By: Gabriel M C Parker
BOMI COUNTY – The United Methodist Church (UMC), through its At-Risk Youth Program, has launched a transformative initiative aimed at empowering vulnerable young women in Bomi County.
The initiative, titled “Star Girl”, was officially launched over the weekend in Tubmanburg, bringing together local officials, community members, and stakeholders committed to addressing the challenges faced by marginalized young women in the county.
Giving an overview of the program, Rev. Caleb Dunbar, Program Director of the At-Risk Youth Program, described Star Girl as a movement rather than just a project.
“This initiative is more than an organization — it’s a revolution aimed at restoring dignity and fostering empowerment among young women who have been trapped in cycles of drug abuse, exploitation, and hopelessness,”
— Rev. Caleb Dunbar
He emphasized that the program seeks to provide holistic support to young women affected by substance abuse, sexual exploitation, and other forms of social vulnerability.
Through a combination of detoxification, psychological counseling, mentorship, and vocational training, the initiative aims to foster both mental and economic independence.
Speaking on behalf of Bomi County’s leadership, Development Officer Alfred Zinnah praised the UMC for what he called a “life-changing and timely intervention.”
“This program is not just about rehabilitating disadvantaged youth,” Zinnah said. “It’s about equipping them with the skills and confidence to become useful and productive citizens of Liberia.”
He pledged the full support of the county’s leadership to ensure the success and sustainability of Star Girl, and urged young women across Bomi to seize the opportunity.
Several young women who attended the launch expressed their gratitude to the UMC, calling the initiative a beacon of hope in their lives. Many pledged to actively engage in the program’s activities.
The launch event featured motivational messages, personal testimonies, and a call to action for communities to rally behind the effort to support at-risk young women.
With the successful launch of Star Girl, the United Methodist Church has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing youth vulnerabilities and creating inclusive, supportive spaces where all young people — especially girls — can thrive.
Program leaders say they will continue to collaborate with local authorities, partners, and communities to expand the initiative’s impact and ensure that no girl is left behind.
