By Jamesetta D Williams
Vice President Jeremiah Kpan-Koung has been selected as guest speaker at ceremonies marking the 16th Edition of Golden Image Award – Liberia’s styled Oscar Award dedicated to celebrating excellence, patriotism, and individuals who have made meaningful contributions to Liberia and the world.
The stage is set for the 16th edition of the Golden Image Award, according to the Executive Director of the Liberia Crusaders for Peace Ambassador Juli Endee, Innovator and Organizer of the Golden Image Award, with dozens of national and international guests expected to grace the red-lettered and inspiring event.
At Tuesday’s Ministry of Information Regular Press Briefing, Amb. Endee reflected on the establishment of the Golden Image Award 16 years ago during the administration of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf after the Liberia Crusaders for Peace submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Internal Affairs seeking support for a national recognition program.
She explained that the initiative was later embraced and became an important feature of Liberia’s Independence Day celebrations, growing over the years into a major platform for recognizing leaders, professionals, cultural icons, institutions, and ordinary citizens whose contributions have impacted society.
“The Golden Image Award is about culture, service, excellence, and recognizing people who have contributed to the advancement of Liberia and humanity,” Amb. Endee said, emphasizing that the program is not politically motivated but rather focuses on merit and positive contributions.
She disclosed that the 2026 edition of the award will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the Ministerial Complex in Monrovia, a change from the usual venue at the Monrovia City Hall due to the growing nature and scope of the event.
The ceremony, she noted, will include an award presentation at the theatre, followed by a formal ball in the ballroom, with special arrangements for Very Important Personalities (VIPs) and distinguished guests.
Amb. Endee announced that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. will serve as the convener of the 2026 Golden Image Award, while Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung will deliver the keynote address.
She added that several senior government officials and dignitaries are expected to attend, including members of the National Legislature, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Cabinet members, and other government officials.
The National Tourism Authority, under the leadership of Hon. Princess Turkol Cooper, will serve as the Guest of Honor for this year’s celebration.
The Liberia Crusaders for Peace Executive Director also highlighted the support of various government institutions and partners, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs, General Services Agency, Ministry of Information, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Monrovia City Corporation, Liberia Telecommunications Authority, National Tourism Authority, and other stakeholders.
She further revealed that international organizations and award institutions, including Hollywood Awards, African Intercontinental Awards, Women of Worth Africa, and the United Liberian Association of the Americas, will participate in the 2026 celebration.
Amb. Endee said the nomination process for the Golden Image Award begins every October, allowing individuals, institutions, and organizations to submit nominees for consideration. She explained that nominees undergo a thorough vetting process before final selections are made.
This year’s award ceremony is expected to attract participants from several countries, including the United States, Barbados, Grenada, Japan, Vietnam, the United Arab Emirates, Serbia, the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Ghana, Guinea, The Gambia, and Sierra Leone.
Over the years, the Golden Image Award has honored several internationally recognized personalities and institutions, including former South African President Nelson Mandela and former Ghanaian President Jerry Rawlings, alongside Liberian citizens who have contributed to national development in areas such as culture, education, business, leadership, and community service.
For the 2026 edition, Amb. Endee said organizers will introduce new features aimed at promoting Liberia’s cultural identity, including renewed cultural presentations, traditional performances, new regalia, music, dance, and storytelling.
She added that special recognition will be given to women, market women, traditional leaders, young people, business leaders, and community advocates who continue to make positive contributions to society.
The event will also introduce a film sector award for the first time, recognizing achievements within Liberia’s growing creative industry.
Amb. Endee encouraged Liberians at home and abroad to support the celebration, saying the Golden Image Award remains a symbol of national pride, unity, and appreciation for individuals who continue to make Liberia and the world a better place.
Every Liberian who contributes positively to society deserves recognition,” she said. “The Golden Image Award celebrates those contributions regardless of background or beliefs.”
She thanked the Ministry of Information, particularly Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, the Deputy Minister, the Acting Minister of Youth and Sports, and the Director General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) for providing her the opportunity to update the public on the upcoming event.
She began her remarks by paying tribute to the late Hon. Monopolon Youngblood, one of the winners of the GIA who passed away while traveling to South Africa to attend an award ceremony, calling for a moment of silence in his memory.
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