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'''Clar Marie Duncan Weah''' ([[née]] '''Duncan;''' born March 11, 1965) is a businesswoman, philanthropist, advocate and the current First Lady of the [[Liberia|Republic of Liberia]] . She is the wife of.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2content.php?sub=121&related=19&third=121&pg=sp|title=The Executive Mansion|website=www.emansion.gov.lr|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>[[George Weah|George Manneh Weah]], the 24th President of the Republic of Liberia, who has been in office since 2018. Weah established the Clar Hope Foundation in 2018, which aims to address and alleviate the challenges faced by the underprivileged and often marginalised people in the Liberian society. Aside from working to respond to the adversities faced by the elderly, orphaned and disabled; she has availed herself as an advocate and guardian of women and girls who have been victims of rape or sexual abuse. Her concern for the protection and empowerment of women led to the launch of the “She’s You Movement<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nanews.net/news/president-weahs-speech-at-launch-of-shes-you-movement/|title=WEAH’S SPEECH AT LAUNCH OF ‘SHE’S YOU’ MOVEMENT|last=|first=|date=|website=|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=}}</ref>”, her flagship program which aims to improve the lives of women in Liberia.
'''Clar Marie Duncan Weah''' ([[née]] '''Duncan;''' born March 11, 1965) is a businesswoman, philanthropist, advocate and the current First Lady of the [[Liberia|Republic of Liberia]] . She is the wife of.[[George Weah|George Manneh Weah]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2content.php?sub=121&related=19&third=121&pg=sp|title=The Executive Mansion|website=www.emansion.gov.lr|access-date=2020-02-25}}</ref>, the 25th President of the Republic of Liberia, who has been in office as of 2018. She established the Clar Hope Foundation in 2018, which aims to address and alleviate the challenges faced by the underprivileged and often marginalised people in the Liberian society. Aside from working to respond to the adversities faced by the elderly, orphaned and disabled; she also advocates for women rigts in particular for victims of rape or sexual abuse. Through various thematic programs for the protection and empowerment of women the “She’s You Movement<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nanews.net/news/president-weahs-speech-at-launch-of-shes-you-movement/|title=WEAH’S SPEECH AT LAUNCH OF ‘SHE’S YOU’ MOVEMENT|last=|first=|date=|website=|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=}}</ref>” was launched, a program which aims to improve the lives of women in Liberia.


==Biography==
==Biography==
Line 26: Line 26:
She was [http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Liberias_new_First_Lady_is_Jamaican_?profile=1 born]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Liberias_new_First_Lady_is_Jamaican_?profile=1|title=Jamaica Observer Limited|website=Jamaica Observer|access-date=2020-02-24}}</ref> in [[Kingston, Jamaica]], the youngest of seven children. In her early youth, she migrated along with her family, to the [[United States|United States of America]]. In the United States, Weah attended the University of New York and earned her nursing license and a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. She launched her career working as a customer service representative in New York at both [[Citibank]] and [[Chase Bank|Chase Manhattan Bank]], during which time she in conjunction managed small businesses.
She was [http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Liberias_new_First_Lady_is_Jamaican_?profile=1 born]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Liberias_new_First_Lady_is_Jamaican_?profile=1|title=Jamaica Observer Limited|website=Jamaica Observer|access-date=2020-02-24}}</ref> in [[Kingston, Jamaica]], the youngest of seven children. In her early youth, she migrated along with her family, to the [[United States|United States of America]]. In the United States, Weah attended the University of New York and earned her nursing license and a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. She launched her career working as a customer service representative in New York at both [[Citibank]] and [[Chase Bank|Chase Manhattan Bank]], during which time she in conjunction managed small businesses.


Weah moved back to Jamaica to pursue her nursing career and dream to offer quality healthcare services to the vulnerable in her community. During her nursing career, she worked at a local hospital, where she led programs caring for hundreds of underprivileged children, including those in children homes who are an often-missed cohort. In addition, she spent her spare time assisting as a youth soccer coach, with the intention of fostering youth and community engagement, along with keeping children off the streets.
She moved back to Jamaica to pursue her nursing career. During her nursing career, she worked at a local hospital, where she led programs for underprivileged children, including those in children homes.


