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On Thursday, August 21, 2025, the Anglican Diocese of Bo hosted a powerful One-Day Interactive Empowerment Session in partnership with Young Women for Change (YWfC)and the Women’s Union of the Diocese, bringing together 70 young women for a day of teaching, dialogue, and inspiration under the banner of faith, dignity, and leadership.

The event took place at the historic St. Paul’s Cathedral in Bo, and the session focused on critical topics facing young women today, including sexual purity, setting boundaries, wise decision-making, and the importance of resisting peer pressure and unhealthy influence.

The event was officially opened with a warm welcome and prayer by the Rt. Rev. Solomon Scott-Manga, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Bo. In his remarks, Bishop Scott-Manga emphasized the Church’s commitment to investing in the spiritual, moral, and leadership development of young women.

“This Cathedral stands not only as a house of prayer, but also as a center of empowerment. We are raising daughters of strength, faith, and purpose.” — Rt. Rev. Solomon Scott-Manga

Sexual Purity, Boundaries & Wisdom, delivered by Rev. Dr. Tolbert Thomas Jallah, Jr., Regional Executive Director of the Faith and Justice Network (FJN), the first session offered biblical, practical, and empowering guidance on living a life of sexual integrity and making wise choices grounded in faith.

“Sexual purity is not about shame—it is about strength, self-respect, and protecting the purpose God placed in you.” — Rev. Dr. Tolbert Jallah

Rev. Jallah emphasized the importance of setting emotional, physical, and spiritual boundaries, urging the young women to lead lives anchored in their God-given dignity and identity.

Saying No to Peer Pressure & Unhealthy Influence, in his second presentation, Rev. Jallah addressed the growing pressures faced by youth in a rapidly changing world. He challenged the participants to develop the courage to say “NO” to behaviors, relationships, and influences that threaten their values, future, and wellbeing.

“You don’t have to follow the crowd to find your purpose. True leadership is found in standing firm when others waver.” — Rev. Dr. Tolbert Jallah

Following the two sessions, the young women participated in open discussions, where they shared personal stories, asked bold questions, and reflected on how to apply the teachings in their daily lives. Leaders from both the YWfC and the Women’s Union guided these discussions, fostering an atmosphere of trust, learning, and mutual respect.

Reflections from Participants

“Today I learned that saying NO doesn’t make me weak—it makes me wise.” — Ms. Mariama Konteh., Sierra Leone

“I now understand that my body is sacred, and I must guard it with wisdom and dignity.” — Ms. Freena S. Koikoi., Liberia

“The presence of our church leaders gave me confidence that my growth matters to the church and to God.” — Ms. Tenquiono S. M. Justine, Guinea

With a Shared Commitment to Empower Young Women, the session concluded with closing reflections, prayers, and renewed commitment from both Young Women for Change and the Women’s Union to continue supporting young women’s moral and spiritual development through mentorship, faith-based programs, and leadership training.

We extend heartfelt appreciation to:

• Rt. Rev. Solomon Scott-Manga, for his spiritual leadership and continued support.

• Rt. Rev. Dr. James B. Sellee for standing in solidarity with all who resist violence and work for peace, justice, and freedom, across borders and cultures.

• Rev. Dr. Tolbert Thomas Jallah, Jr., for his rich and impactful presentations.

• The dedicated members of the Women’s Union and Young Women for Change team who helped organize this life-giving session.

This one-day event is part of a broader movement to equip young women with tools for moral leadership, rooted in faith and dignity. It serves as a reminder that transformational leadership begins with self-awareness, discipline, and the courage to choose what is right.

Stay connected with us as we continue building up a generation of women leaders, peacemakers, and value-driven changemakers.