Better Understanding for a Better Liberia (BUBL) is a project created by Musa A. Kabbah (YES 2015-2016, Liberia, hosted by YFU in Alpena City, MI) to inspire Liberians to take action in their communities and to become better leaders. The project aims to promote peace, harmony and understanding through interfaith and educational dialogues in Liberia. Musa was able secure a partnership with the U.S. Embassy to host two events per month for six months. The project officially started in January 2018. Government officials, religious leaders, teachers, entertainers, and successful business men and women have served as guest speakers. We asked Musa some questions about his experience with organizing and implementing this impactful, continuous event in Liberia. Read the interview below to find out what he had to say! 

What inspired you to start BUBL? 

I have always wanted to contribute to lasting peace in Liberia and I knew that the first step in achieving that goal was to take initiatives by engaging the communities. I was inspired by the Better Understanding for a Better World conference that was held in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. That one week we spent in Baltimore gave me a big boost in confidence.

How did you secure a partnership with the U.S. Embassy?

I reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia and asked to meet with the Public Affairs Officer in hopes of using the U.S. Embassy headquarters to host sessions. Afterwards, I emailed my pitch with some pictures from my past activities which led to me meeting with the Public Affairs Officer. After the meeting, my project was approved to be executed over a period of 6 months. 

How did your YES exchange year in the U.S. help you implement this project?

My YES exchange experience is and has been an essential part of all of my activities. The spirit of taking initiative, volunteerism, and team work has played a significant role in implementing my project. I am using my exchange skills to build a team, organize and plan events, build partnerships, and work with communities. 

On January 10, 2018, BUBL hosted its first event at the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia, engaging a total of 38 participants. A guest speaker from the Muslim community, Sheikh Mohammed Konneh, and a guest speaker from the Christian community, Pastor Abel P. Andrews, facilitated discussions relating to diversity and tolerance.