===Marriage and Children===
===Marriage and Children===
She met George Weah, at that time a soccer star, in the early 90's at Chase Manhattan Bank in New York, where she was serving as a customer service representative. They married on June 26<sup>th</sup>, 1993, and have three children- Martha Weah, [[George Weah Jr.|George Jr]] Weah and [[Timothy Weah]]. Their sons are international football players.
She met George Weah, at that time a soccer star, in the early 90's at Chase Manhattan's Bank in New York, where she was serving as a customer service representative<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/come-lets-meet-first-lady-liberia-mrs-clar-marie-duncan-tali-jr-|title=COME LET’S MEET THE FIRST LADY OF LIBERIA: Mrs. CLAR MARIE DUNCAN WEAH|website=www.linkedin.com|language=en|access-date=2020-02-25}}</ref>. They married on June 26<sup>th</sup>, 1993<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ghanacelebrities.com/2019/06/26/photos-liberian-president-george-weah-celebrates-27th-marriage-anniversary-with-wife-clar-weah/|title=PHOTOS: Liberian President, George Weah Celebrates 27th Marriage Anniversary With Wife, Clar Weah|date=2019-06-26|website=GhanaCelebrities.Com|language=en-US|access-date=2020-02-25}}</ref>, and have three children- Martha Weah, [[George Weah Jr.|George Jr]] Weah and [[Timothy Weah]]. Their sons are international football players.


== Office of the First Lady 2018- Present ==
== Office of the First Lady 2018- Present ==
Following the election of her husband as the 24<sup>th</sup> President of Liberia, Weah embraced her new role as the [https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2content_list_sub.php?main=47&related=47&pg=mp First Lady of the Republic of Liberia,]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2content_list_sub.php?main=47&related=47&pg=mp|title=The Executive Mansion|website=www.emansion.gov.lr|access-date=2020-02-24}}</ref> devoting her time and services to programs and social projects aimed at improving the lives of deprived people in Liberia. These programs encompass services targeting the alleviation of circumstances for orphans, street children, the elderly, women and girls; especially those in rural settings, among other often marginalised members of the Liberian society. The objectives outlined in her programs are:
Following the election of her husband as the [https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2content.php?sub=121&related=19&third=121&pg=sp 25<sup>th</sup> President of Liberia]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2content.php?sub=121&related=19&third=121&pg=sp|title=The Executive Mansion|website=www.emansion.gov.lr|access-date=2020-02-25}}</ref>, Clar started her role as the [https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2content_list_sub.php?main=47&related=47&pg=mp First Lady of the Republic of Liberia,]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2content_list_sub.php?main=47&related=47&pg=mp|title=The Executive Mansion|website=www.emansion.gov.lr|access-date=2020-02-24}}</ref> developing programs and social projects that encompass services targeting the assistance for orphans, street children, the elderly, women and girls; with a focus on rural settings. The objectives outlined in the social programs are:


*        To improve the living and working conditions of both urban and rural women
*        To improve the living and working conditions of both urban and rural women
*        To promote the financial independence of rural women through agriculture
*        To promote the financial independence of rural women through agriculture
*        To rehabilitate, educate and train youth in the streets
*        To rehabilitate, educate and train urban youths.
*        To empower the women of Liberia and be a resilient advocate for the voiceless and unheard.
*        To empower the women of Liberia .


