14/07/2025
Liberian-American Barbara Lewis Calls for National Reflection on Youth Unemployment
By Wonder P W Gborwee Jr
On Monday, July 14, 2025, Liberian-American advocate Barbara Lewis appeared as a featured guest on the talk show “Liberia in Focus”, aired live on Radio Kergheamahn 94.5 MHz. The program, which continues to serve as a platform for dialogue on key national issues, hosted Lewis for an in-depth conversation on one of Liberia’s most pressing challenges: youth unemployment.
The topic for discussion, titled “Youth Unemployment in Liberia: A Social Burden and a Spiritual Responsibility,” struck a chord with many listeners both in Liberia and across the diaspora. During her appearance, Lewis highlighted the growing economic and psychological impact of youth joblessness in the country and emphasized the urgent need for collective action.
“We cannot ignore the weight of this issue any longer,” Lewis stated during the broadcast. “Unemployment among young people is not just a number on a report — it’s a reality that affects our homes, our communities, and the moral fabric of our nation.”
Lewis, who has lived in the United States for over a decade, said she continues to follow the situation in Liberia closely. She described the widespread unemployment of youth as a dual crisis — one that impacts not only the economy, but also the nation's spiritual and moral foundation.
“When young people lose hope, the nation loses its future,” she said. “This is not just about jobs. This is about dignity, direction, and destiny.”
Throughout the hour-long segment, Lewis called on government leaders, civil society, religious institutions, and especially the Liberian diaspora, to take a more proactive role in addressing the issue. She urged unity and a renewed sense of national responsibility.
In one of the most powerful moments of the broadcast, Lewis reminded listeners of the importance of national identity and pride. Her message was clear and heartfelt:
“Love Liberia as a Liberian. Love who you are.”
According to Lewis, such love should be expressed not only in words, but in action — through mentorship, job creation, education, innovation, and investment in the country’s youth.
Listeners from across Liberia called and texted into the program, expressing support for Lewis’s message. Some commended her for speaking boldly and calling attention to the spiritual dimension of the youth crisis, which is often overlooked.
