Published: April 30, 2025
BUCHANAN — The Liberia Forest Media Watch (LFMW) on Tuesday hosted a one-day staff retreat in Buchanan aimed at fostering reflection, team building, and strategic direction. The event was supported by the European Union through the French Development Agency.
Held under the theme “Looking Back, Moving Forward Together,” the retreat brought together staff members and facilitators for open discussions on organizational growth, internal challenges, and the future of the institution.
The retreat featured two lead facilitators: Mr. Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, newly appointed chair of LFMW’s board, and Mr. Dayugar Johnson, a leadership and personal development coach.
In his opening remarks, Sengbeh commended the team’s work in investigative journalism and forest governance reporting. He urged staff to strengthen accountability and sustainability within the organization.
“While some may see LFMW as a small team tucked away in a corner of advocacy, we on the board see something much bigger — a global movement rooted in Liberia but reaching the world,” he said. “Your work is changing policies, shaping narratives, and holding power to account. You’re not just reporting impact; you’re living it.”
He encouraged staff to meet deadlines, think long-term, and support one another to enhance overall effectiveness.
Johnson led a session on the Johari Window model, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, feedback, and interpersonal relationships.
“Feedback helps reduce the blind area by uncovering unknown strengths and weaknesses,” he said. “It builds trust and strengthens relationships. Understanding ourselves is the foundation of strong collaboration.”
The daylong retreat included group exercises, team-building activities, and personal reflection, which participants described as a refreshing opportunity to reconnect with their purpose and each other.
Several staff members noted that the retreat brought to light internal challenges while strengthening unity and commitment to LFMW’s mission.
LFMW continues to promote transparency and accountability in Liberia’s natural resource management, and Tuesday’s retreat, officials said, was a step toward deepening that mission through reflection, collaboration, and capacity building.
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