By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
MONROVIA – ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) is celebrating a major milestone in its leadership development efforts, as four of its top Liberian professionals have successfully completed the prestigious LEAD CONNECT High Impact Leadership Program at Columbia Business School Executive Education in New York City.
The distinguished graduates are: Rebecca Kwabo-Buegar, Head of Human Resources and Development, Jallah Selmah, General Manager, Mine, Garmondyu Crusoe, General Manager, Port and Mulbah Gbozee, Rail Maintenance Manager
Their graduation from the globally recognized program underscores AML’s commitment to nurturing local talent and preparing Liberians for senior leadership roles within the company and the broader industry.
In a statement on its official Facebook page, AML noted, “At ArcelorMittal Liberia, we believe our people are our greatest asset, and we are proud to invest in their growth.” The company emphasized that the achievement of these professionals reflects its ongoing efforts to build a strong leadership pipeline and empower Liberians with global-standard skills to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact.
Inside the Columbia Leadership Program
Columbia Business School’s LEAD CONNECT program is renowned for equipping senior leaders with the tools to thrive in complex, fast-paced environments. Participants from around the world engage in intensive sessions focused on areas such as strategic leadership, emotional intelligence, influencing without authority, and aligning strategy with execution.
The program features hands-on learning through simulations, group projects, individual coaching, and classroom engagement with esteemed Columbia faculty and industry leaders.
For AML’s Liberian leaders, this experience offered not only international exposure but also advanced insight into transformational leadership—skills they are now poised to apply to key areas like mining operations, infrastructure, workforce development, and community engagement.
Investing in the Future of Liberian Talent
ArcelorMittal Liberia has long prioritized education and human capacity development as integral to its operations. Through initiatives such as the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy (AMLTA) in Yekepa, the company has trained hundreds of young Liberians in vital technical fields, including mechanical, electrical, and mining trades—many of whom have gone on to secure permanent roles within AML.
The company’s commitment extends beyond vocational training. AML has awarded over 99 international scholarships to Liberians pursuing studies in mining engineering, metallurgy, and business administration in countries such as China, South Africa, and the UK—efforts aimed at reducing reliance on expatriate expertise in key sectors.
In addition, AML supports a comprehensive K–12 school in Yekepa, offering quality education to employees’ children and those from nearby communities. The school features modern science labs, libraries, and experienced educators, all fully funded by the company.
Setting a National Example
The successful completion of the Columbia program by Kwabo-Buegar, Selmah, Crusoe, and Gbozee represents more than personal achievement—it stands as a national example of what corporate commitment to talent development can accomplish.
As AML advances its Phase II expansion—which includes significant investments in ore processing, railway upgrades, and port infrastructure—strong local leadership will be essential to ensuring inclusive growth and long-term sustainability.
Through programs like these, ArcelorMittal Liberia is not just building a business—it is helping to shape the future of Liberia’s professional landscape.
