MARSHALL – The air was thick with emotion and celebration as the Clar Hope Foundation held its inaugural graduation ceremony for the City of Hope Academy in Marshall, Margibi County, on Friday. Former First Lady Clar Marie Weah, now the CEO of the foundation, took center stage to defend the organization’s integrity amidst recent allegations of financial misconduct.
In heartfelt remarks, Mrs. Weah asserted that the foundation relies solely on international support, firmly refuting claims that any government funds had been used in its operations. “My heart is clean. There is not a single cent from government money in what I’m doing here,” she proclaimed. Inviting critics to visit the foundation’s projects first-hand, she emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the organization’s mission.
Reflecting on her personal journey, Mrs. Weah shared the motivations behind her commitment to helping Liberia’s underprivileged children. “I don’t have to be born in Liberia to love Liberia,” she said, recounting the loss of her father at a young age and the profound impact it had on her life. “I closed my ears to the noise and chose to give people hope. This City of Hope is a dream that came from persistence.”
Amidst her emotional address, she expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support from her husband, former President George Weah. “Every trip he made, he brought something back to help me keep going,” she added, highlighting their shared commitment to uplifting the nation’s youth.
The graduation ceremony saw students who are largely orphans graduating from the academy’s first grade, their faces illuminating with pride as they received their certificates. The event featured vibrant musical performances, traditional dance, and joyous celebrations that underscored the resilience and spirit of the children.
Among the distinguished guests were former President George Weah, Senator Nathaniel McGill, Representative Musa Bility, former Maritime Commissioner Eugene Nagbe, and various officials from the Ministry of Gender, highlighting the importance of the event and the collaborative effort to foster education and hope for the next generation.
The City of Hope Academy is a cornerstone of the broader mission of the Clar Hope Foundation, which aims to provide education, healthcare, and empowerment for vulnerable children in Liberia. “We want to create hope for the children of Liberia,” Mrs. Weah reaffirmed passionately, underscoring the organization’s commitment to nurturing the potential of the nation’s youth and building a brighter future for all.
As the celebration wrapped up, the echo of laughter and music was a testament to the hope and promise that the City of Hope Academy represents, not just for its graduates, but for the entire community.
