History of Alternative Youth Radio
Empowering Rural Liberia: The Inspiring Journey of Our Founder, James Papy Kwabo Jr.
Welcome to the story of Alternative Youth Radio (AYR) —a platform born out of resilience, vision, and a commitment to empowering young people in rural Liberia. Founded by James Papy Kwabo Jr., AYR has become a beacon of hope and opportunity for the underserved.
Returning to Lofa and a Life-Changing Accident
In 2005, at the age of 16, James returned to Zorzor, Lofa County, to continue his education at Zorzor Central High School. Just a year later, in 2006, his life took another dramatic turn. While fetching firewood for his grandmother, James suffered a devastating fall that left him paralyzed.
Local hospitals in Zorzor and Phebe Medical were unable to help. With the intervention of a “destiny helper,” Moses Y. Kollie, James was transferred to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia. After months of medical care and unwavering faith, James regained the ability to walk—a miraculous recovery that shaped his outlook on life.
The Early Life of James Papy Kwabo Jr.
James Papy Kwabo Jr. was born and raised in Luyeama Town, Zorzor District, Lofa County, Liberia. Life was far from easy. Raised by a single mother, James faced the harsh realities of poverty from a young age. In 2004, tragedy struck when his mother passed away in Monrovia, leaving him orphaned at just 15 years old.
Determined to continue his education despite his circumstances, James became a street vendor, selling small items to survive and stay in school.
The Birth of Alternative Youth Radio
James’s experiences of hardship and recovery fueled a powerful vision. He understood the struggles faced by young people in rural Liberia—the lack of opportunities, the absence of platforms to amplify their voices, and the need for mentorship and empowerment.
In 2016, James founded Alternative Youth Radio (AYR) in Zorzor, Lofa County. Starting from a borrowed shipping container, AYR was built on the dream of empowering young people, providing access to information, and fostering community development.
From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition
AYR’s early days were filled with challenges, including frequent power outages, limited funding, and a lack of resources. However, James’s determination and the support of the local community, including the Kalifalah Dulleh community, enabled AYR to grow into a fully operational radio station.
Today, AYR broadcasts 24/7 to thousands of listeners and has become a hub for youth engagement, mentorship, and skills development. In August 2024, James’s transformative work through AYR was nationally recognized when he won the National MTN MoMo Heroes of Change Award, a prestigious honor celebrating individuals making extraordinary contributions to their communities.
AYR’s Milestones and Impact
The Legacy of James Papy Kwabo Jr.
James’s journey from an orphaned street seller to a community leader is a story of perseverance and purpose. Through AYR, he has given a voice to the voiceless, empowered the marginalized, and inspired a generation of young leaders.
Alternative Youth Radio is more than a station—it is a movement, a symbol of hope, and a testament to the transformative power of resilience and community.
Join Us
Be part of our journey to transform rural Liberia. Together, we can create more opportunities, empower more young people, and continue building a brighter future.
Please support our work by donating or contributing to our programs and workforce.