reconciliation, and Youth Empowerment in Person.”
Mr. Weah stressed that young people must take a hands-on approach to nation-building. “Pioneering peace and reconciliation means promoting understanding, tolerance, and conflict resolution,” he said. He added that true empowerment comes when youth develop the skills, confidence, and agency to participate actively in their communities.
He urged his peers to create their own opportunities through direct engagement by:
- Volunteering in community initiatives that promote peace.
- Embracing education to broaden understanding and empathy.
- Engaging in open dialogue to build bridges across divides.
- Taking up leadership roles that prioritize justice and social harmony.
The forum also featured a detailed presentation on the principles of leadership by Jerry Kandakia of Margibi County. Mr. Kandakia defined leadership as the ability to influence, motivate, and guide individuals toward a common goal. He outlined key qualities such as vision, integrity, accountability, and empathy, distinguishing effective leadership from simple management. His talk explored various leadership styles, from autocratic to transformational, reminding participants that true leadership is built on trust, motivation, and fostering growth.
The session concluded with a call to action for all Liberian youth. “As students and young leaders,” Mr. Weah concluded, “we have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact and build a culture of peace, understanding, and social responsibility.”
The DATI National Youth Leadership Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for young Liberians to gain knowledge, exchange ideas, and prepare for leadership roles in peacebuilding and national development.