Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, invited guests and dignitaries. Welcome to history in the making.

History in the making because for the first time in the history of the Union of Liberian Organisations in the UK, there are not one but two women heading the organisation 

We have been talking too much for too long, now is the time for action and action in unity.

I am a woman of very little words but God knows that when I take on a challenge I see it through to the best of my ability. For that reason, it is an honour to be given this opportunity to serve my people, my communities and above all my country as a chairlady of ULOUK.

Most importantly, I am privileged to have a fantastic team of officials (Mrs Lena Marshall – Vice Chair-Lady, Mr Fidel C T Budy – Secretary General, Mr Albert Bryant – Treasurer, Mr Obe Quoi, Mrs Jamesetta Taylor and Mr Tom Zulu Members. Mr Anthony Tweh, Pastor Akoi Bazzie and Mr Joe Hena AGM Officials Elect) who are ready to take on this challenge with me and together we will to take this organisation to the next level soon and very soon.

On the other hand, we can only be successful with the full support of the entire Liberian community and friends of Liberia. There is so much to be done. The tasks seem enormous but I would like to remind you all tonight that every journey begins with the first step. Consequently,   every little support from you worth a gold to an underprivileged child, family and community in Liberia

One of my favourite quotes from the First Lady of the United States of America, (Michelle Obama)

“You might have to ruffle a few feathers and folks who might not always like what you have to say. And there will be times, when you’ll get frustrated or discouraged. But whenever I start to feel that way, I like to take a step back and remind myself of all the progress I’ve seen in my short lifetime.”

It is my greatest desire to see our community rise to the challenge of being unified and hardworking. 

Time is precious so let us not waste it. This is a huge commitment and sacrifice on our part. So please do not let us down.

During the last 10 months we in the diaspora have been caught up in the fight against Ebola in our homeland. It was such a relief on 9 May to hear our beloved Liberia was declared free of Ebola. 

The burdens this disease put on all of us have not been easy to carry but we are forever grateful to all the countries, charities and individuals who have helped us to successfully win the fight against this disease. 

We take a moment to remember all those who lost their lives during the epidemic. We also remember two of the organisations’ strong supporters and founding members who passed away recently – Mr Van Richards and Mr Alfred Kennedy. May their souls and the souls of others who’ve departed this world rest in perpetual peace

On behalf of the team and me, we would like to thank you all for taking time out of your busy lives to join us here tonight. 

A special thanks to our foreign guests for traveling all the way to the UK to show their support. God bless Liberia and peace to all Liberians -Enjoy the rest of the evening and thank you once again.

This speech was delivered on May 30 by Mrs Evelyn Duke-DeShield when she was installed as chairlady of the Union of Liberian Organizations in the United Kingdom