== Humanitarian Activism ==
== Humanitarian Activism ==
Liberia is a post-war success story that continues to strive on steady paths of peace, reconstruction, and development. Furthermore, despite sixteen years of uninterrupted peace since the end of the brutal civil crisis in 2003, there persists a substantial social injustice on women, girls, and children by means of [[Sexual violence|Sexual]] and [[Domestic violence|Gender-Based Violence]] (SGBV).The Gender Ministry first-quarter report of 2019<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://apanews.net/en/news/liberia-records-over-700-sgbv-cases-from-january-to-march-2019|title=Liberia records over 700 SGBV cases from January to March 2019|last=APANEWS|website=apanews.net|language=en|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> estimated that over 800 SGBV cases were recorded between January to March of 2019, showing the depth and significant magnitude of the state of affairs, consequently demanding urgent attention.
A focus on Liberia's post war [[Sexual violence|Sexual]] and [[Domestic violence|Gender-Based Violence]] (SGBV) is undertaken by the governemt and the Office of the First Lady.The Gender Ministry of Liberia first-quarter report of 2019<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://apanews.net/en/news/liberia-records-over-700-sgbv-cases-from-january-to-march-2019|title=Liberia records over 700 SGBV cases from January to March 2019|last=APANEWS|website=apanews.net|language=en|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> estimated that over 800 SGBV cases were recorded between January to March of 2019, showing the depth and significant magnitude of the state of affairs, consequently demanding urgent attention.


=== Establishment of Clar Hope Foundation<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2press.php?news_id=4539&related=47&pg=sp&sub=138|title=First Lady Weah Launches Clar Hope Foundation|website=www.emansion.gov.lr|access-date=2020-02-25}}</ref>===
=== Establishment of Clar Hope Foundation ===
[[File:Clar Hope foundation.png|thumb|211x211px]]
[[File:Clar Hope foundation.png|thumb|211x211px]]
In 2018, the “Clar Hope Foundation”<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2press.php?news_id=4539&related=47&pg=sp&sub=138|title=First Lady Weah Launches Clar Hope Foundation|website=www.emansion.gov.lr|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>was founded by Weah, as a non-political initiative, aimed at creating an equitable society in Liberia, by restoring hope to disadvantaged children, youth and women through the four pillars of:
In 2018, the “Clar Hope Foundation”<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.emansion.gov.lr/2press.php?news_id=4539&related=47&pg=sp&sub=138|title=First Lady Weah Launches Clar Hope Foundation|website=www.emansion.gov.lr|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>was founded , as a non-political initiative, aimed at creating an equitable society in Liberia, by restoring hope to disadvantaged children, youth and women through the four pillars of:


'''1.     Education'''
'''1.     Education'''
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'''4.     Gender Equality'''
'''4.     Gender Equality'''


The '''Clar Hope Foundation''' was founded through the merger of innovative solutions for sustainable development.  The Foundation’s priority is based on delivering essential emergency healthcare as a universal and constitutional health-right to every Liberian citizen.This approach draws on global and national partnerships between High-Level Policy Makers, CEOs, Leaders, Managers, Politicians, Faith-Based Organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations, Civil Society and the wider United Nations Agencies.
The '''Clar Hope Foundation''' was founded through the merger of sustainable development solutions. The Foundation’s priority are based on delivering essential emergency healthcare as a universal and constitutional health-right to every Liberian citizen.This approach draws on global and national partnerships between High-Level Policy Makers, CEOs, Leaders, Managers, Politicians, Faith-Based Organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations, Civil Society and the wider United Nations Agencies.


The Clar Hope Foundation's vision aims at '''“Delivering, Innovating and Investing”''' in the following agendas;
The Clar Hope Foundation's vision aims at '''“Delivering, Innovating and Investing”''' in the following agendas;
Line 72: Line 72:
===She's You Movement===
===She's You Movement===


On June 20<sup>th</sup>, 2019, Weah launched her flagship program, the '''She’s You Movement<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.liberianobserver.com/news/west-african-first-ladies-here-for-clar-weahs-shes-you-launch/|title=West African First Ladies Here for Clar Weah’s “She’s You” Launch|last=Worzi|first=Alvin|date=2019-06-20|website=Liberian Observer|language=en-US|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>''' an initiative aimed at advancing [[gender equality]] through the promotion of women’s empowerment and fight to end all forms of violence and detrimental practices against women, girls and children. The She’s You Movement objectives are to create a conducive environment for women and girls to live free of violence, rape, gender inequalities, allowing them to reach their full potential. In pursuit of this goal, the movement seeks to reduce infant and maternal mortality causes and rates.
The '''She’s You Movement<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.liberianobserver.com/news/west-african-first-ladies-here-for-clar-weahs-shes-you-launch/|title=West African First Ladies Here for Clar Weah’s “She’s You” Launch|last=Worzi|first=Alvin|date=2019-06-20|website=Liberian Observer|language=en-US|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>''' is , part of the humanitarian agenda of the Office of the First Lady <ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.faapa.info/blog/pres-weah-not-surprised-by-first-lady-clars-anti-sgbv-efforts/|title=Launch of She's you Movement|last=|first=|date=|website=|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=}}</ref>and launched as its flagship program, the initiative is aimed at advancing [[gender equality]] through the promotion of women’s empowerment and fight to end all forms of violence and detrimental practices against women, girls and children. The She’s You Movement objectives are to create a conducive environment for women and girls to live free of violence, rape, gender inequalities, allowing them to reach their full potential. In pursuit of this goal, the movement seeks to reduce infant and maternal mortality causes and rates.


