From ‘Gbehzohn’ to Boiler Making Pro -Rufina Toba’s Incredible Rise with ArcelorMittal Liberia

MONROVIA – ArcelorMittal Liberia continues to cut the corner, to demonstrate genuine and responsible corporate social responsibility not only for host communities but those who find their way into its employ. Of particular interest is the company’s seemingly unmatched human resource transformation program – changing the lives of ordinary people for the better. The latest beneficiary is Ruthefena M. Togbah, whose exciting human interest story is told. Wremongar B Joe, II tells the story.      

When Ruthfena M. Togbah graduated from the Paso SD High School in Picano in 2018, she never imagined that a simple flyer could change her life. It was an announcement about the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy, and it opened the door to a future she hadn’t seen coming.

Today, Ruthfena is not just a proud graduate of the Academy. She’s one of its youngest female trainers, setting a bold example for women who aspire to thrive in technical fields across Liberia.

Her journey started the moment she spotted the vacancy notice. Driven by curiosity and a desire to pursue something hands-on, she applied.

“I applied and I was found competent. I took the first two tests and passed, then returned for eight more. I passed those too and was invited for an interview,” she recalled. “They told me to report to Yekepa on June 7, but I arrived a day earlier. That’s how committed I was.”

After completing the Academy’s intensive three-year program, she walked away with more than just a certificate. She had the skills, the confidence, and a new sense of purpose.

But Ruthfena story didn’t end there. One day after graduation, her former instructor reached out with an unexpected offer: to return as a trainer.

“At first, I wasn’t interested in being a trainer,” she admitted. “But then I thought about the impact it could have. I realized I could be an example for other females to follow. That’s what changed my mind.”

Since April 1, 2025, Rufina has been officially employed by ArcelorMittal as a Boiler Making Trainer. And though she’s only been in the role for a few months, she’s already making a mark.

“I don’t see it as just a job,” she said. “I see it as an opportunity to make a difference, to inspire other girls to believe they too can lead in technical spaces.”

Being in her 20s and relatively new to teaching hasn’t been a barrier. Her students respect her and respond positively to her guidance.

She added: “They’re always willing to work with me. They’ve never talked back or challenged me. They show up ready to learn, and that’s what motivates me every day.”

In a field that has long been dominated by men, Rufina’s presence is reshaping perceptions.

“Before 2017 or 2018, you wouldn’t see any female trainer among those teaching us. Now, I’m one of them and I’m proud of that.”

She believes the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy is playing a vital role in Liberia’s development by building skills and creating real opportunities, especially for young women.

“ArcelorMittal Liberia is the only technical school I know that’s free, advanced, and fair. There’s no bribery, and they give women first preference. That’s something I respect deeply. They are doing well for us as females. I want to say thank you and encourage other women to apply.”

Asked about the difference between getting a university degree and pursuing technical skills, Rufina offered a candid perspective.

“In Liberia today, getting a degree doesn’t guarantee you a job. You can have all the papers and still be unemployed, or even asked to pay or do things you’re not comfortable with just to get hired. But with technical skills, people respect you. They see what you can do, and they give you a chance to prove yourself.”

Ruthfena message to young women is clear.

“I want every young woman out there to take advantage of this opportunity. If I did it, they can too,” she said gladly.

Her story is a testament to what’s possible when young people are empowered with the right skills and support.

A family member said, “Thanks to ArcelorMittal Liberia, Ruthfena Togbah isn’t just building a career she’s building a legacy.”