Lifestyle
Empowering Dreams: KDE Disability Africa Foundation Celebrates Second Graduation Ceremony
The KDE Disability Africa Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, celebrated its second graduation ceremony in Monrovia, Liberia, on July 28, 2024. The event marked a significant milestone in the foundation’s mission to provide technical and vocational education to women with disabilities in Liberia.
Sixteen individuals, including four women with physical disabilities, graduated from KDE’s vocational training program in Tailoring and Fashion Design, Soap Production, and Computer Technology. This achievement demonstrates the foundation’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. Since 2021, the foundation has trained over 60 students, providing them with the skills and confidence to succeed in their chosen fields.
The ceremony was attended by Honorable Samuel Dean, Executive Director of the National Commission on Disabilities (NCD) Liberia, who served as the guest speaker and chief fundraiser. Mr. Melvin Harding, National Vice President for Administration, National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NUOD), also attended the ceremony and pledged 10,000 Liberty (equivalent to $50 US dollars).
In his address, Mr. Dean praised the graduates for their courage and determination, saying, “These graduates have demonstrated that they are not dependents, but leaders who have unlocked their potential through technical and vocational education.” Mr. Dean also acknowledged the dedication of the teachers, whose tireless efforts have empowered the students.
Mr. Dean announced an initial contribution of 10,000 Liberty on behalf of the National Commission on Disabilities and himself to support the foundation’s mission. Lydia Essifie, the Manager of KDE Disability Africa Foundation in Liberia, encouraged the graduates to continue learning and never resort to begging. She also highlighted the challenges faced by the foundation, including transportation and accessibility barriers, and called for support to continue providing free education and vocational training to those who need it most.
The graduation was held at International Pentecostal Holiness Church (IPHC – Liberia) where KDE’s training program is located. This location donation was made under the leadership of Rev. Habakkuk Giah, General Overseer, IPHC Liberia.
Founded by Kimma Wreh and Boniface Ihiasota, the KDE Disability Africa Foundation plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals with disabilities in Liberia through education and vocational training, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
On behalf of Diaspora Watch and Excel Magazine International, we proudly celebrate Lady Gladys Afam, a distinguished executive of Excel DMV and Excel Global Media Group USA, on her special day!
May this birthday mark the beginning of an extraordinary year filled with unbridled joy, untamed adventures, and unforgettable memories. May your life be a testament to the power of laughter, love, and wonder.
As a remarkable teacher, master of ceremony, and inspiration to many, we salute your tireless dedication, passion, and impact. Your selflessness and commitment to empowering others have made a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.
The marraige ceremony between Olanrewaju and Mary happened between February 7 and 8, 2025 at Kwankwashe in Suleja axis of Niger State. The event which witnessed the presence of many dignitaries also saw in presence different cultural groups that came to join in the celebrations of love.
The traditional wedding event kicked off the celebrations on February 7th, with both families present. The event had songs, dancing and showcase of love. The couples dorned their Edo and Yoruba at-tires. While the bride Mary Omonokhua is from Edo State, Olanrewaju Oyedeji hails from Osun state. There were sharing of tradtional food, drinks and merriment across quarters.
The reception on February 8, had present former Minister of Communications, Barrister Ade-bayo Shittu, Africa Editor at the Centre for Collaborative Investigative Journalism, Ajibola Aamzat, Abuja Bureau Chief of The Cable Newspaper, Yekeen Akinwale, representative of the Voice of Nigeria Chief Executive Officer, Gidado Shuaib among other personalities .
There were personalities from the SCC Construction company, multimedia organizations among others. The wedding ceremony also saw presence of journalists from British Broadcasting Corporation, AFP, Premium Times, Dataphyte, Code for Africa, Punch Newspaper, Intercontinental News247 among other notable media platforms.
The Northern Operations Bureau Chief of the Excel Magazine International, Alabidun Abdul-Rahman, was also on ground at the occasion. Other personalities included the head of corporate Affairs at the Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Kwara State, Bolaji Aladie .The program also had presence of religious leaders, women groups, socio-cultural associations among others.
Speaking at the occasion, the groom, Olanrewaju Oyedeji, noted that his wife is a special gift from God. “She is my dream come true, love of my youth and my everyday crush. She gives me peace of mind and I am very happy today”.
Speaking also, the bride Mary Omonokhua eulogized her husband. “He is a caring man, hardworking and my heart desire, today is a special day for me”, she noted. At the event, the both families who were well represented expressed gladness at the success of the wedding event.
Different groups offered prayers for the couples, while gifts were also offered. Olanrewaju Oyedeji is an accountant while Mary Omonokhua is also an accountant. “This is a true celebration of love, you can feel it all round, the joy is in the atmosphere and everywhere is electric” an attendee at the wedding noted.
#MaryOla2025 showed that love can be from across tribes and still be beautiful to behold.
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Lady Gladys Afam:A Shining Star in the Diaspora Community
#MaryOla: A Unique Celebration of Love Beyond Borders
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 36
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Revolutionary mRNA Lung Cancer Vaccine Trial Offers New Hope To Thousands