The '''She’s You Movement''' is based on seven pillars:
The '''She’s You Movement''' is based on seven pillars:
Line 93: Line 93:


=== Renovation of Orphanages ===
=== Renovation of Orphanages ===
Ensuring that orphans have adequate food and better living conditions are fundamental in improving their life trajectories and quality of life. Consequently, these were the first of many interventions by the First Lady<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bushchicken.com/first-lady-inspects-humanitarian-projects-in-grand-bassa/|title=First Lady Inspects Humanitarian Projects in Grand Bassa|language=en-US|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref>, Weah, since assuming office. At least eight orphanages in [[Montserrado County]] and [[Grand Bassa County]] have been fully renovated. The projects included replacing makeshift structures with decent and durable residential facilities.
Ensuring that orphans have adequate food and better living conditions are fundamental in improving their quality of life<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bushchicken.com/first-lady-inspects-humanitarian-projects-in-grand-bassa/|title=First Lady Inspects Humanitarian Projects in Grand Bassa|language=en-US|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref>, since assuming office at least eight orphanages in [[Montserrado County]] and [[Grand Bassa County]] have been fully renovated. The projects included replacing makeshift structures with decent and durable residential facilities.


=== Feeding of the Elderly Program ===
=== Feeding of the Elderly Program ===
On the last Thursday of each month, over 2,000 people of the elderly population receive care packages of rationed food to boost their nutrition. The feeding program<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/2016news/first-lady-weah-announces-monthly-feeding-initiative-for-the-elderly/|title=First Lady Weah Announces Monthly Feeding Initiative for the Elderly|website=FrontPageAfrica|language=en|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref> was launched in April 2018 with the aim of restoring the dignity of the elderly whilst increasing levels of social inclusion, engagement and participation. The program has distributed nearly fifty-thousand packaged foods since its initial launching.
On the last Thursday of each month, over 2,000 people of the elderly population receive care packages of rationed food to boost their nutrition. The feeding program<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/2016news/first-lady-weah-announces-monthly-feeding-initiative-for-the-elderly/|title=First Lady Weah Announces Monthly Feeding Initiative for the Elderly|website=FrontPageAfrica|language=en|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref> was launched in April 2018 with the aim of assisting the elderly whilst increasing levels of social inclusion, engagement and participation. The program has distributed nearly fifty-thousand packaged foods since its initial launching.


===Construction of Home for the Disabled and Elderly===
===Construction of Home for the Disabled and Elderly===
A thirty- bedroom residential facility, to accommodate the physically challenged and the elderly is on the verge of completion. The home currently being constructed in [[Grand Bassa County|Buchanan, Grand Bassa County]] was initiated by Weah, through her charity, the Clar Hope Foundation in response to the deplorable conditions and inadequate care that the elderly and the physically challenged are faced with. The plan for this project is not only to construct a modern home, but to additionally operate the home, providing essential services, thus ensuring a decent life for the beneficiaries.
A thirty- bedroom residential facility, to accommodate the physically challenged and the elderly is on the verge of completion. The home currently being constructed in [[Grand Bassa County|Buchanan, Grand Bassa County]] was initiated by Clar Weah, through her charity, the Clar Hope Foundation in response to the poor conditions and inadequate care that the elderly and the physically challenged are faced with. This project aim is to construct a modern home, operate the home, providing essential services, thus ensuring a decent life for the beneficiaries.


