BOMI COUNTY, Liberia – Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority (LPRA) Director General Marlin T. Logan has challenged more than 250 women in Dewein District, Bomi County, to transform vocational skills into sustainable businesses, while backing her message with a donation of L$1 million to support their entrepreneurial ambitions.
Speaking as the keynote speaker at the graduation ceremony of a Quick Impact Skills Training Program, Logan urged the women to take advantage of the knowledge they have acquired and use it as a pathway to financial independence and long-term economic empowerment.
Addressing the graduates, Logan emphasized that success is not determined by where an individual receives training, but by how effectively they apply what they have learned.
“The difference between the woman who succeeds and the woman who fails is not the type of school she attended. It is what she does after leaving school. I want you to go home and start something small,” she said.
Her remarks came as more than 250 women completed training in practical vocational disciplines, including soap making, baking, event decoration, and other income-generating trades. The initiative was sponsored by Bomi County District #3 Representative Hon. Sam P. Jallah as part of efforts to promote economic opportunities for women across the district.
In a gesture that drew applause from participants and community members, Logan announced a donation of L$1 million to help graduates establish small businesses and convert their newly acquired skills into productive enterprises.
The LPRA Director General also commended Representative Jallah for investing in women’s development, describing the training initiative as a meaningful intervention that could create lasting economic benefits for families and communities.
She noted that empowering women with practical skills and startup support remains one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty, strengthen households, and stimulate local economic growth.
The graduates expressed appreciation for the training opportunity and pledged to utilize their skills to improve their livelihoods, support their families, and contribute to the development of their communities.
In recognition of her support and financial contribution, the women bestowed upon Logan the traditional title “Ma Kemah,” meaning “The First to Come.” The honor reflects their appreciation for a leader they say stood with them and provided assistance at a critical moment.
For many of the graduates, the combination of vocational training and startup support represents a new beginning—one that offers the prospect of self-employment, increased income, and greater economic independence.
The program is expected to have a lasting impact in Dewein District by equipping women with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to build businesses and contribute meaningfully to local economic development.
