Madam Taylor Reflects on Jewel Starfish Foundation’s Legacy -Says It’s Vehicle for Promoting Education on Critical Issues

By Stephen G. Fellajuah

Former Vice President of the Republic, Jewel Howard Taylor, has been reflecting on the role of her brainchild, the Jewel Starfish Foundation (JSF), which she started during her days as First Lady of Liberia.

Speaking to journalist yesterday, Madam Taylor reaffirmed her commitment to the ideals of the organization, and the strong impact it has made up to this day, long before her election as Vice President.

She expressed her determination to revitalize the foundation’s efforts with renewed vigor, including rebranding certain programs to enhance their impact.

The Foundation is planning activities in anticipation of the 25th anniversary in December and Madam Taylor has announced plans for the relaunch of the organization so that it keeps its objectives, including supporting underserved youth.

According to her, the revitalization of JSF focuses on providing educational resources, mentorship, and skills training to empower the next generation and the planned relaunch will comprise a series of events and outreach programs designed to engage local youth and their families.

She said the organization is seeking collaborations with schools, community leaders, and volunteers to enhance the foundation’s initiatives.

Disclosure of JSF relaunch comes following her tenure as Vice President. This initiative coincides with the upcoming International Day of the Girl Child, which aligns closely with the Foundation’s mission which is, amongst other things, to empower young girls and promote gender equality.

During the relaunch week, she said, a key highlight will be the unveiling of the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Manual, originally printed by her during her tenure as Vice President of Liberia.

She informed the media that the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Manual, designed as a teacher’s tool, focuses on health and other critical issues affecting women and girls.

The manual will be officially launched on Wednesday, October 9, at JJ Roberts.

As a women-focused manual, its launch through the Jewel Starfish Foundation (JSF) emphasizes the foundation’s role as a vehicle for promoting awareness and education around these critical issues. The manual aims to provide essential resources and guidance for addressing sexual and gender-based violence in the community.

Following this, on Thursday, October 10, the Jewel Starfish Foundation (JSF) will host two significant events. The first will involve collaboration with the Muslim Congress, fostering dialogue and awareness on women’s issues.

The day will culminate with a community event in Todee, located in rural Montserrado County, aimed at engaging local residents and promoting the foundation’s mission.

On Friday, October 11, 2024, the Jewel Starfish Foundation girls’ team will actively participate in the International Day of the Girl Child, adding that the program will focus on raising awareness about the rights and challenges faced by girls globally.

The event will also feature the upcoming 16 Days of Activism campaign, which will utilize the foundation’s resources to engage women and girls in various counties.

She stressed the significance of her commitment to this work, stating, “My commitment to the work we are doing is very important.”

This initiative aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence and promote empowerment across Liberia.

Dr. Taylor emphasized that the JSF aims to address critical issues facing girls in the community, including education, health, and leadership opportunities. The relaunch marks a renewed commitment to supporting the holistic development of girls and fostering their potential.

The relaunch programs of the Jewel Starfish Foundation (JSF) will include interviews with girls and prominent women from various backgrounds, including representatives from international organizations such as UNFPA and ECOWAS, as well as the Publisher of Women Voices Newspaper.

These discussions aim to highlight the experiences and challenges faced by girls and women, providing a platform for sharing insights and inspiring stories. The foundation seeks to empower participants by fostering connections and encouraging dialogue around gender equality and leadership.

The inclusion of diverse voices underscores the JSF’s commitment to promoting education and empowerment for young girls, aligning with its mission to create impactful change in the community, she added

According to the former VP, the initiative also reflects the JSF’s commitment to empowering women and girls, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge necessary to advocate for their rights and well-being.

“The launch event will serve as an important platform for discussions on SGBV and the steps needed to foster a safer, more equitable environment for all,” Madam Taylor noted.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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