=== Construction of Clar Hope City ===
=== Construction of Hope City ===
The construction of the Clar Hope City,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://elbcradio.com/2020/01/30/clar-city-of-hope-nearing-completion/|title=Clar City of Hope nearing completion {{!}} Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS)|last=jr|first=Maximilian K. Kasseh|language=en-US|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref> which has already been launched in Marshall will comprise of dormitories, vocational and academic centres as well as rehabilitation and recreational areas. The Clar Hope City, sets out to be a refuge and rehab centre for hundreds of Liberia’s socially excluded or marginalised young people. The principal objective is to provide practical and sustainable solutions in building the youth’s skills-set for employability purposes. Additionally, the Clar Hope City aims to address underlying barriers and challenges to success faced by the youth.
The construction of Hope City,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://elbcradio.com/2020/01/30/clar-city-of-hope-nearing-completion/|title=Clar City of Hope nearing completion {{!}} Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS)|last=jr|first=Maximilian K. Kasseh|language=en-US|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref> which has already been launched in [[Marshall, Liberia|Marshall]] will comprise of dormitories, vocational and academic centres as well as rehabilitation and recreational areas. Hope City, sets out to be a refuge and rehab centre for hundreds of Liberia’s socially excluded or marginalised young people. The principal objective is to provide practical and sustainable solutions in building the youth’s skills-set for employability purposes.


=== First Lady's Girl Child Empowerment Initiative ===
=== First Lady's Girl Child Empowerment Initiative ===
Following the First Lady’s visit to the Henan Ruimei Hair Products CO., LTD; a large hair products factory in Xuchang, Henan, China for the Summit of China-Africa Cooperation on July 2018, the Clar Hope Foundation reached an agreement with the company to train 30 Liberian young women in hair production<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/liberia-beneficiaries-of-first-lady-girls-empowerment-program-end-industrial-hair-production-training-in-china/|title=Liberia: Beneficiaries of First Lady Girls’ Empowerment Program End Industrial Hair Production Training in China|website=FrontPageAfrica|language=en|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref> at their factory for the period of 3-4 weeks. The girls returned in August after successful completion of the training and will be employed by the company in Liberia. This intervention is part of her Girl child Empowerment Initiative<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/first-lady-weah-unveils-plans-to-educate-200-girls/|title=First Lady Weah Unveils Plans to Educate 200 Girls|website=FrontPageAfrica|language=en|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref> to promote female empowerment and gender equality through bolstering financial independence, as well as, contributing to increasing the nation's [[Gross domestic product|Gross Domestic Product]] and [[Human capital|Human Capital Development]]. The products from the company will also be exported to other countries in the sub-region.
Following her visit to the Henan Ruimei Hair Products CO., LTD; a large hair products factory in Xuchang, Henan, China for the Summit of China-Africa Cooperation on July 2018, the Clar Hope Foundation reached an agreement with the company to train 30 Liberian young women in hair production<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/liberia-beneficiaries-of-first-lady-girls-empowerment-program-end-industrial-hair-production-training-in-china/|title=Liberia: Beneficiaries of First Lady Girls’ Empowerment Program End Industrial Hair Production Training in China|website=FrontPageAfrica|language=en|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref> at their factory for the period of 3-4 weeks. The girls returned in August after successful completion of the training and will be employed by the company in Liberia. This intervention is part of her Girl child Empowerment Initiative<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/first-lady-weah-unveils-plans-to-educate-200-girls/|title=First Lady Weah Unveils Plans to Educate 200 Girls|website=FrontPageAfrica|language=en|access-date=2020-02-07}}</ref> to promote female empowerment and gender equality through bolstering financial independence, as well as, contributing to increasing the nation's [[Gross domestic product|Gross Domestic Product]] and [[Human capital|Human Capital Development]]. The products from the company will also be exported to other countries in the sub-region.


