In a bid to foster compassion, kindness, and a sense of humanity among the youth, the Liberian Red Cross has been engaged with students sharing vital information on its humanitarian operation as well as promoting humanitarian values and principles. “Our engagement has been an opportunity to ignite passion and sow seeds of inspiration”, the LNRCS Communication Officer explains, adding: “We shared insights into our operations and the profound impacts we make in communities”.
According to Oniel Bestman, the Liberian Red Cross is aiming to spark a flame within these young minds, empowering them to envision themselves as the next generation of humanitarian workers and leaders. The Liberian Red Cross has continually received requests from school administration for visitation at the LNRCS Headquarters on Lynch.
In December 2023, about 80 students from St. Teresa’s Convent of the Catholic School System were at its headquarters on an exposure mission. In March 2024, we had the privilege of meeting with 37 bright minds from the St. Maria Goretti Institute in upper Caldwell and seven students from the Rebecca Academy School of Excellence at our Headquarters.
It has been heartwarming to see the enthusiasm and passion in these young minds as we inspired them to consider becoming the next generation of humanitarian workers and leaders. “We believe in nurturing and empowering the leaders of tomorrow, and our regular interaction reaffirmed our commitment to this cause” Mr. Bestman emphasized.
“In every word spoken and every story shared, we saw the potential for change, the power of compassion, and the resilience of the human spirit in the students, and we believed we’re not just shaping a brighter future; we’re cultivating a legacy of empathy and action”.
Mr. Gregory T. Blamoh, the Secretary General of the Liberian Red Cross, also seized the opportunity to inspire and motivate young minds during the visit. He emphasized the importance of instilling values of sharing, caring, and a strong sense of belongingness in their communities. Mr. Blamoh encouraged the students to envision themselves as the future generation of humanitarian workers who would carry forward the torch of compassion and kindness.
“We want you to be the next humanitarian workers, to replace us in the future. But you have to be a shining example among your peers with strong humanitarian values, discipline, and a sense of compassion and kindness,” remarked Secretary General Blamoh, emphasizing the pivotal role the youth play in carrying forward the legacy of humanitarian efforts.
The students while on their field mission always tour the headquarters of the LNRCS and are shown the image and profile of the founder of the Red Cross Jean Henri Dunant. The students have always been interested in knowing about some of the major disasters or emergencies in Liberia and the role and impact of the Red Cross in the response.
The Red Cross Communication team has always warmly received the students and showed them videos and images of major humanitarian happenings, positioning the Red Cross as a first responder. The exposure mission not only shed light on the Red Cross’s impactful work but also sparked interest among the students in considering careers dedicated to humanitarian causes.
The Liberian Red Cross remains committed to empowering and inspiring the youth, recognizing them as the torchbearers of humanitarian efforts in the years to come. The visit by the students of various schools serves as a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering a new generation of compassionate leaders and dedication to creating a living legacy that underscores the true power of humanity.
