BUCHANAN, GRAND BASSA COUNTY – With a renewed commitment to growth, accountability, and purpose, the Liberia Forest Media Watch (LFMW) convened a one-day reflection and team-building retreat in Buchanan City on April 23, 2025. The retreat was supported by the European Union through the French Development Agency.
The event brought together staff and facilitators for an open and inspiring dialogue on the organization’s progress, challenges, and strategic direction.
The retreat, held under the theme “Looking Back, Moving Forward Together,” served as a platform for candid discussions on internal growth, operational shortcomings, and the way forward. It featured two key facilitators. The newly appointed LFMW Board Chair, Mr. Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, and leadership trainer Mr. Dayugar Johnson.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Sengbeh delivered a compelling address that both celebrated the team’s efforts and challenged them to elevate their performance and vision.
“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, and your work is changing policies, shaping narratives, and holding power to account. You’re not just reporting impact, you’re living it” he said.
Mr. Sengbeh commended the team’s storytelling and investigative work that has contributed to real change in forest governance and policy reform. However, he emphasized the importance of sustainability, urging staff to complete tasks on time, hold each other accountable, and think long-term.
Mr. Dayugar Johnson complemented the session with a thought-provoking presentation on the Johari Window model, focusing on feedback, self-awareness, and personal growth.
“Feedback helps reduce the blind area by uncovering unknown strengths and weaknesses. It builds trust and strengthens relationships.
Understanding ourselves is the foundation of strong collaboration”. He noted.
The retreat was not only introspective but interactive. Staff engaged in group exercises, reflective chats, and team-building activities that brought to light organizational gaps while strengthening interpersonal relationships. Several conversations turned heartfelt, fostering a deeper sense of unity, vulnerability, and shared commitment to the organization’s mission.
Participants described the experience as a refreshing opportunity to reconnect with their purpose and with one another.
With support from the European Union, LFMW continues its role in promoting transparency and accountability in Liberia’s natural resource management, and the Buchanan retreat stands as a defining moment, an investment in people, purpose, and progress.
