At 17 years old, Micheal Y. Kollie from Lelekpeyah is already making a difference in his community and his life. Orphaned at a young age, Micheal’s future looked bleak. That changed three years ago when he joined the 4-H club at the Mount Zion Rescue Mission school, where he learned innovative agricultural techniques.

Micheal decided to start a backyard garden, applying the methods he learned. His garden soon flourished with tomatoes, peppers, cassava, and potatoes. Micheal’s dedication paid off when he harvested a bountiful crop of tomatoes, earning him four thousand five hundred Liberian dollars. This was more than just income; it was a lifeline.

When asked how he spent the money, Micheal proudly shared that he bought a school uniform, reading books, and a pair of black shoes. He also used a portion of his earnings to help his younger siblings with school materials. Through his hard work, Micheal not only provided for his family but also set a powerful example of what can be achieved with determination and the right support.

Looking ahead, Micheal dreams of studying agriculture at the university level and becoming a field technician. He sees this as a way to give back to his community and continue the cycle of growth and learning that 4-H Liberia has sparked in him.