On May 11, 2023, Alternative Youth Radio (AYR), Liberia’s first youth-focused community radio, celebrated the dedication of its state-of-the-art multimedia complex in Zorzor City, Lofa County. The facility, valued at over $50,000, represents a major milestone for AYR, founded in 2016 by James Papy Kwabo Jr., a 2019 Mandela Washington Fellow.
Since its inception, AYR has trained over 30 rural adolescents in news gathering, program production, and community volunteerism. The new multimedia complex, constructed on AYR’s 1.5 lots of land, features two studios, a conference room, offices, and other essential facilities, providing a modern platform for empowering rural youth through media and capacity building.
A Collective Achievement
The dedication ceremony brought together chiefs, religious leaders, students, and partner organizations, including Internews-Liberia, YMCA Liberia, and the Press Union of Liberia. Kwabo reflected on AYR’s journey from operating in a shipping container with a borrowed FM transmitter to establishing a cutting-edge media centre.
Kwabo personally contributed $11,500 to the project, with additional funding from the Zorlayea Community Bank and donations from individuals and institutions. He also announced plans for a Multimedia School of Journalism and Professional Youth Development Center to expand AYR’s impact on rural youth.
Leadership and Inspiration
Guest speaker Mr. E. Timotheus Kamaboakai of YMCA Liberia praised Kwabo’s visionary leadership and described AYR as a beacon of excellence in rural Liberia. He urged young leaders to harness their creativity and determination to drive meaningful change.
Madam Lien Bach, Chief of Party for the USAID-funded Media Activity project, commended AYR’s rapid growth and significant community impact. She attributed the station’s success to Kwabo’s leadership, his dedicated team, and the trust of the local community.
Looking Ahead
The dedication of AYR’s multimedia complex is a powerful example of community-driven progress. AYR welcomes ongoing support from individuals and organizations to further its mission of empowering rural youth and fostering sustainable development through media, education, and training.
