La Princess Fashion Academy Graduates 15, Igniting Liberia's Fashion Renaissance

La Princess Fashion Academy, Liberia’s premier fashion design institution, has celebrated the graduation of fifteen talented fashion designers, marking a significant milestone for the school established nearly two years ago.

The event, held at the Bella Casa Hotel in Sinkor Monrovia on Saturday, March 23, marked the school’s first commencement convocation. The ceremony saw outstanding students recognized with special awards.

Former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor, who served as keynote speaker at the occasion, commended the academy for its commitment to empowering young women and driving positive change in Liberia's fashion industry.

She expressed her profound admiration for the institute's dedication to empowering young women and advancing Liberia's socio-economic landscape.

Taylor emphasized the significance of education and skill development in fostering national development, stressing that "what builds nations is the middle class."

She lauded the graduates for their exemplary performances, highlighting their potential to contribute to Liberia's growth and prosperity.

“To the graduates, thank you for stepping forward,” she added. “What builds nations is the middle class. We may have some rich people, but we also have a lot of poor people. But when you learn something with your hands, with your heart, and with your soul, you will die with it because it is something that no one can take from you,” she said.

Drawing parallels with successful fashion industries in neighboring countries, Taylor underscored Liberia's abundant talent and resilience, urging the graduates to harness their creativity and passion to become ambassadors of Liberian fashion on the global stage.

She encouraged the graduates to pursue their dreams fervently, reminding them that true fulfillment comes from aligning one's vocation with their innate talents and aspirations.

She urged the graduates not to squander the gifts they had received, but to nurture them and strive for excellence in their endeavors.

Taylor extended her gratitude to the academy's sponsors, mentors, and supporters, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping the future of Liberia through education and skill development.

“To the sponsors, husbands, friends, and those who encouraged the graduates, we want to thank you for making sure that they have become the best and brightest,” she said while urging the graduates to seize opportunities, overcome challenges, and make a meaningful impact in their respective fields.

The former VP also commended the founder and Executive Director of LPFA), Princess Pratt, for her unwavering commitment to uplifting Liberia and putting it on the global map.

“Princess, thank you for not forgetting that Liberia is at the place where we need to move forward, and thank you for putting Liberia on the map,” she said. “The first time I spoke to her, she was excited about this project, and my only prayer was that God would make it succeed. Thank God today, after about a year and a half, we have the first set of graduates. I know this is just the beginning of greater things to come.”

She expressed optimism about the academy's future endeavors, envisioning a vibrant fashion industry that would showcase Liberia's cultural richness and creativity.

Ms. Pratt, in her remarks, emphasized the importance of education and skill development in national development. She noted that the most effective way to combat poverty is through empowerment.

Though the idea of establishing the school was conceived while on a training mission in Nigeria, Pratt believes that it was a divine plan of God to establish the school to support Liberians who are not opportune to travel abroad for such training.

The academy's mission to empower women and showcase Liberian fashion globally was highlighted, as they aim to elevate local talent and enhance the country's cultural richness. The ceremony concluded with optimism and hope for a brighter future in the fashion industry and beyond.

“At LPFA, we have both national and international trainers. But more importantly, we have been able to groom local talents to expand our teaching staff,” she explained.

She disclosed that fashion requires discipline, mental focus, calculations, and, most importantly, inspiration.

Meanwhile, the graduates were praised for their potential to contribute to Liberia's growth and prosperity, with Taylor urging them to pursue their dreams with determination.

Five students received a special award, including Angeline, who was awarded as the most delegated student. Amanita, the most compassionate student; Joeline, the most consistent student; Florence B. Johnson, the most improved student; and Ms. Roca George received the first LPFA Star Girl Award.

The ceremony concluded on a note of celebration and optimism, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the journey toward a brighter future for Liberia and its talented young women.