Published: July 29, 2025
MONROVIA, Liberia – Former Deputy Education Minister Ambassador Latim Dathong and his family brought smiles, inspiration, and renewed hope to more than 300 children during a special Independence Day celebration in Paynesville, blending gifts and games with a powerful message of resilience and ambition.
The event, held at the Shatim Event Center (SEC), marked Liberia’s 178th Independence Day and featured the distribution of school supplies, meals, toys, and snacks to children from various communities in and around Paynesville.
Dathong, joined by his wife, Madam Shameem Mutesi Dathong, and their children, used the occasion to challenge the youth never to let their current circumstances define their future.
“If you are a young person and present here today, my only message to you is do not stop dreaming, do not stop believing, and never ever stop pursuing whatever goal you have,” Dathong told the gathering. “Your current life condition will never determine your future.”
Celebrating With Purpose
The colorful program opened with two quiz matches in Bible knowledge and Liberian history. Winning teams received medals, trophies, and dozens of copybooks and school supplies. Organizers also provided cooked meals, drinks, and coordinated children’s games.
Dathong credited his wife’s compassion and active involvement, thanking her and the planning team for their efforts. He also commended Rashell Scott, founder of the White House Foundation, for her collaboration and leadership.
“At your age, you continue to inspire me,” he told her. “Most of your peers would love to focus on shopping and weekends. But your heart led you to a place where you give back to humanity. That speaks volumes about your kindness and determination.”
Dathong said Rashell’s commitment at such a young age signals her potential to become a national leader in Liberia.
A Message of Hope and Faith
In a passionate address to the children, many of whom came from orphanages and impoverished homes, Dathong reminded them of the true meaning of Independence Day—freedom and the ability to dream.
“Let today be a reminder that the plans God has for you—nothing can stop you from achieving them,” he said. “Some of you will become doctors, entertainers, teachers, politicians, and more.”
He emphasized that the country’s future rests in the hands of young people, urging them to ask hard questions, stay curious, and pursue growth.
“Liberia needs your hard questions, your curiosity, and your collective efforts to prosper,” he said. “What you do today will be a testament to the contributions of your parents and others who came before you.”
Drawing Inspiration From Liberia’s Leaders
Dathong reflected on the humble beginnings of former Presidents George Weah, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, and current President Joseph Boakai, encouraging the children to find motivation in their stories.
“Many of you sit in a better position than George Weah and Joseph Boakai were at your age,” he said. “These are men who came from the slums and defied the odds to rise to the presidency.”
He led the children in a pledge to believe in themselves and strive to become great leaders of tomorrow.
With more than two decades of experience in Liberia’s education sector—both at home and abroad—Dathong reaffirmed his commitment to empowering young people through mentorship and scholarships.
“Where I’ve reached in life, I have dedicated my time, commitment, and focus to helping young people, mainly the underprivileged,” he said. “That’s what makes me happy—and it comes from the deepest part of my heart with the support of my wife, without any political motive.”
He pledged continued support for Liberian youth, helping them access both local and international scholarships to realize their full potential.
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