== Future Projects ==
== Future Projects ==
Line 117: Line 117:


==Honours==
==Honours==
Weah was appointed in March 2018, at a Women Symposium in Morocco, Ambassador and Champion for Women’s Football<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.africatopsports.com/2018/03/06/caf-femme-de-george-weah-nommee-ambassadrice-football-feminin/|title=CAF: la femme de George Weah nommée ambassadrice du football féminin|last=http://www.africatopsports.com|first=Publié par Steven LAVON pour Africa Top Sports Rédacteur en chef à Africa Top Sports Premier portail sportif Africain|date=2018-03-06|website=Africa Top Sports|language=fr-FR|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>, by the [[Confederation of African Football]].
Clar Weah was appointed in March 2018, at a Women Symposium in Morocco, Ambassador and Champion for Women’s Football<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.africatopsports.com/2018/03/06/caf-femme-de-george-weah-nommee-ambassadrice-football-feminin/|title=CAF: la femme de George Weah nommée ambassadrice du football féminin|last=http://www.africatopsports.com|first=Publié par Steven LAVON pour Africa Top Sports Rédacteur en chef à Africa Top Sports Premier portail sportif Africain|date=2018-03-06|website=Africa Top Sports|language=fr-FR|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>, by the [[Confederation of African Football]].


==References==
==References==

Revision as of 15:40, 25 February 2020

  • Comment: Early Life and Career section has no sources, Marriage and Children section has no sources, Office of the First Lady 2018- Present section, has no sources, and the whole tone of the draft is promotional in nature. Theroadislong (talk) 17:39, 24 February 2020 (UTC)
  • Comment: Thank you for writing this draft! However it still needs inline citations - all the statements should be verifiable. MurielMary (talk) 10:20, 13 February 2020 (UTC)
Clar Marie Weah
File:IMG-20200203-WA0000 (1).jpg
First Lady of the Republic of Liberia Clar Weah
Born
Clar Marie Duncan

11 March 1965
Kingston Jamaica
NationalityLiberian
OccupationFirst Lady
Years active2018-Present
SpouseGeorge Manneh Weah (m. 1993)
ChildrenMartha Weah, George Weah Jr, Timothy Weah

Clar Marie Duncan Weah (née Duncan; born March 11, 1965) is a businesswoman, philanthropist, advocate and the current First Lady of the Republic of Liberia . She is the wife of.George Manneh Weah[1], the 25th President of the Republic of Liberia, who has been in office as of 2018. She established the Clar Hope Foundation in 2018, which aims to address and alleviate the challenges faced by the underprivileged and often marginalised people in the Liberian society. Aside from working to respond to the adversities faced by the elderly, orphaned and disabled; she also advocates for women rigts in particular for victims of rape or sexual abuse. Through various thematic programs for the protection and empowerment of women the “She’s You Movement[2]” was launched, a program which aims to improve the lives of women in Liberia.

Biography

Early Life and Career

She was born[3] in Kingston, Jamaica, the youngest of seven children. In her early youth, she migrated along with her family, to the United States of America. In the United States, Weah attended the University of New York and earned her nursing license and a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. She launched her career working as a customer service representative in New York at both Citibank and Chase Manhattan Bank, during which time she in conjunction managed small businesses.

She moved back to Jamaica to pursue her nursing career. During her nursing career, she worked at a local hospital, where she led programs for underprivileged children, including those in children homes.

Marriage and Children

She met George Weah, at that time a soccer star, in the early 90's at Chase Manhattan's Bank in New York, where she was serving as a customer service representative[4]. They married on June 26th, 1993[5], and have three children- Martha Weah, George Jr Weah and Timothy Weah. Their sons are international football players.

Office of the First Lady 2018- Present

Following the election of her husband as the 25th President of Liberia[6], Clar started her role as the First Lady of the Republic of Liberia,[7] developing programs and social projects that encompass services targeting the assistance for orphans, street children, the elderly, women and girls; with a focus on rural settings. The objectives outlined in the social programs are:

  •        To improve the living and working conditions of both urban and rural women
  •        To promote the financial independence of rural women through agriculture
  •        To rehabilitate, educate and train urban youths.
  •        To empower the women of Liberia .

