At the second graduation ceremony of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) in Neewuin Town, River Cess County, Former Public Works Minister Ruth Coker-Collins urged Liberian women to remain determined and unwavering in their quest for business and economic self-sufficiency. The ceremony, held on July 19, 2025, celebrated the achievements of over 1,000 women who completed the program, which was founded by Coker-Collins in May 2023 to empower women in rural areas through access to small-scale financial services.
As Founder and CEO of the Association, Coker-Collins praised the graduates for their dedication to the program, emphasizing that it’s not just about financial empowerment but also about building confidence, unity, and self-reliance among women. The program has equipped these women with the tools to launch, grow, and sustain their businesses, and many are now better prepared to manage and expand their enterprises.
Coker-Collins noted that the initiative has become a beacon of hope and transformation for women and youth in the community, enabling them to build small businesses, support their families, and contribute to the local economy. She emphasized the importance of community transformation, stating, “Together, we can continue to create opportunities and build a better future for all.”
The graduation ceremony brought together beneficiaries, community leaders, local authorities, partners, and supporters to honor the achievements of these remarkable rural women. The event aimed to inspire the graduates as they embark on their journeys toward self-sufficiency, leadership, and economic independence.