About James Papay Kwabo Jr.

Life Story & Leadership Journey of a Liberian Educator, Media Innovator, and Community Advocate

James Papay Kwabo Jr.
Community Leader

From Rural Liberia to National Leadership

"Leadership is defined by service, integrity, and the courage to act on behalf of others."

James Papay Kwabo Jr. was born on November 26, 1989, in Luyeama Town, Zorzor District, Lofa County, Liberia. Raised in rural Liberia, he experienced both the warmth of his community and the challenges faced by many underserved populations.

Orphaned at a young age and surviving a serious accident at 17, James developed resilience and a lifelong commitment to uplifting others—values that continue to guide his work today. These formative experiences shaped his people-centered leadership approach and his belief that sustainable national development must begin at the community level.

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Education & Professional Formation

Building the foundation for leadership and community impact

Master's in Public Sector Management (2022)

Cuttington University School of Graduate and Professional Studies

Advanced studies in public administration, policy development, and ethical governance, equipping him with the tools to drive systemic change and institutional reform.

Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication (2015)

United Methodist University - Magna Cum Laude

Graduated with highest honors, demonstrating exceptional academic excellence and dedication to the field of communication and media.

Lecturer at Lofa County University

Today, James serves as a Lecturer at Lofa County University, mentoring the next generation of leaders in communication, civic engagement, and ethical leadership. His teaching philosophy emphasizes practical application, critical thinking, and community-centered problem-solving.

Alternative Youth Radio
Founder, AYR

Founder, Alternative Youth Radio (AYR)

"What began in a shipping container has grown into a hub for youth empowerment and civic engagement."

In 2016, James founded Alternative Youth Radio (AYR), Liberia’s first youth-led community media initiative in rural Lofa County.

Under his visionary leadership, AYR has evolved from a modest beginning into a thriving center for community empowerment, civic dialogue, and social transformation—serving as a trusted voice for young people and marginalized communities.

100+

Young people provided with employment and skills training opportunities

Community Voice

Amplified voices and expanded access to information across Lofa County

Civic Dialogue

Platform for peacebuilding, civic engagement, and local innovation

Impact Hub

Expanded into a multimedia center combining journalism and leadership development

International Exposure & Leadership Recognition

Representing Liberia on global platforms

2008
Best Student Council President

Educational Leadership recognition for outstanding leadership exhibited as the third Student Council President at the Zorzor Central High School.

2013
Best Students Advocate

Recognized by the graduating class at the United Methodist University for outstanding and non-violent advocacy initiatives at the University.

2015
Magna Cum Laude Graduate

Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication with emphasis in Broadcasting - recognized for academic excellence and outstanding performance at United Methodist University.

2016
Founded Alternative Youth Radio

Established Liberia's first youth-led community media initiative in rural Lofa County, creating a platform for youth empowerment and civic engagement.

2017
Liberia-Colombia Youth Exchange Program

Bogotá, Colombia - Engaged in youth leadership, civic participation, and cross-cultural collaboration through international exchange.

2019
Mandela Washington Fellowship (YALI)

Young African Leaders Initiative, U.S. Department of State - Boise State University, USA. Specialized training in civic leadership, ethical governance, and public sector management.

2022
Master's in Public Sector Management

Completed graduate studies at Cuttington University School of Graduate and Professional Studies, advancing expertise in governance and policy development.

2024
MTN MoMo Hero of Change Award

National recognition for youth empowerment, community development, and media innovation - honoring outstanding contributions to Liberian society.

2025
Project 29 - Not Too Young To Lead

Launched the Not Too Young To Lead Movement, mobilizing youth for civic participation and inclusive governance toward the 2029 elections.

2025
Project 29 - Not Too Young To Lead

Launched the Not Too Young To Lead Movement, mobilizing youth for civic participation and inclusive governance toward the 2029 elections.

Moments in Leadership

Capturing the journey through powerful images

University Lecture
Teaching at University

Educating future leaders

YALI Fellowship
YALI Fellowship 2019

Mandela Washington Fellowship experience

Community Work
Community Engagement

Working directly with rural communities

Youth Training
Youth Empowerment

Training young leaders in Lofa County

Alternative Youth Radio
Alternative Youth Radio

Amplifying voices through media

MTN Award
MTN Hero of Change 2024

Recognition for community impact

Vision and Values

Building a more just and inclusive Liberia

Youth Empowerment

Youth, especially those in rural Liberia, are empowered with skills, platforms, and leadership opportunities to drive positive change.

Equitable Access

Rural communities have equitable access to information, education, and development opportunities without geographic barriers.

Institutional Accountability

Institutions are accountable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all citizens, especially the marginalized.

Freedom of Expression

Civic participation and freedom of expression are encouraged, protected, and celebrated as fundamental rights.

James with Community

Ongoing Commitment

"Every young person empowered, every community strengthened, is a step toward a more just and inclusive Liberia."

James continues to bridge local realities with international best practices, creating sustainable change through education, media, advocacy, and leadership development.

His work reflects a deep commitment to community-driven solutions, ethical leadership, and scalable impact. Whether in the classroom at Lofa County University, behind the microphone at Alternative Youth Radio, or mobilizing communities through Project 29, James embodies servant leadership that prioritizes the voices and needs of those often left behind.

Through strategic partnerships, innovative programming, and unwavering dedication, he continues to demonstrate that lasting change begins at the grassroots level and that every individual has the potential to contribute to national progress.

Join the Movement for Change

Together, we can build a more inclusive, prosperous, and resilient Liberia. Your voice matters.

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