Humanitarian Activism

A focus on Liberia's post war Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) is undertaken by the governemt and the Office of the First Lady.The Gender Ministry of Liberia first-quarter report of 2019[8] estimated that over 800 SGBV cases were recorded between January to March of 2019, showing the depth and significant magnitude of the state of affairs, consequently demanding urgent attention.

Establishment of Clar Hope Foundation[9]

In 2018, the “Clar Hope Foundation”[10]was founded , as a non-political initiative, aimed at creating an equitable society in Liberia, by restoring hope to disadvantaged children, youth and women through the four pillars of:

1.     Education

2.     Health

3.     Economic Empowerment

4.     Gender Equality

The Clar Hope Foundation was founded through the merger of sustainable development solutions. The Foundation’s priority are based on delivering essential emergency healthcare as a universal and constitutional health-right to every Liberian citizen.This approach draws on global and national partnerships between High-Level Policy Makers, CEOs, Leaders, Managers, Politicians, Faith-Based Organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations, Civil Society and the wider United Nations Agencies.

The Clar Hope Foundation's vision aims at “Delivering, Innovating and Investing” in the following agendas;

  • Primary Health Care.
  • Maternity and Infant Care Units.
  • Mobile Clinics for Pregnant Women (Predominantly in Rural Areas).
  • General Emergency Services that Need Ambulances.
  • Food Banks and Feeding of the Elderly.
  • School Feeding Programs.
  • Disabled School Children Bus Services.
  • Girl Child Empowerment Initiative Programs and Career Development.
  • Building and Renovation of Orphanage Schools Across the Country.
  • Construction of Housing for the Disabled, Aged and the Underprivileged.
  • Construction of the City of Hope for Skills Training and Acquisition of Vocation.

She's You Movement

The She’s You Movement[11] is , part of the humanitarian agenda of the Office of the First Lady [12]and launched as its flagship program, the initiative is aimed at advancing gender equality through the promotion of women’s empowerment and fight to end all forms of violence and detrimental practices against women, girls and children. The She’s You Movement objectives are to create a conducive environment for women and girls to live free of violence, rape, gender inequalities, allowing them to reach their full potential. In pursuit of this goal, the movement seeks to reduce infant and maternal mortality causes and rates.

The She’s You Movement is based on seven pillars:

1.     Ending Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

2.     Ending Child Marriage and other harmful traditional practices

3.     Ending Mother to Child Transmission of HIV/AIDS

4.     Reducing Maternal and Infant Mortality

5.     Promoting Women Empowerment through Entrepreneurship and Education

6.     Promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights

7.     Providing Quality Education and Skills Training for Girls  

Ongoing Projects and Achievements

Renovation of Orphanages

Ensuring that orphans have adequate food and better living conditions are fundamental in improving their quality of life[13], since assuming office at least eight orphanages in Montserrado County and Grand Bassa County have been fully renovated. The projects included replacing makeshift structures with decent and durable residential facilities.

Feeding of the Elderly Program

On the last Thursday of each month, over 2,000 people of the elderly population receive care packages of rationed food to boost their nutrition. The feeding program[14] was launched in April 2018 with the aim of assisting the elderly whilst increasing levels of social inclusion, engagement and participation. The program has distributed nearly fifty-thousand packaged foods since its initial launching.

Construction of Home for the Disabled and Elderly

A thirty- bedroom residential facility, to accommodate the physically challenged and the elderly is on the verge of completion. The home currently being constructed in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County was initiated by Clar Weah, through her charity, the Clar Hope Foundation in response to the poor conditions and inadequate care that the elderly and the physically challenged are faced with. This project aim is to construct a modern home, operate the home, providing essential services, thus ensuring a decent life for the beneficiaries.

Construction of Hope City

The construction of Hope City,[15] which has already been launched in Marshall will comprise of dormitories, vocational and academic centres as well as rehabilitation and recreational areas. Hope City, sets out to be a refuge and rehab centre for hundreds of Liberia’s socially excluded or marginalised young people. The principal objective is to provide practical and sustainable solutions in building the youth’s skills-set for employability purposes.

