By Vaye Lepolu
The 14th edition of the Golden Image Award ceremony took place on July 18, 2024, with the theme “Building Our Nation on Reconciliation,” honoring professional individuals for their outstanding contributions. The event, held at the Monrovia City Corporation, highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration in advancing Liberia’s development.
Speaker J. Fonati Koffa of the Liberia National Legislature emphasized the significance of reconciliation in addressing the challenges facing the nation. He called for a shift towards a more inclusive and cohesive approach to governance, urging leaders to work together for the common good of Liberia. Speaker Koffa stressed the need for genuine reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of setting aside personal and party interests for the greater benefit of the country.
Vice President Jeremiah Koung echoed the sentiments of unity and cooperation, emphasizing the need for all Liberians to come together for the growth and development of the nation. He emphasized the importance of focusing on national interests over political divisions, highlighting the potential for progress through collective effort and collaboration.
Madam Juli Endee, the Chief Executive Director of Crusaders for Peace and visionary of the Golden Image Award, emphasized the role of the award ceremony in promoting national unity and reconciliation. She highlighted the significance of the theme “Building Our Nation Through Reconciliation” in fostering a sense of togetherness and shared purpose among Liberians.
The Golden Image Award, crafted by local Liberian artists, symbolizes gratitude and recognition for individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to humanity. The event, now in its 14th year, has become a crucial part of Liberia’s annual Independence Day celebrations, providing a platform to honor those who have dedicated their time and resources to various aspects of development, investment, democracy, peace, and art.
Madam Endee expressed appreciation to the Liberian government, sponsors, supporters, and past recipients for their continued support of the Golden Image Award. She highlighted the importance of celebrating and acknowledging the efforts of individuals and organizations that have positively impacted society, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration in working towards a better future for Liberia.
As the Golden Image Award continues to inspire national unity and service through its recognition of excellence and contributions, it serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to build a stronger and more united Liberia. The event’s focus on reconciliation underscores the importance of coming together as a nation to overcome challenges and achieve shared goals for the benefit of all Liberians.
Historicity:
The Image of the Golden Image Award (GIA) is Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first female democratically elected Head of State. The Award was dedicated in Madam Sirleaf’s honor for her bold and courageous role in ensuring that the rights of women are respected on the continent of Africa and the World at large. Undoubtedly, Former President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is an international icon, recognized as a leading promoter of Gender Equality, Democracy and the rule of law. Madam Sirleaf is a 2011-Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
The immediate past Convener of the award is former President George Manneh Weah, 2018 – 2023. Respectfully Ambassador Weah is recognized as a true Legend, a leading promoter of Peace, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, the only African to win the World Best Footballer and the Ballon d’Or. He also a Golden Image Award recipient, picking up the prize in 2011.
Liberia’s Culture Ambassador and Traditional Queen, Juli Endee is the Visionary/Founder and Chief Event Planner of the Golden Image Award. Founder and Executive Director of the Liberia Crusaders for Peace, Ambassador Endee has dedicated her life to advocacy for Peace, healthy life and women’s rights, using her expertise in social mobilization, community engagement and development communication to bring about behavioral change in the society.
