by Al-Jerome Anastas. Chede Sr.
Washington DC, November 14, 2024. The chilly weather and grey clouds hung over Colorado Avenue as the new leadership of the Liberian Community Association (LCA) in the Washington D.C. Metro area made their way to the Liberian Embassy. This day marked a symbolic meeting between the LCA's freshly elected leaders and His Excellency, Ambassador Jeff Gongoer Dowana Sr. The LCA delegation was a picture of professionalism, led by the Chairman of the Board of Directors Felix Wilson. Alongside him was esteemed board co-chair Esther Richards , ready to embark on this promising chapter together.
Upon entering the corridors of the Embassy, there was a palpable air of excitement. Chairman Wilson, with a dignified demeanor, began the meeting with his opening remarks. He warmly praised Ambassador Dowana for his effective stewardship of the Embassy, setting a harmonious tone for the meeting. He then introduced the new president of the LCA, Mr. Sebastian Teclar, alongside the energetic Secretary General, Wynitta Sanyeneh and LCA'S Representative to the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas(ULAA), Sangai Kamara.
President Teclar, a man noted for his dynamic leadership style, addressed the gathering with enthusiasm. He expressed his desire for more vibrant and collaborative relations between the LCA and the Liberian Embassy. He assured Ambassador Dowana of the community's commitment to continue fostering a robust partnership, drawing nods of agreement from the audience.
The formalities were gently interspersed with moments of cheers and laughters. Representative Sangai Kamara had come bearing sweet gifts, a collection of delicacies intended to build bridges through small gestures of kindness. Both the Ambassador and his diligent staff received the tokens warmly, a tangible precursor to the goodwill expected from this renewed partnership.
Ambassador Dowana, respected for his diplomatic acumen, reciprocated the gesture with warmth and eloquence. He thanked the LCA for their cordial visit and acknowledged the history of smooth relations between the Embassy and the community, particularly highlighted by their cooperation during the July 26 Independence celebrations. The Ambassador fondly recalled the rewarding experiences shared with the former leadership and optimistically challenged the new team to further strengthen the bonds.
Also present were distinguished Embassy officials, including Deputy Chief of Mission Isaac C. Yeah Sr., Minister Counselor for Press and Public Affairs Al-Jerome Anastas Chede Sr.,and Third Secretaries,
Joetta Addy, and Isaac Zally, all ready to support the evolving partnership.
The gathering concluded on a high note, with smiles exchanged and promises to continue nurturing their shared legacy. As they departed, the LCA delegation left with a sense of purpose, set to write the next chapter of their contribution to the Liberian community in Washington D.C., emboldened by the encouraging words of their Ambassador.