First Lady's Girl Child Empowerment Initiative

Following her visit to the Henan Ruimei Hair Products CO., LTD; a large hair products factory in Xuchang, Henan, China for the Summit of China-Africa Cooperation on July 2018, the Clar Hope Foundation reached an agreement with the company to train 30 Liberian young women in hair production[16] at their factory for the period of 3-4 weeks. The girls returned in August after successful completion of the training and will be employed by the company in Liberia. This intervention is part of her Girl child Empowerment Initiative[17] to promote female empowerment and gender equality through bolstering financial independence, as well as, contributing to increasing the nation's Gross Domestic Product and Human Capital Development. The products from the company will also be exported to other countries in the sub-region.

Future Projects

o  The construction of a modern maternal and infant hospital in order to aid reduction of maternal and infant mortality causes and rates.

o  Building a school for the less fortunate children[18]

o  Launching of the First Lady's School feeding program, in addition to, a farming project for and by women that will generate funds.

o  Provision of mobile clinics to assist women living in remote areas to access quality Antenatal/Postnatal Care Services to further aid in reducing maternal and infant mortality.

Honours

Clar Weah was appointed in March 2018, at a Women Symposium in Morocco, Ambassador and Champion for Women’s Football[19], by the Confederation of African Football.

References

  1. ^ "The Executive Mansion". www.emansion.gov.lr. Retrieved 2020-02-25.
  2. ^ "WEAH'S SPEECH AT LAUNCH OF 'SHE'S YOU' MOVEMENT".{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link)
  3. ^ "Jamaica Observer Limited". Jamaica Observer. Retrieved 2020-02-24.
  4. ^ "COME LET'S MEET THE FIRST LADY OF LIBERIA: Mrs. CLAR MARIE DUNCAN WEAH". www.linkedin.com. Retrieved 2020-02-25.
  5. ^ "PHOTOS: Liberian President, George Weah Celebrates 27th Marriage Anniversary With Wife, Clar Weah". GhanaCelebrities.Com. 2019-06-26. Retrieved 2020-02-25.
  6. ^ "The Executive Mansion". www.emansion.gov.lr. Retrieved 2020-02-25.
  7. ^ "The Executive Mansion". www.emansion.gov.lr. Retrieved 2020-02-24.
  8. ^ APANEWS. "Liberia records over 700 SGBV cases from January to March 2019". apanews.net. Retrieved 2020-02-04.
  9. ^ "First Lady Weah Launches Clar Hope Foundation". www.emansion.gov.lr. Retrieved 2020-02-25.
  10. ^ "First Lady Weah Launches Clar Hope Foundation". www.emansion.gov.lr. Retrieved 2020-02-04.
  11. ^ Worzi, Alvin (2019-06-20). "West African First Ladies Here for Clar Weah's "She's You" Launch". Liberian Observer. Retrieved 2020-02-04.
  12. ^ "Launch of She's you Movement".{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link)
  13. ^ "First Lady Inspects Humanitarian Projects in Grand Bassa". Retrieved 2020-02-07.
  14. ^ "First Lady Weah Announces Monthly Feeding Initiative for the Elderly". FrontPageAfrica. Retrieved 2020-02-07.
  15. ^ jr, Maximilian K. Kasseh. "Clar City of Hope nearing completion | Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS)". Retrieved 2020-02-07.
  16. ^ "Liberia: Beneficiaries of First Lady Girls' Empowerment Program End Industrial Hair Production Training in China". FrontPageAfrica. Retrieved 2020-02-07.
  17. ^ "First Lady Weah Unveils Plans to Educate 200 Girls". FrontPageAfrica. Retrieved 2020-02-07.
  18. ^ "Liberia: First Lady Weah Runs to the Rescue of Rural Children Schools in Difficult Condition". FrontPageAfrica. Retrieved 2020-02-04.
  19. ^ http://www.africatopsports.com, Publié par Steven LAVON pour Africa Top Sports Rédacteur en chef à Africa Top Sports Premier portail sportif Africain (2018-03-06). "CAF: la femme de George Weah nommée ambassadrice du football féminin". Africa Top Sports (in French). Retrieved 2020-02-04. {{cite web}}: External link in |last= (help)
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