Africa-Press – Liberia. In a celebration rich with culture, pageantry, and purpose, the Bill Rogers Foundation made a bold commitment to enhancing educational and recreational opportunities for youth in Margibi County. The occasion was the crowning of Miss Ruth G. Yah as Miss District #4, held in the historic town of Larkayta and attended by traditional leaders, youth advocates, and special dignitaries, including Miss Sandra Kabah, Miss District 17 of Montserrado County.
At the heart of the celebration was a resounding message: beauty with a purpose must be coupled with action, leadership, and development.
“This isn’t just about a crown. It’s about community transformation,” said Mr. Bill Rogers, the Foundation’s founder and a renowned youth advocate. “We cannot sit and watch our children go to school without chairs, latrines, or safety. That is unacceptable. We are here to change that—together.”
In her acceptance speech, the newly crowned Miss District #4, Ruth G. Yah, expressed deep gratitude to the Foundation, the district’s local authorities, and the five clans—Konoquelleh, Wiah, Gamosue, Golohumah, and Waymaquelleh—for their support.
“This title is not just about beauty—it represents strength, responsibility, and the hopes of many young girls in our district,” she declared. “I pledge to use this platform to advocate for education, youth empowerment, and community pride.”
Representing Montserrado County, Miss Sandra Kabah shared her inspiring journey from obscurity to triumph. “This is my first time in District #4, and I’m amazed by the warmth and energy,” she said. Recounting her victory at an international competition in Nigeria, Kabah added, “Even when people doubted me, I didn’t give up. Queenship is not about the cash prize—it’s about the platform, the purpose, and making a difference.”
She encouraged her peers to stay bold and focused. “Fear is real, but courage gets you crowned. Stay true to your dreams.”
Traditional leaders praised the Foundation for uniting communities and nurturing young leaders.
Clan Chief Edwin K. Naimah of Cinta stated, “From Kolonkwolekwan to Larkayta, this program is bridging gaps, promoting peace, and inspiring development. To our Queen, walk with wisdom—your voice now carries weight.”
Town Chief Moses Kepeda David of Larkayta added, “Among many girls, you were chosen. That is divine. But know this—being Queen means service. Lead with compassion.”
In his keynote speech, Bill Rogers outlined plans to expand educational access and introduce recreational programs across District #4. “We’re distributing sports jerseys and organizing youth activities to encourage school attendance and reduce violence,” he said.
He also highlighted the Foundation’s broader goal of advocacy-driven development: “We’ve produced queens who represented Liberia internationally. One became Miss United Nations from Liberia. That’s the power of investing in youth.”
Sharing his personal story, Rogers recounted rising from adversity. “I was once broken in this country. But I went to the U.S., became a professor, and returned because this is my root. If I can rise, so can the children of Larkayta.”
He issued a call for collective action: “This is not politics. It’s the future we’re fighting for. Let’s rebuild our schools, support our girls, and give our youth a chance.”
As the event closed with cultural performances, traditional blessings, and vibrant community participation, plans were hinted at for a King’s competition—to expand the empowerment movement to young men in District #4.
Community members left inspired, united by a shared mission: that through partnerships, tradition, and visionary leadership, the dreams of Liberia’s youth can indeed come true.
“The crown isn’t the end—it’s the beginning,” said one elder. “Let’s all play our part.”
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