NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – Former Minister of Public Works, Ruth Coker Collins, has called on women across Liberia to embrace leadership while maintaining strong and stable families.
Speaking at the Relief Society Anniversary Conference in Monrovia, Ms Collins stressed that success in public life should go hand in hand with responsibility at home.
By: Sampson W Weah sampsonwweah7@gmail.com
Addressing the theme, “Being a Supportive Wife in Leadership – Leading with Integrity, Vision, and Service,” she drew on her experience in government to highlight the challenges of balancing public duties with family life.
Ms Collins, who previously served as Minister of Public Works and Rural Development, said leadership begins in the home rather than in public office.
“Leadership does not begin in the office—it begins at home,” she told the audience, adding that integrity must first be practised within the family before it can be demonstrated in public service.
Reflecting on her roles as a wife, mother, and public servant, she acknowledged that balancing these responsibilities is difficult, but achievable. She encouraged women to remain committed to honesty, respect, and responsibility in their homes while pursuing leadership ambitions.
On the issue of vision, Ms Collins urged women to include their families in their journey toward success.
“You cannot succeed alone—you must carry your family along,” she said, noting that personal achievements should strengthen, rather than weaken, family bonds.
She also described service as a responsibility that extends beyond professional duties, emphasising the importance of creating a supportive home environment.
Ms Collins encouraged women to adopt practical strategies such as effective time management, setting priorities, open communication, and relying on trusted support systems.
Reflecting on her time in government, she noted that public service often involves long hours and difficult decisions, but said it remains important to stay present and supportive at home whenever possible.
In her closing remarks, she advised women not to neglect their families in the pursuit of success, while also cautioning against abandoning their ambitions out of fear.
“Balance is not about doing everything perfectly—it is about doing the right thing at the right time,” she said.
The conference brought together women from various backgrounds to reflect on leadership, family, and personal growth, with Ms Collins’ message resonating strongly among participants striving to manage both professional and domestic responsibilities.
