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MinneapoliMedia Community Interviews
Guest: Beyan Flomo Pewee
Interviewer: Tom Akaolisa
Occasion: Liberia’s 178th Independence Day – July 26, 2025
“A Moment for Reflection, Unity, and Action”
Beyan Flomo Pewee on the Meaning of Liberia’s Independence Day
As Liberia commemorates its 178th Independence Day on July 26, 2025, MinneapoliMedia proudly highlights the voices shaping the nation’s future — from Monrovia’s bustling streets to the global Liberian diaspora. In this special edition of Community Interviews, Tom Akaolisa sits down with Mr. Beyan Flomo Pewee — a Liberian social entrepreneur, youth advocate, music executive, and Co-Founder and Chairman of Evergreen Africa Holdings.
A bold visionary in both business and culture, Mr. Pewee has emerged as a leading force behind sustainable economic development, youth empowerment, and the revitalization of African identity through enterprise and music. As Liberians at home and abroad reflect on the country’s past, Mr. Pewee calls for renewed purpose, generational inclusion, and a future defined by creativity, self-determination, and unity.
The Interview
Tom Akaolisa: Mr. Pewee, thank you for joining us. What does Liberia’s Independence Day mean to you personally, and how has that meaning evolved over the years?
Beyan Flomo Pewee: Thank you so much for the opportunity. To me, Liberia’s Independence Day is more than just a celebration — it’s a reminder of the resilience of our people and our journey as Africa’s first republic. It’s a day to reflect on where we’ve come from, acknowledge our present challenges, and recommit to building a better Liberia. As a child, it meant parades and festivities. But today, as a leader and entrepreneur, it’s about purpose, responsibility, and nation-building.
Tom: As someone deeply invested in Africa’s development, how do you view Liberia’s economic progress since independence?
Beyan: Liberia has made notable strides, but there’s still a long road ahead. Our history — from civil conflict to health crises — has taken a toll. Still, we’re a country rich in natural resources and, more importantly, human capital. What we need now is visionary leadership, strong infrastructure, and real investment in education and entrepreneurship. Economic progress isn't just about GDP — it's about systems that empower every Liberian to thrive.
Tom: You work across music, youth empowerment, and business. How do these spheres align with your broader vision for a modern Liberia?
Beyan: They’re all connected by a shared mission: expanding opportunity. Music reinforces cultural pride and inspires change. Business drives job creation and self-sufficiency. Youth empowerment ensures we’re building leaders for tomorrow. Through Evergreen Africa Holdings, I strive to create platforms that give young Liberians the confidence, tools, and exposure to shape their own futures. A modern Liberia must embrace creativity, entrepreneurship, and the energy of its youth.
Beach of Robertsport, Liberia: Courtesy Getty Images
Tom: Looking ahead, what legacy should Liberia be building toward over the next 20 years?
Beyan: We must work toward a legacy of inclusive growth, peace, and global relevance. Liberia should be known not just for surviving hardship, but for becoming a regional leader in innovation and resilience. That means doubling down on education, healthcare, technology, and agriculture — while strengthening our institutions and cultivating transparency. The time has come to shift from a mindset of scarcity to one of abundance — in talent, resources, and potential.
Tom: Many young Liberians feel disconnected from political and economic systems. What can be done to bridge that divide?
Beyan: First, we must genuinely listen. Young people often feel excluded from decision-making spaces. We need to engage them not just during election cycles but continuously — through civic education, youth-focused policy, access to capital, and mentorship. Most importantly, we need to stop seeing them as liabilities and start seeing them as assets. When given a chance to lead, Liberian youth rise to the occasion. I’ve seen it time and time again.
Tom: How do Liberians in the diaspora uniquely contribute to national development?
Beyan: The diaspora is Liberia’s hidden superpower. We send remittances, start businesses, create jobs, and act as global ambassadors for our nation. Beyond money, we offer knowledge, technologies, and global networks that can help modernize Liberia. I always say: we are not spectators; we are stakeholders. We must stay connected, invest wisely, and whenever possible, return — even briefly — to share, serve, and build.
Tom: What role does music play in shaping Liberian identity and strengthening independence, particularly among youth?
Beyan: Music is one of Liberia’s most powerful cultural exports. It’s the heartbeat of our identity — telling stories of struggle, hope, and pride. For young people, music is a medium of empowerment and self-expression. It can inform, mobilize, and heal. Liberian artists are now gaining global attention, and that’s something to celebrate and invest in. Music is more than entertainment — it’s a soft power tool that reinforces our national spirit.
Beyan Flomo Pewee
Tom: Liberia has weathered many storms. What continues to give you hope?
Beyan: Our people. Every time I meet young Liberians — from students and artists to entrepreneurs — I’m reminded of our resilience and brilliance. Their hunger for progress inspires me. And the diaspora is also a source of hope — where Liberians are excelling in business, science, education, and more. Despite our challenges, we are a people who still believe in a better tomorrow. That belief is our greatest resource.
Tom: This Independence Day, what message would you like to share with Liberians around the world?
Beyan: Let’s not just celebrate — let’s reflect. Ask yourself: how can I help move Liberia forward? Whether it’s investing in a local project, mentoring a young person, or using your voice to advocate for positive change — your contribution matters. Liberia is ours. We must build it with unity, integrity, and a deep love for country. Happy Independence Day to every Liberian, wherever you may be.
Downtown street of Monrovia
Tom: Finally, what’s ahead for you and Evergreen Africa Holdings?
Beyan: We’re scaling up. Our vision is to build scalable, high-impact businesses that solve real problems and create real jobs across Africa. In Liberia, we’re focused on agriculture, entertainment, and youth development. I’m also developing a youth innovation fund to support emerging entrepreneurs. At Evergreen, we believe Africa’s future is not something we’re waiting for — it’s already here. We just need to unlock it.
Liberia’s Capitol Building with the Golden Dome, Monrovia
Closing Reflection
As Liberia enters its 178th year of independence, voices like Mr. Beyan Flomo Pewee’s remind us that the true work of freedom lies not in the past, but in the future we are brave enough to build. Whether through entrepreneurship, culture, or civic leadership, Mr. Pewee exemplifies a new generation of Liberians — visionary, purpose-driven, and ready to shape a Liberia defined not by its challenges, but by its limitless promise.
